Fall is known for its staples: Halloween, apple picking, Thanksgiving, pumpkin carving, and one of the most popular seasonal flavors, pumpkin spice. First known as pumpkin pie spice, the iconic seasoning originated in the 1930s. However, it really gained traction starting in 2003, when Starbucks dropped the notorious Pumpkin Spice Latte on its fall menu. Since then, pumpkin spice flavoring has boomed in popularity, with an abundance of brands putting their spin on the signature flavor.
There are many reasons why the flavor is so popular: nostalgia, comforting scents associated with the fall season, and just overall love for the taste. While pumpkin spice holds a special place in many people’s hearts, some people wonder what makes it so significant. B-CC freshman Lucy Rice said, “I think pumpkin spice is popular because it’s specifically associated with the fall season, which gives people a cozy and nostalgic feeling.”
As autumn rolls around, pumpkin spice can be seen in just about every food staple you’re familiar with. From baked goods to drinks, candies to cookies, shelves in grocery stores are filled with the flavor starting around mid-September. Classic baked goods companies love to incorporate pumpkin spice into their products. To name a few, Nestle, Pilsbury, Betty Crocker, and more sell cookies, cakes, cinnamon rolls, and even mixes, allowing customers to incorporate the fall spice into their desserts and other treats. Other famous brands also love to add the seasoning to their products. Kellogg’s, Goldfish, Chobani, Starbucks, Snack Factory — the list goes on — all sell snacks with pumpkin spice incorporated to appeal to seasonal audiences. Junior Wren Stout shares her favorite fall-inspired treat, “I’ve been really into stroopwafels, and they’ve recently come out with a pumpkin spice stroopwaffle… They’re so good.”
But it doesn’t stop with food: pumpkin spice can be seen in many other aspects of people’s lives during the fall season. Candles, room fresheners, diffusers, body lotions, and perfumes are all fall-themed. Pumpkin spice is not just a flavor — it’s a lifestyle. The flavor, scent, and feelings associated with the spice have become tradition among millions of people, contributing to fall’s ever-growing popularity, warmth, and love today.
