Every year, when the leaves begin to fall, Starbucks takes over the coffee industry with its fall menu. For many coffee lovers, this menu is as much a tradition as the pumpkin patch or watching football games. Ranging from the Pumpkin Spice Latte and the Apple Crisp Oat Milk Macchiato to things like the pumpkin cream cheese muffins, Starbucks knows how to make fall feel like something you can sip.
To me, the standout item on this fall menu is simple. The Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte.
At first glance, the Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte looks just like every other seasonal drink, topped with whipped cream and dusted with pumpkin spice seasoning. It is very aesthetic, and the kind of drink made to show off on social media platforms or to walk across campus with. Although the drink is very appealing to the eye, the real test comes with the very first sip.
The flavor is immediately sweet, and the pumpkin taste is very dominant. The chai is also present, just mixed under the layers of syrup. The mixing of the chai and pumpkin together creates a heavenly taste that no other coffee shop can accomplish.
The pumpkin and chai pairing does work in its own way. The warmth of the cardamom, cinnamon and clove blends perfectly with the pumpkin, creating a festive flavor that tastes like fall.
Another thing that is neat about this drink is that it can be served hot or cold. When hot, it is comforting but rich, best for a chilly day when you need a little boost of warmth. Iced, it is lighter, and the flavors are not as syrupy, which makes it easier to enjoy. In both versions, the Pumpkin Cream Chai is very assertive in the seasonal experience.
Like most of the fall menu, the Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte is priced the same as other specialty drinks. Starbucks offers three sizes: tall, grande and venti. A tall Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte costs $5.75, a grande costs $6.25 and a venti costs $6.75. The prices of a regular chai are $5.25 for a tall, $5.65 for a grande and $5.95 for a venti. This can be a mini splurge for people, but that’s also part of Starbucks’ fall ritual, trying new drinks while they last. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea (literally), but it is definitely worth a try.
Overall, the Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte fits right in with Starbucks’ seasonal lineup. It is festive, cozy and perfect for those who like sweets. For those who prefer their chai bold and spicy, it is smarter to stick to the original chai latte or the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte.
This drink is fun, aesthetic, tasty and worth trying. I would have to add this to my top two Starbucks drinks. Don’t wait to go try this drink – it is only here for the season.
I would rate this drink five out of five Loper stars.
