Every fall, grocery stores line their shelves with pumpkin spice-flavored products. The flavor is a mixture of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and occasionally allspice. The spice blend has long been a part of the American baking tradition. But how did pumpkin spice claim the spot as the unofficial flavor of fall? We will dive into the origins of pumpkin spice and its rise to popularity.
History Of Pumpkin Spice
One of the first records of the pumpkin spice combination being used in cooking dates to the 1600s when American settlers used it for pumpkin pies. Although various recipes called for “pumpkin pie spice,” a standardized blend didn’t appear until the 1930s, when spice manufacturing companies began offering pre-blended Pumpkin Pie Spice, simplifying baking for many.
The PSL Phenomenon
The Pumpkin Spice Latte or PSL, has become synonymous with the Fall Season. While it's unclear who the first person was to add pumpkin spice into a latte, Starbucks is often credited with popularizing it after launching the drink in 2003. Since then, it has become Starbucks’ most popular seasonal beverage, inspiring many other coffee shops to create their own version.
Why Do We Love It?
The rise of “Pumpkin Spice Season” can be largely attributed to the PSL sensation, but the real appeal is actually because of something happening in our brains. It’s not just the taste of pumpkin spice that people enjoy but rather the nostalgic aroma that it has. The area of the brain responsible for processing smells is linked to areas of the brain involved with emotion and memory processing. This explains why certain scents can evoke such vivid memories and feelings for people.
Our perception of taste goes hand in hand with smells. It all comes down to how you perceive fall and your memories of the season. When we experience pumpkin spice, it often recalls warm, happy memories of fall. Even if you find pumpkin spice overrated, or widespread use, there may still be a part of you that looks forward to trying the latest pumpkin spice product. For many, indulging in a pumpkin spice latte once a season has become a seasonal ritual.
Pumpkin Spice Treats to Enjoy
Today, pumpkin spice isn’t just limited to coffee and desserts; it’s found in everything from hummus to hard seltzer, and even deodorant. While some pumpkin spice products may be a little off the beaten path for many, here are classic pumpkin spice items to savor this fall:
- Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Pumpkin bread
- Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins
- Pumpkin Spice cheesecake
- Pumpkin Oreos/cookies
- Pumpkin Spice Donuts
- Pumpkin pie ice cream
- Pumpkin spice Cream Cheese Spread
- Pumpkin pie dip
- Pumpkin spice overnight oats
Pumpkin spice has evolved beyond a mere flavor, it embodies the essence of Autumn and the nostalgia of cozy moments. For many it has become a way to mark the changing of the seasons. Whether you adore it or prefer to criticize it, pumpkin spice has undoubtedly become a fall staple.