Starbucks introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte in 2003. The drink was developed that year as Starbucks looked for a new autumn beverage to join seasonal successes such as the Peppermint Mocha and Eggnog Latte.
During development, Starbucks tested several flavor concepts, including chocolate, caramel, cinnamon, and pumpkin. The pumpkin version initially received mixed reactions, but its combination of espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin-pie spices, and whipped cream ultimately won approval. It became a limited-time fall offering and later one of the company’s most recognizable seasonal products.
The latte’s name can cause a small misconception: the original appeal came primarily from pumpkin-pie spice flavors such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, rather than from a strong pumpkin taste. Starbucks later expanded the product into iced versions, Frappuccino beverages, and other pumpkin-spice products. The abbreviation “PSL” became closely associated with the drink and was trademarked by Starbucks in 2015.