We don't need the weather to tell us what time of year it is. The unveiling of Starbucks' fall menu is the tell-tale sign. 

Though fall doesn't officially arrive on the scene until September 22, Starbucks is already declaring the change of the season with its fall menu and new/old lineup of favorite fall beverages.

It is time to start thinking about Halloween and Thanksgiving (my two favorite holidays). One of my best memories is taking the kids out to pick out our pumpkin -- but stopping by Starbucks first for a warm drink. Then we'd drive to the pumpkin patch or roadside stand, walk around with our Starbucks cups, and pick out our pumpkin. Of course, we repeat those steps when It’s time for the Christmas tree, but that’s a different time and a totally different set of drinks (think peppermint mocha and eggnog). I guess when I think about it, Starbucks has always been a very-present sidekick for all our great family memories!

Introducing the 2018 Starbucks Fall Menu

Nothing says fall like pumpkin spice, and Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte (or PSL) is a long-standing favorite. According to Starbucks, this is PSL's 15th appearance.

The Pumpkin Spice Latte starts with two shots of espresso (the strong stuff, or decaf), and then your choice of milk (dairy, almond, soy, or coconut), and a shot of Starbucks' pumpkin spice sauce, made with real pumpkin puree. It’s topped with whipped cream and sprinkled with a pumpkin spice mixture of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cove.

If you want something a little sweeter, and a little saltier, try the Salted Caramel Mocha. The hot version starts with espresso, milk, mocha, and toffee nut syrups, topped with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle. Add sprinkles of turbinado sugar and pink sea salt, and you have the ultimate fall drink. Not cold enough for a hot drink? "Fall up" your favorite frozen drink by ordering the Salted Caramel Mocha Frappuccino®.

Coffee Not Your Thing?

The Teavana Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte is a spicy tea with the same pumpkin spice syrup and flavoring as its coffee counterpart.

And, don’t forget the goodies. Starbucks offers an assortment of fall-themed pastries:

• Apple Cider Doughnut
• Pumpkin Scone
• Maple Pecan Muffin

Whatever you’re in the mood for, let Starbucks get you in the mood for fall.

How do you celebrate fall? What’s your favorite item on Starbucks' fall menu? Tell us in the comments below.

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