I get it. No, really I do, I’m the only person who has never had pumpkin spice anything, and because of this I’m absolutely missing out.
Apparently this is the time of year, where everyone except for me ditches their soy lattes and their mocha frap thingies in exchange for a pumpkin spiced cup of Joe. So where should you go? So, according to one of my Facebook friends, Melissa, who decided to get both and give her official opinion, it appears that the taste between the two coffees at Starbucks and Dunkin’ are pretty similar.
For the past 19 years Starbucks has offered it’s most revered iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte. Just in case you were wondering it’s espresso combined with steamed milk, nutmeg and cloves. Oh of course there’s some cinnamon as well. Wait I almost forgot that the main ingredient you know that extra umph, is none other than real pumpkin. The drink is topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice. If you’re in Florida like me, and this idea of cooler temperatures is just a hoax to sell well Pumpkin Spice Lattes, don’t worry you can get your java cold as well.
If that sounds good, but it’s not enough don’t worry. Dunkin’ has an entire pumpkin line up. Another Facebook friend (my hair stylist Vanessa) insists that the pumpkin muffin will change your life! Dunkin’ prides itself on their fall lineup. The Pumpkin Spice Latte maybe the star, but there are plenty of orange treats creating a buzz. There’s Dunkin’s glazed Pumpkin cake donut, Pumpkin MUNCHKINS , Donut Hole Treats, and Pumpkin Muffin, topped with a sweet streusel and white icing.
Just in case you were wondering this is how Dunkin’ describes it’s Pumpkin cold brew:
Sip bolder, fall harder; Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is back and better than ever! This prized pumpkin sip pairs slow-steeped, ultra-smooth cold brew with notes of brown sugar and warm fall spices. Topped with velvety-smooth pumpkin cream cold foam and a dusting of cinnamon sugar, this is smooth pumpkin sipping at its best.
But from what I understand Pumpkin Spice isn’t just a drink. It’s a lifestyle. Another friend, Susan, offered a recipe so that you can immerse yourself in pumpkin. Here’s what she does: A pumpkin potpourri. I’m sure with a drink in hand. Wanna try it?
She says you need a large pot of water. Cut up old or new apples(2 or 3)then you sprinkle cinnamon and pumpkin spice like 2 tablespoons of each. Bring it to a boil then let it simmer on low on the stove or low in a crock pot. Stir occasionally because spices settle on the bottom . Susan recommends using the same wooden spoon all season because it turns the spoon dark. She also uses the same pot all week. Add more water and ingredients as needed . It will mold if you don’t use it a day or two in a row…
Still not enough? Do you need something else to go with the muffin, the Pumpkin Spice Latte, and the aromas of your pumpkin spiced house?
Rebecca(yes, another Facebook friend) had this suggestion: Baked pumpkin with brown sugar and butter.
It all sounds good…maybe I’ll be a new convert. Did I forget anything? Do you have a favorite fall treat this time of year, let us know.