The Difference Between Dunkin' And Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte

The season of autumn may bring thoughts of colorful leaves, hot apple cider, and slices of pumpkin pie. But fall also comes with a slew of limited-time products and themed menu items — none of which are more renowned than the pumpkin spice latte. Invented over 20 years ago, this seasonal caffeinated beverage is known for its warmly spiced flavors, reminiscent of a classic pumpkin pie. But while Starbucks is widely credited for the popularization of this iconic autumnal coffee drink, a number of chains and independent coffee shops alike all feature their own versions of this fall latte on their menus. But what is the difference? Well, when it comes to Starbucks and Dunkin', the distinction between their pumpkin spice lattes comes down to the pumpkin itself (or lack thereof).

It should be noted that the original pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks did not initially contain any pumpkin. In fact, the latte's name came from the signature pumpkin spice blend used in pumpkin pies: a mix of warm spices most often including ingredients like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger. But, starting in 2015, the coffee chain announced its new and updated pumpkin spiced latte recipe would include real pumpkin purée. Meanwhile, Dunkin's pumpkin spice latte omits the pumpkin, but keeps those warm spices in its pumpkin-flavored syrup.

How do the pumpkin spice lattes from Starbucks and Dunkin' compare when both price and customer opinion are considered? Starting with Starbucks, the PSL is available in four different sizes: short (8 ounces, $6.15), tall (12 ounces, $6.25), grande (16 ounces, $6.75), and venti (20 ounces, $7.25). Meanwhile, Dunkin' only offers its pumpkin latte in three sizes, including small (10 ounces, $4.75), medium (14 ounces, $5.15), and large (20 ounces, $5.65). So, when it comes to price, it's clear that Dunkin' has the upper hand.

But what about taste? That is more debatable, as it really boils down to personal preference. "I love [Dunkin'] for everything except [its pumpkin spice latte,]" said one Reddit commenter. "That's literally the only thing I go to Starbucks for. [The Starbucks] espresso [tastes] burnt, and I think it goes well with the pumpkin sweetness! All other drinks though, I much prefer [Dunkin']. Try both though!"

"I tried both [the] pumpkin spice Frozen drink and Frappuccino from [Dunkin' and Starbucks, respectively]," another coffee fan said on Reddit. "Dunkin' Donuts has the better tasting pumpkin spice and it's not even close." So, whether you go with Starbucks' PSL or Dunkin's more affordable copycat, just know that the difference is in the ingredients. Pumpkin or no pumpkin, it's clear that this latte has a firm hold on fall culture in the United States. During your next stop at one of these chains, consider trying this fall-flavored drink — or, better yet, try making it at home with this Trader Joe's ingredient.