Key Takeaways:

• U.S. consumers spend more than $800 million annually on pumpkin-flavored products.
• Pumpkin spice has spread far beyond the famous latte, finding its place in waffles, muffins, cakes, oatmeal, and more.
• Hungry for fall-flavored recipes? Find thousands of expert-tested (and tasted!) recipes from Allrecipes, EatingWell, Food & Wine, and other iconic food brands.

As the leaves start to turn a golden hue and the air carries that unmistakable crispness, one thing is certain: pumpkin spice season has arrived. This beloved autumn tradition isn’t just about a flavor — it’s about a feeling. Warm, cozy, and irresistibly nostalgic, pumpkin spice has earned its place as the unofficial scent and taste of fall. Personally, my favorite fall tradition is visiting our local farmstand, where fresh pumpkin spice donuts call my name. After that first bite, summer is officially in my rearview mirror.

More Than a Trend

The pumpkin-flavored product craze isn’t just a fad — it’s a powerhouse of seasonal spending. Each year, consumers in the U.S. spend more than $800 million on pumpkin-flavored goods. From the classic pumpkin pie to trendy pumpkin protein shakes, the market keeps growing.

And of course, the crown jewel of the season — the pumpkin-spiced latte — continues to reign supreme, with 20 to 30 million sold every autumn. That’s a lot of whipped cream and cinnamon.

This spending surge creates opportunities for brands to connect with audiences through content they already crave

Why We Can’t Quit Pumpkin Spice

There’s a science (and maybe a little magic) to why we crave pumpkin spice. The familiar blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves taps into deep-seated memories of holidays, family gatherings, and warm kitchens. Paired with the short-lived nature of the season, the flavor becomes even more special — a treat we anticipate all year long.

Our Favorite Pumpkin Recipes

Here at the content licensing team People Inc., we believe pumpkin season is best celebrated in the kitchen. Our culinary experts have tested, tasted, and perfected a range of pumpkin recipes — all vetted by registered dietitians for both flavor and nutrition. Think fluffy pumpkin muffins, creamy pumpkin soup, and indulgent yet wholesome pumpkin cheesecake bars.

“Pumpkin pie spice has become synonymous with fall, and I understand why people love it so much,” says Alex Loh, Food Editor at EatingWell. “The warm spices, from ginger and nutmeg to cinnamon and clove, are cozy and aromatic, and pair perfectly with cool fall weather. To me, pumpkin pie spice means it’s time to bake, whether it’s a quick bread or cookies. It’s a nostalgic flavor that brings up fall memories, from apple picking to pumpkin painting. It’s a flavor I look forward to each year.”

Whether you’re a pumpkin purist or a spice adventurer, these recipes will make your fall table unforgettable.

Pumpkin-Spice Latte Overnight Oats
This make-ahead breakfast includes a delicious combo of spices, espresso, and pumpkin puree that will start any fall morning off right.

Pumpkin Pancakes
Take your pancakes to the next level with this seasonal recipe that gives your traditional fluffy flapjacks a rich, fall flavor.

Pumpkin Spice Butternut Squash Soup
You can go wrong with soup — and this one spells autumn with ingredients including squash, carrots, apples, and pumpkin pie spice.

Pumpkin Latte Coffee Cake
Brunch? Snack? Dessert? You can enjoy this fall-inspired treat any time of day. Serve it warm for extra cozy vibes. 

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Smooth, refreshing, and fragrant, this smoothie hits just right as fall makes its entrance. Blend one up in just five minutes. 

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookies
Indulge your PSL obsession with these pumpkin spice cookies. Spread with cream cheese frosting (with more pumpkin pie spice flavors) and sprinkle with cinnamon to finish.

And that’s just a taste of what we have to offer. There are so many more recipes to choose from — and license! So whether you’re looking for pumpkin spice (or peppermint!) recipes to help you connect with your audience, our tested, trusted, expert-approved recipes deliver. Learn how we can create a unique recipe experience for you. Happy fall, ya’ll.