For 2023, Starbucks just released its new Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea latte. It’s a super refreshing drink that turns the pumpkin spice flavor up to a 15!
I got a chance to try the drink out at my Starbucks here in Lafayette, California.
Here are my thoughts from the taste test.
Just when we thought Starbucks couldn’t surprise us any more with their innovative creations, they introduced the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte.
It’s definitely a game-changer for all the pumpkin spice lovers out there. I was pleased to find that this newly launched drink was certainly different and more unique than some of the other newcomers to the Starbucks’ drink menu.
The Base – Chai Tea Latte
The foundation of the drink is a classic chai tea latte which is a delightful blend of milk and warm spices like nutmeg and cloves, making it a perfect choice for fall. I love how these flavours are beautifully balanced, without any single one dominating the others.
The spices are turned up a notch – from a 5 to a whopping 15 if I had to put it on a scale, delivering a super strong spice flavor there. Far from being spicy in the hot pepper sense, it resonates with those warm, autumnal spices that we associate both with chai tea and with pumpkin spice.
The iced aspect gives it a refreshing edge which is a welcome surprise considering most fall beverages are typically served hot. This goes to show that Starbucks isn’t afraid to divert from tradition and create something that is refreshingly cool for the season.
In San Francisco’s weird 95 degree October weather, I appreciate it a lot!
The Top – Pumpkin Spice Cream
On top of the drink is the pumpkin spice cream.
| Flavour profile | Strong notes of pumpkin spice with a touch of sweetness, reminding me of a cooler Cool Whip. |
|---|---|
| Texture | Slightly thicker than whipped cream, contributing to a fuller, indulgent mouth-feel. |
| Experience | As you sip the drink, bits of this cream cushion the tongue, providing bursts of the pumpkin spice flavour. |
A Void Filler for Non-Coffee Lovers
Another thing worth noting is this drink doesn’t have the coffee kick, making it a great option for those who are not a fan of the shaken espressos or the newer coffee drinks. This rich and creamy chai tea latte harmoniously pairs with the strong pumpkin spice enhancing the overall experience.
It does still have caffeine, though, so probably not good for kids.
Final Verdict
A refreshing autumnal beverage that strikes the perfect balance between the traditional chai and the trendy pumpkin spice. With its rich taste, cooling sensation and comforting fall spices, I am confident that this may become a staple in Starbucks’ fall menu for years to come. This new take on the chai latte is worth savoring every last sip!
Looking to explore more about Starbucks drink reviews? Simply search for “Bay Area Telegraph Starbucks” and you can see all the items we’ve covered so far. Stay tuned to see if this particular latte joins the ranks of Starbucks classics and remains on the menu for more than a year!
Key Takeaways
- The Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks is their newest pumpkin spice style drink.
- The drink consists of chai tea latte with warm spices such as nutmeg and cloves, topped with a pumpkin spice cream.
- The drink is refreshing and perfect for the fall season.
- The pumpkin spice flavor is strong and adds an extra kick.
- The drink does not have a coffee flavor.
- The Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is expected to stay on the menu for more than a year.
