GoKawiilFast-food chains diversify fall menus as pumpkin spice demand cools, DoorDash data shows
DoorDash consumer trend data indicates pumpkin spice lattes may be past their peak popularity, with pecan orders up 28% year over year. Major chains including Starbucks, Dunkin', McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, Wendy's and Dairy Queen have responded by rolling out fall drinks built around pecan, banana, tiramisu, apple, marshmallow and s'mores flavors, with McDonald's skipping pumpkin entirely this season.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
For decades pumpkin spice has been the default fall marketing hook for food and beverage brands, so a documented shift in consumer appetite forces chains to rethink seasonal product launches and supply planning. The move toward varied flavors also signals brands competing harder for attention during the same 'comfort rushing' window as customers seek autumn nostalgia earlier each year.
- Pecan-flavored orders rose 28% year-over-year, per DoorDash data.
- Starbucks, McDonald's, Dunkin', Chick-fil-A, Wendy's and Dairy Queen all added or emphasized non-pumpkin fall flavors this year.
- Experts describe a 'comfort rushing' trend where consumers seek seasonal comfort foods earlier as summer ends.
Torani Salted Caramel Syrup — If you're over pumpkin spice, Torani's syrup lineup lets you chase the flavors actually trending this fall — caramel, pecan-friendly toffee, vanilla and more — right from your own kitchen. A pump or two turns regular drip coffee or an at-home latte into a cafe-style seasonal drink without waiting in line.
See Torani Salted Caramel Syrup on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: entrepreneur.com — Jon Small, 2026-09-01
Published there as: “Pumpkin Spice Fatigue Is Real — These Flavors Are Stealing the Spotlight This Fall”
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