As the temperatures begin to drop and the leaves begin to shift from green to red, many food companies have started to release their signature fall treats. Pumpkin-flavored items have become synonymous with the fall season, appearing everywhere from coffee shops to supermarket aisles. But with all the buzz surrounding these seasonal treats, one has to wonder: are pumpkin-flavored food and drink items truly with the hype or are they just a fleeting fad?

In order for these food items to be worth the hype, they must meet these three criteria: improve the food (as opposed to the “regular” flavor), be something one would purchase again, and be something one would recommend to others.

Pumpkin Spice and Cream Cheese Donut

This donut had a very cinnamony flavor reminiscent of an apple cider donut. The cream cheese was also a nice touch.

Improve the food? Yes, the pumpkin spice adds to the donut’s overall flavor and the cream cheese enhances the flavor.

Something one would purchase again? Yes, the flavor was enjoyable and perfect for autumn.

Something one would recommend to others? Yes, this donut was affordable and delicious!

Pumpkin Spice Oreo

When first biting into this Oreo, the pumpkin spice flavor was subtle. However, the flavor came through towards the end. 

Improve the food? Yes, pumpkin spice creme enriched the cookie but maintained the delicate flavor.

Something one would purchase again? Yes, this cookie tastes very similar to the golden Oreos but with spice flavoring, and only towards the end does a bit of cinnamon flair appear.

Something one would recommend to others? Yes, this Oreo was very pleasant and delectable. 

Pumpkin Spice Starbucks Frappuccino

This frappuccino was sweet and the fall flavors such as pumpkin, cinnamon and caramel burst through with every sip.

Disclaimer: I do not normally drink/prefer coffee.

Improve the food? Yes, the pumpkin spice made the frappuccino taste more rich and flavorful.

Something one would purchase again? No, however, I would purchase the pumpkin spice creme frappuccino as opposed to the plain frappuccino.

Something one would recommend to others? Yes, the frappuccino was generally great-tasting (just not my preferred drink).

Pumpkin Spice Jell-O Pudding Mix

This pudding was smooth and easy to make, however the pumpkin spice contained too much spice and not enough pumpkin.

Improve the food? No, this pudding was not pleasant and is additionally much better without any pumpkin spice flavoring.

Something one would purchase again? No, this pudding did not taste good on its own but maybe in a different dish.

Something one would recommend to others? No, this pudding was disgusting.

In conclusion, pumpkin spice is worth the hype, but some flavored items are better off left off the grocery store shelves.