Dunkin' vs. Starbucks: Who Wins the 2025 Fall Menu Battle?
Key Insights
Dunkin's Early Start:: Dunkin' launched its fall menu on August 20th, beating Starbucks to the punch.
Starbucks' PSL Return:: The iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) returns to Starbucks on August 26th.
New at Dunkin':: The Cereal N' Milk Latte offers a nostalgic twist, while the Mixed Berry Daydream Refresher, in collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter, adds a fruity option.
Dunkin's Food Focus:: Dunkin' introduces the Iced Pumpkin Loaf, Kreme Delight Donut, and Chipotle Loaded Hash Browns.
Starbucks' Newcomers:: Starbucks adds Italian Sausage Egg Bites and a Pecan Oatmilk Cortado to its fall lineup.
Why does this matter? The fall menu releases from Dunkin' and Starbucks signal the start of the fall season for many consumers. These menus offer a limited-time opportunity to enjoy seasonal flavors and treats, driving traffic and revenue for both chains.
In-Depth Analysis
Dunkin' and Starbucks are both vying for your fall beverage and snack dollars. Here's a closer look at what each chain brings to the table:
Dunkin':
Dunkin' is banking on nostalgia with its Cereal N' Milk Latte, aiming to capture the flavors of childhood cereal milk. The Sabrina Carpenter-inspired Mixed Berry Daydream Refresher provides a fruity alternative to pumpkin spice. The addition of the Iced Pumpkin Loaf, Kreme Delight Donut, and Chipotle Loaded Hash Browns expands their food offerings, providing more variety for customers.
Starbucks:
The return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte is always a major draw for Starbucks. This year, they're also bringing back the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, and Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte. The new Italian Sausage Egg Bites and Pecan Oatmilk Cortado offer additional options for breakfast and coffee lovers.
Menu Highlights
Cereal N' Milk Latte (Dunkin'): Espresso combined with cereal milk for a marshmallow-cereal flavor.
Mixed Berry Daydream Refresher (Dunkin'): Oatmilk-based refresher topped with cold foam.
Iced Pumpkin Loaf (Dunkin'): Pumpkin and vanilla flavored pound cake with cream cheese icing.
Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks): Espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin flavor, and spices, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spices.
Pecan Oatmilk Cortado (Starbucks): Ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso with steamed oatmilk.
FAQs
Q: When does the Pumpkin Spice Latte return to Starbucks?
August 26th.
Q: What's new on Dunkin's fall menu?
The Cereal N' Milk Latte, Mixed Berry Daydream Refresher, Iced Pumpkin Loaf, Kreme Delight Donut, and Chipotle Loaded Hash Browns.
Q: Does Starbucks have any new fall menu items?
Yes, Starbucks is introducing Italian Sausage Egg Bites and a Pecan Oatmilk Cortado.
Key Takeaways
Both Dunkin' and Starbucks offer a range of fall-themed beverages and snacks.
Dunkin' focuses on nostalgic and unique flavor combinations, while Starbucks emphasizes the return of classic favorites.
Consider trying new items from both menus to discover your favorite fall treat.
Discussion
Which fall menu are you most excited about? Let us know!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
⚠ Disclaimer: Yanuki provides article summaries and links for reference only. Yanuki does not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. Please review original sources and verify information independently. Managed by the Yanuki Data Engine. Full Disclaimer