Autumn is an exciting season that brings colorful leaves, crisp air, and Halloween. It has also become synonymous with pumpkin spice, which is a flavor that you can find infused in donuts, lattes, cupcakes, and other foods and beverages. If you have noticed this trend of pumpkin spice items and want to learn more about this flavor, below is a brief introduction.

Origins

Pumpkins were reportedly a “last resort” food among American colonists, who consumed the gourds when they didn't have enough yeast and wheat for beer and bread, respectively. Since pumpkins are native to American soil, settlers associated eating them with financial difficulties because those with money could raise European crops. This meant that the term “pumpkin eater” was an insult at the time.

Despite these early negative connotations, many people enjoyed pumpkins, and there was a nostalgia-fueled resurgence during the mid-19th century. Many authors referred to the gourd in poems and it became a staple item in recipes at the time, specifically around Thanksgiving. For example, pumpkin pie became one of the most common treats, and it featured assorted spices, milk, and honey. By 1934, McCormick® had created a pumpkin pie spice blend that included cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice, allowing people to create this dessert easily and efficiently.

A New Coffee & Donut Flavor

In 2003, Starbucks® introduced its now-famous Pumpkin Spice Latte featuring pumpkin, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger flavors. While the beverage returns to their menu every fall, it almost didn’t make its debut because marketers were concerned the spices would overpower the drink and eliminate the flavor of the coffee.

However, many consumers didn't mind the spice in their coffee and enjoyed that the beverage was a nod to the country’s past that celebrates the season. This drink became a huge success and encouraged other companies to create pumpkin spice products, including donuts, cheesecakes, potato chips, and beer. The scent of pumpkin spice is popular as well, and continues to infuse candles and personal care products.

If you want to get into the season and enjoy pumpkin spice donuts and other treats, visit Emerson’s Bakery in Florence, KY. With locations throughout Cincinnati, OH, and the Tri-State area, they make every confection from scratch, whether you want a birthday cake, cookies, or a specialty dish. Call (859) 371-9228 today to place a custom donut or cake order, and visit the website to learn more about their unique desserts. Follow them on Facebook for news and updates.