From Starbucks lattes to grocery aisles, pumpkin spice has defined fall for over a decade. Now, fatigue is setting in. Autumn 2025 ushers in global flavors, cozy classics, and bold “swicy” (sweet + spicy) twists. Nostalgia blends with novelty. Warm spices like cinnamon and chai take center stage. Classic fruits—apple, pear, cranberry—anchor the season. Indulgent notes of pecan, maple brown butter, and salted caramel add richness. Consumers lean into sweet-heat pairings, the depth of brown butter, and the comfort of candy apples. Autumnal flavors are rewriting tradition, inviting everyone on a new taste journey. Read on to learn more!
Fruit forward
As these flavor shifts unfold, fruit is stepping into the spotlight as a versatile hero of the season. According to Pepsico, moving beyond pumpkin spice, autumnal fruits bring a balance of tartness and sweetness that offers versatility in both hot and cold beverages. Apple, cranberry, and pear continue as fall icons, while pomegranate, persimmon, fig, and quince are rising in popularity. You may know cranberries as a classic Thanksgiving flavor. In beverages, they could occur more, especially as a refreshing counterpoint to warm spices. Apples are also getting a seasonal refresh, with varieties like Honeycrisp and Green Apple drawing attention. Watch candy apple for proven newness in confectionery and snacks!
Warming spices
Feeling a chill in the air? As temperatures drop, consumers tend to gravitate toward cozy, aromatic flavors that signal comfort. Cinnamon, clove, chai, ginger, and nutmeg bring depth, warmth, and complexity. In fact, according to a survey by The Food Institute, cinnamon has taken the top spot as consumers’ favorite fall flavor! Consumers’ favorite autumnal flavor can go into both sweet and savory dishes. Try these easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Baked Apples!
Indulgent and inventive
Flavors like caramel apple, pecan, pistachio, brown butter, and cookie butter evoke a sense of nostalgia and fall decadence. Salted caramel remains a favorite, and creative spins, such as salted maple, go especially well with fall menus. Pecan appears to become a rising star, especially in the form of pecan pie or butter pecan. This nutty favorite has turned into the fastest-growing fall latte favorite as well, with orders up 28% year-over-year. Toasted pecans, featuring a rich, toasted flavor, have been trending in beverages and baked goods. Just check out these pecan recipe options from Food 52.
Complex combinations
While maple has always been a favorite, pairing the flavor with bourbon creates a rich profile that conjures cozy evenings and flannel blankets. Maple bourbon offers a sweet and smoky fireside combination that work perfect in crafting cocktails and elevated desserts (even decadent ice cream). Looking to add sophistication to your lineup? Fig and honey bring subtle fruit and floral notes. Earthy warmth grounds the blend. Try it in everything from cheese boards to Greek yogurt. Pear and ginger make another standout duo. Pear adds mellow sweetness. Ginger delivers a warming kick. Both combos tap into the rising demand for botanical and fruit-spice blends. Expect to see them in scones, muffins, and even wellness shots.
Symrise as an industry leader is innovating trending flavor profiles. For years, pumpkin spice has ruled the autumn beverage scene—the undisputed seasonal champion. This year, new contenders are emerging, stirring excitement among consumers and brands alike.
