The Coffee Kits

The History of Pumpkin Iced Coffee: How It Became a Fall Classic

As the leaves start to change color and the weather gets cooler, one beverage that has become synonymous with fall is pumpkin iced coffee. This seasonal drink has taken the world by storm, with coffee shops and cafes offering their own unique take on the classic recipe. But how did this trend start and what is the history behind pumpkin iced coffee?

The Origins of Iced Coffee

The origins of iced coffee can be traced back to the Middle East, where people have been drinking cold coffee for centuries. In the 19th century, iced coffee was introduced to the United States and became a popular summer drink. However, it wasn't until the 1960s that iced coffee became widely available in coffee shops.

The Birth of Pumpkin Spice

The first known use of pumpkin spice can be traced back to the 1950s, when McCormick & Company introduced a spice blend called "Pumpkin Pie Spice". This blend was created to make it easier for people to make pumpkin pie at home, but it wasn't until the 1990s that the flavor became popular in other products.

The Emergence of Pumpkin Iced Coffee

It wasn't until the early 2000s that pumpkin iced coffee started to gain popularity. Dunkin' Donuts was one of the first coffee chains to offer a pumpkin iced coffee, followed by Starbucks and other coffee shops. The popularity of pumpkin iced coffee can be attributed to the rise of the pumpkin spice trend, as well as the demand for cold drinks during the fall season.

The Recipe for Pumpkin Iced Coffee

The recipe for pumpkin iced coffee varies depending on the coffee shop, but the basic ingredients include coffee, pumpkin syrup, and milk. The coffee is brewed and then mixed with pumpkin syrup, which is made by combining pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices. The mixture is then poured over ice and topped with milk or cream.

The Future of Pumpkin Iced Coffee

As the popularity of pumpkin iced coffee continues to grow, it is likely that more coffee shops will start to offer their own unique take on the classic recipe. Some coffee shops are already experimenting with different flavors, such as salted caramel pumpkin and pumpkin spice latte. With the demand for cold drinks during the fall season, it is clear that pumpkin iced coffee is here to stay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pumpkin iced coffee has become a fall classic due to its unique flavor and the rise of the pumpkin spice trend. The origins of iced coffee can be traced back to the Middle East, while the birth of pumpkin spice can be attributed to McCormick & Company. As the popularity of pumpkin iced coffee continues to grow, it is clear that this seasonal drink will remain a staple in coffee shops and cafes for years to come.