While pumpkin spice everything seems like it has been around forever, it really saw its beginnings as a pop culture phenomenon in 2003, when Starbucks introduced the now iconic pumpkin spice latte. Three years later, it became a sensation—and the sales are a runaway train by now. While you and I might be getting some pumpkin fatigue, Nielsen estimates that U.S. sales of pumpkin-flavored products have already reached $802.5 million for the year ending July 29—that’s 42% higher than 2019.
And now the stalwart fast-food chain Wendy’s is joining the fun.
Wendy’s is the latest company to add the cinnamon-nutmeg flavoring to its menu, announcing plans to begin selling a Pumpkin Spice Frosty and Pumpkin Spice Frosty Cream Cold Brew. You’ll be able to pick up one or both starting Sept. 12.
“Wendy’s is helping turn our fans’ cravings into reality this fall by introducing our new Pumpkin Spice Frosty,” said Lindsay Radkoski, U.S. chief marketing officer for the Wendy’s Company, in a statement.
It’s hardly the first time Wendy’s has offered an alternate version of its iconic Frosty. Last year it rolled out both a peppermint version during the holidays and a strawberry-flavored Frosty for the summer months.
Bargain hunters hoping to try the new Frosty on the cheap can drop by the fast-food chain to buy a Wendy’s Frosty Boo! Book, a $1 collection of coupons that can be cashed in for five Jr. Frostys through the end of the year. Proceeds from the sale of those coupons benefit the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.
Still a little pumpkin-spiced out? Think of it this way: At least they didn’t put it on the fries.