Review: Starbucks - Pumpkin Spice Steamer

I suppose you can consider this a Starbucks "secret menu" item: you can get a non-caffeinated Pumpkin Spice Latte by ordering a Pumpkin Spice Steamer, which is the same drink, only without the espresso.

They charged me $2.75 for a 12-oz Tall-sized cup (that's at least $1 less than the PSL at most locations).

The drink is just steamed milk with pumpkin spice sauce, topped with whipped cream and cinnamon. Bereft of coffee, it sports a creamy yellow color.

I tried just dipping some of the whipped cream into the drink with a stir stick for a delicious pumpkin spice whipped cream effect. It would make a nice dessert by itself.

The flavor is a pleasant and warm combination of pumpkin, a hint of spice, and creamy milk. It's pretty well-balanced and not too sweet or strong. It's a bit like drinking a warm version of pumpkin ice cream.

I've tried the Pumpkin Spice Latte (both hot and cold) as well as the Pumpkin Spice Creme Frappuccino, and I liked this one better than both. Why? The pumpkin flavor is front and center; with the latte, the coffee plays more of a role and with the Frappuccino, it's diluted by the ice. Also, the warmth of a hot drink just fits the fall.

Overall, Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Steamer (they might also call it a "Creme" or "Flavored Steamed Milk") made for an excellent fall drink, especially if you don't like coffee or it's getting late but you still want a pumpkin fix.

Nutritional info not available; it's a custom drink.