From pumpkin-spice margaritas to boba tea, check out Austin’s unique twists to this popular fall flavor.
By Danielle Ortiz, Doughnut photo by Thomas Kelley, Boba tea photo by Jessica P. Wu
Fifteen years ago, Starbucks created the pumpkin spice latte and launched a pumpkin-spice craze. Some people hate it, while some can’t get enough of it. For the PSL-fatigued who still want to partake in the most beloved of all fall flavors, you’re in luck, as Austin is full of weird pumpkin-spice-inspired food and drinks. Here are our top local treats to revive your pumpkin-spice spirit.
Pumpkin-spice boba tea from Boba Boyz
Boba Boyz combined two food trends with its pumpkin-spice boba tea. The boba tea shop opened inside Lotus + Cleaver in The Domain earlier this fall and pledges to donate 5 percent of sales to a cancer charity, so you can do good while trying this unusually delicious pumpkin-spice pairing.
Pumpkin-spice cream puff from Cream Whiskers
This is not your typical cream puff. Cream Whiskers is Austin’s first shop dedicated to cream puffs, and this bakery took the pumpkin-spice trend to the next level. Satisfy your sweet tooth with this pastry filled with pumpkin whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon-sugar powder on top.
Pumpkin-spice Firkin from Uncle Billy’s
Pumpkin spice and beer: It sounds like an unusual match, but until you taste Uncle Billy’s latest limited-edition firkin release, don’t be too quick to judge. Made with Berdoll Brown Pecan Ale (crafted with locally produced candied pecans) and pumpkin spice, the final result is fall in a stein. If you want to get a taste, head to Uncle Billy’s soon because the beer will be on tap until it runs out.
Pumpkin-spice margarita from Tacos and Tequila
Transition your favorite summer drink to fall with Tacos and Tequila’s seasonal cocktail of the month. Try the pumpkin-spice margarita for the flavor of fresh pumpkin and a whole lot of spice.
Hopscotch Brittle from Uncle Ray’s Peanut Brittle
Kick the classic peanut brittle up a notch by adding a little fall flavor. Courtney Ray Goodson of Uncle Ray’s Peanut Brittle handmakes her family’s recipe for peanut brittle—to delicious results. Her Hopscotch Brittle, a pumpkin-pie pecan brittle with a butterscotch drizzle, is the perfect gift for the pumpkin-spice lovers in your life.
Pumpkin-spice doughnuts from Little Lucy’s
These warm and tiny doughnuts from Little Lucy’s are bursting with pumpkin flavor and are the perfect sidekick for a cup of coffee, pumpkin-spiced or otherwise.
Smashed guacamole from Jack Allen’s Kitchen
Although it isn’t the typical pumpkin-spiced nibble, Jack Allen’s Kitchen’s smashed guacamole embraces pumpkin in a truly tasty way. This guac includes a sprinkling of pumpkin seeds and cotija cheese, and is a perfect fall-inspired appetizer or snack.