Despite it being the first day of September, I've been tempted to indulge in a few pumpkin spiced lattes as they are one of my favourite beverages. These popular drinks are always an instant hit when autumn rolls around.
As tasty as Starbucks' pumpkin flavoured latte is - it is one of my all-time favourites - it does come with a hefty price tag. Recently, Greggs brought its autumn menu into stores, including its own version, but for a fraction of cost - Starbucks usually costs £3.65 for a small.
Even though summer is still around, I couldn't resist popping into my local Greggs to see if its version could be a worthy alternative. Another item that piqued my interest in Greggs' new range was the Pumpkin Spice Doughnut, which is a first for the bakery's line-up, as reported in the Mirror.
It seemed like an ideal combination. And, when a fresh tray was brought out just as I joined the queue, it felt like fate.
I watched as the Greggs employee swiftly prepared the drink (which costs £2.50 on its own - much cheaper than Starbucks). It came with complimentary whipped cream and a dusting of spiced sugar.
As the coffee cup was added, my sweet treat was packaged up. The doughnut (priced at £1.35 individually) features a spiced pumpkin filling and is topped with icing and a caramelised biscuit crumb.
By the time I got home, the cream on the latte had melted, but it did give the coffee a lovely, rich body that I enjoyed just as much. The flavour of the drink was just as I expected - strong but not overpowering.
But what surprised me the most was I actually preferred Greggs' version to Starbucks. And for its affordable £2.50 price point, it makes it even more of a sweet treat.
Taking a bite of the doughnut also didn't leave me disappointed. It was packed with flavour and worked as a lovely sugary snack.
For fans of the iced varieties at Starbucks, Greggs also has you covered. I noticed online that there is an Over Ice Pumpkin Spice Latte, starting at £3.
This is only available at certain stores though so it's best checking your local has them in stock. Mine didn't but I'm more of a hot drink person anyway.
Overall, it's safe to say I'll be choosing Greggs for all my future Pumpkin Spice needs. You can't complain about the price or quality, making this treat a little more affordable.
