As the leaves begin to change and cooler weather settles in, some of our favorite flavors begin to make a comeback for a few short months. Fall is arguably the most anticipated food and beverage season of the year, thanks in part to its bountiful LTOs, like the ever-popular Pumpkin Spice Latte. Consumers look forward to fall each year for its hallmark flavors, as brands build anticipation for both fall classics and the latest and greatest seasonal trends.
While there are some fall flavors, like Pumpkin Spice, that hold consumers’ attention year after year, in general, consumers are always looking for what’s new and what’s next in flavor. Consumer preferences are constantly evolving, so offering seasonal LTOs that reflect current trends or offer an innovative twist on a fan-favorite flavor will attract consumers who are looking for something different, but still want to celebrate fall through seasonally inspired foods and beverages. Here, we take a look at two common fall flavors and provide suggestions for how to take them to the next level to delight consumers of all ages.
Pumpkin
Many brands have jumped on the Pumpkin Spice bandwagon, given its consistent popularity year after year. It is no secret that consumers love all things pumpkin when fall rolls around, but how do you create a unique pumpkin flavored product that will stand out? One option is to combine it with another trending flavor. Think Vanilla Pumpkin Chai, Pumpkin Butterscotch, and Spiced Caramel Pumpkin. Consumers love indulgent flavors in fall, so another option is to incorporate pumpkin into the flavors of a favorite dessert. Some examples of this might include Pumpkin Cheesecake, Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll and Maple Pumpkin Pancakes. Lastly, you could surprise consumers by offering a savory or spicy take on pumpkin, like a Sweet Heat Cinnamon Cayenne Pumpkin flavor. While all of these flavors are sweet, they could work in a variety of applications, like dairy, beverages, baked goods, and even salty snacks.
Apple
Second only to pumpkin, apples are a go-to fall flavor; they’re practically synonymous with fall! There are plenty of ways to take existing fall favorites, like Apple Pie, and shake them up with trending flavors. Think Cayenne Candied Apple, Bourbon Apple Cider, and Umami Apple Pie, featuring white cheddar and savory spices. Combine apples with other fall flavors for a truly irresistible flavor profile that fall-crazed consumers will love. Apple Pumpkin Cake, Brown Sugar Glazed Apples, and Cranberry Apple Crisp would all fit the bill. Apples could also be paired with trending ethnic flavors for innovative combinations that Millennials will love – like a Five Spice Apple BBQ. Just like with pumpkin, there are numerous applications for apple flavors, including dairy, baked goods, snacks, and even proteins.
Whether you’re looking for a classic fall flavor, a unique take on a popular fall flavor or something complete new and different, we’ve got you covered. Feeling inspired? Contact us to see how Fuchs can help you make something special.