A festive autumn puzzle has taken the internet by storm. It challenges viewers to spot three tiny ghosts hidden among a collection of pumpkin spice lattes, pie slices, and whipped cream in a cozy, illustrated autumn scene.
The Puzzle
Illustrator Gergely Dudás—better known as ‘Dudolf’—is famous for creating engaging visual puzzles. This Halloween-themed challenge blends pumpkin spice culture with ghost-hunting traditions.
Amidst a scene full of autumn treats—pumpkin spice lattes, golden pie slices, and thick whipped cream—three small, translucent ghosts are hidden. They don’t hide inside drinks or pie. Instead, they float near the top of foam and between colorful mugs.
Where to Look
- Don’t look inside the lattes or at the thick, golden pie layers.
- Avoid distractions like overflowing cream or bright, colorful mugs.
- The ghosts appear near foam tops and in gaps between mugs, using shadows and texture to blend in.
History of Pumpkin Spice
Before Starbucks launched its pumpkin spice latte in 2003, a spice mix called ‘pumpkin pie spice’ was already common in American homes. It includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice.
The first recipe for this blend appeared in Amelia Simmons’s 1796 cookbook, American Cookery, in a recipe for ‘pompkin’ pie.
For the first 12 years of the PSL, the syrup had no real pumpkin. It used only the spice blend. Real pumpkin puree was added officially in 2015.
Why This Puzzle Fits the Season
Autumn folklore says spirits wander more freely during harvest season. The veil between worlds is believed to thin then.
This matches the time when pumpkins and squash were brought from fields. These items once symbolized both harvest and the afterlife.
Check the Solution
If you’ve scanned the illustration and still can’t find all three ghosts, the full answer is available on the original source.
Visit the Mental Floss page for a clear breakdown of where the ghosts are and how to spot them.
For more autumn-themed puzzles and trivia, go to the Mental Floss quiz section. This challenge mixes humor, history, and tradition into a simple, shareable experience.
Sources & further reading
Featured image: original publisher image. Via original publisher. Image source
