Pumpkin Spice Latte is that cozy, comforting drink that feels like autumn in a cup. It blends creamy steamed milk with rich espresso, all flavored with warm pumpkin spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The perfect touch of sweetness and a little whipped cream on top make it feel extra special.
I love making this at home because it fills the kitchen with the smell of fall and warms me up on chilly mornings. It’s such a simple way to bring that festive pumpkin flavor into a regular day. Plus, I can adjust the sweetness or spice level just the way I like it, which makes it feel even better than picking one up at a coffee shop.
My favorite way to enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte is curled up with a good book or while catching up with friends. It has this fun way of making any moment feel a little more special, and it’s often the treat that kicks off the cozy season for me. If you haven’t made one at home before, I promise it’s totally worth trying—it really brings the best parts of fall right into your mug.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: This is the heart of the latte’s flavor. Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or make your own by roasting pumpkin. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains extra sugar and spices.
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but you can substitute with almond, oat, or any plant milk. Just pick unsweetened to control the sweetness yourself.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This combo of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves brings the classic fall taste. If you don’t have it ready-made, mix your own with these spices for freshness.
Sweetener: Sugar or maple syrup works well. Maple syrup adds a deeper flavor, but honey or agave are good alternatives too.
Coffee/Espresso: Use strong brewed coffee or espresso shots. If you prefer less caffeine, replace half with decaf or strong chicory coffee.
How Can I Get That Perfect Creamy and Frothy Pumpkin Milk?
Creating creamy, frothy milk is key to enjoying a great latte. Here’s how I do it:
- Warm your milk and pumpkin mix gently on the stove, stirring often to avoid burning.
- Use a milk frother for a quick and smooth foam. Handheld or electric frothers work great.
- If no frother, blend the warm mixture in a blender for 20-30 seconds until frothy.
- Pour slowly over your coffee to keep the foam on top.
- For extra creaminess, use a higher fat milk or plant milk alternatives specially made for frothing, like barista blends.
Taking these steps makes your latte smooth and light, just like a coffee shop version at home!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small saucepan – heats the milk and pumpkin mixture gently without burning.
- Whisk – helps blend the pumpkin puree and spices smoothly into the milk.
- Milk frother or blender – froths the pumpkin milk to give your latte that creamy, foamy top.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate spice and vanilla measurements to balance flavor.
- Large mug – holds your latte and leaves room for whipped cream and toppings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try using chai spice mix instead of pumpkin pie spice for a spiced latte with a little kick.
- Add a shot of caramel or vanilla syrup for extra sweetness and richer flavor.
- Swap whipped cream topping for coconut whipped cream to keep it dairy-free and tropical.
- Mix in a dash of espresso powder for a stronger coffee taste if you like bold flavors.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup milk (whole, almond, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee or 1-2 shots espresso
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 to 2 tablespoons sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground cinnamon or extra pumpkin pie spice, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple and cozy pumpkin spice latte comes together in about 10 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes warming and mixing, then frothing the milk, so it’s quick to make anytime you want a comforting fall treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm the Pumpkin Milk Mixture:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Heat the mixture until it’s hot but not boiling, stirring now and then so everything mixes well and doesn’t burn on the bottom.
2. Add Vanilla:
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely depth to the flavor.
3. Froth the Milk:
Use a milk frother or blender to froth the pumpkin milk mixture until it’s creamy and foamy. This gives your latte that light, airy texture.
4. Combine Coffee and Pumpkin Milk:
Pour your hot brewed coffee or espresso into a large mug. Slowly pour the frothed pumpkin milk over the coffee, letting the foam sit on top.
5. Add Toppings and Enjoy:
Top your latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or extra pumpkin pie spice on top for a festive finish. Serve right away and savor that warming fall flavor!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for Pumpkin Spice Latte?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, soy, or any non-dairy milk works well. Just choose unsweetened versions and froth them carefully, as some plant milks foam better than others.
How Can I Make This Latte Less Sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of sugar or maple syrup to your taste. You can also skip the whipped cream topping to cut down on extra sweetness and calories.
Can I Prepare Pumpkin Spice Latte in Advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh because the frothiness fades over time. However, you can make the pumpkin milk mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before frothing and combining with coffee.
What’s a Good Alternative to Pumpkin Puree?
While pumpkin puree gives the best authentic flavor, you can try sweet potato or butternut squash puree as substitutes. Just adjust the spices slightly to complement their natural sweetness.
