Pumpkin spice latte is the ultimate cozy drink I love to make when autumn rolls in. It’s warm, creamy, perfectly spiced, and feels like fall in a cup. Best of all, I can make it at home with real ingredients — no need to head to the coffee shop.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this latte because it’s comforting, flavorful, and way more affordable (and customizable) than the store-bought version. It’s made with real pumpkin, a touch of sweetness, and those classic warming spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It tastes just like fall should.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Milk (dairy or non-dairy like oat, almond, or soy)
-
Pumpkin puree
-
Pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
-
Sugar, maple syrup, or sweetener of choice
-
Vanilla extract
-
Strong brewed coffee or espresso
-
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Directions
-
In a small saucepan, I whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, sweetener, and spices over medium heat until steaming — but not boiling.
-
I remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
-
I mix strong coffee or espresso and pour it into a mug.
-
I pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee and stir gently to combine.
-
I top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice if I want it extra festive.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 large latte or 2 small cups. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare.
Variations
I sometimes use coconut milk for a tropical twist, or add a shot of caramel or hazelnut syrup. For an iced version, I let everything cool and pour it over ice. And when I want a caffeine-free treat, I skip the coffee and make it a pumpkin spice steamer.
Storage/reheating
Pumpkin spice latte is best enjoyed fresh, but I sometimes make a double batch of the pumpkin milk base and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before mixing with fresh coffee.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?
I don’t recommend it. It’s already sweetened and spiced, which can throw off the balance. I always use plain pumpkin puree.
Can I make it without espresso?
Yes. I use strong brewed coffee or even instant coffee when I’m in a rush.
Is it better with dairy or non-dairy milk?
Both work well. I love using oat milk for extra creaminess, but any milk will do.
Can I make a big batch for guests?
Absolutely. I scale up the ingredients and keep the pumpkin milk warm in a saucepan, then pour it over freshly brewed coffee when ready.
How do I make it extra frothy?
I use a milk frother or whisk the mixture vigorously before pouring — it gives that café-style foam on top.
Conclusion
Pumpkin spice latte is a seasonal favorite I love bringing into my own kitchen. It’s quick, cozy, and completely customizable — and once I make it at home, I don’t miss the coffee shop version one bit.
Print
Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (heating only)
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 large latte (or 2 small cups)
- Category: Drink, Coffee, Seasonal
- Method: Heated/Blended
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin spice latte is the ultimate cozy drink I love to make when autumn rolls in. It’s warm, creamy, perfectly spiced, and feels like fall in a cup. Best of all, I can make it at home with real ingredients — no need to head to the coffee shop.
Ingredients
- Milk (dairy or non‑dairy like oat, almond, or soy)
- Pumpkin puree
- Pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- Sugar, maple syrup, or sweetener of choice
- Vanilla extract
- Strong brewed coffee or espresso
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, sweetener, and spices over medium heat until steaming (but not boiling).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix strong coffee or espresso and pour it into a mug.
- Pour the pumpkin‑milk mixture over the coffee and stir gently to combine.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired.
Notes
- You can use coconut milk for a dairy‑free version.
- Add a shot of caramel or hazelnut syrup for extra sweetness.
- For an iced version: let the mixture cool and pour over ice.
- To make it caffeine‑free, skip the coffee/espresso and treat it as a pumpkin spice steamer.
- If making ahead, store the pumpkin‑milk base in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 large latte
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
