How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home

The pumpkin spice latte has become synonymous with fall, with loyal drinkers eagerly awaiting its return every year.

What Is a Pumpkin Spice Latte and Why It Is So Loved

A pumpkin spice latte is a coffee drink with a warm, spiced flavor that is reminiscent of fall. It combines espresso, steamed milk, sweetener, and fall spices that are combined in a spice mix known as pumpkin spice or pumpkin pie spice. The drink is often topped with whipped cream and a dash of pumpkin spice.

Newer versions of the drink do include pumpkin puree, but this is a more recent addition.

The pumpkin spice latte is super popular since it's usually only available at coffee shops in the fall, signifying the beginning of the season. The warm blend of spices is also a popular flavor, especially for those who enjoy pumpkin pie and fall flavors.

Ingredients You Need for a Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

To make a pumpkin spice latte at home, you’ll need:

• Espresso or strong brewed coffee: Espresso is the base of the drink, giving it a stronger coffee flavor that complements the spice mix. You can use any type of coffee, but stick to high quality organic coffee for the best flavor.
• Milk: Steamed milk is essential for a hot pumpkin spice latte. Whole milk will give you the best result, but you can use lower fat milk or plant-based options.
• Pumpkin spice mix: You can purchase pre-made pumpkin spice mixes or make your own. These commonly include cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
• Pumpkin puree: Pumpkin puree will give your drink more of an actual pumpkin flavor, just be sure to use puree and not pumpkin pie mix.
• Sweetener: Sweeteners like maple syrup and brown sugar will add a more caramel-like taste, where refined sugar will just amp up the sweetness.

Optional add-ins include vanilla extract, flavored syrups, and whipped cream.

The Classic Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe: Step by Step

Ingredients:

• 2 shots espresso, freshly brewed
• 1 cup milk of choice
• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp maple syrup, or sweetener of choice
• ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• ⅛ tsp salt
• Whipped cream (optional)

Steps:

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir for 1-2 minutes until combined and warm. You can add a splash of milk to help it along.
2. Pull 2 shots of espresso and pour them into a mug.
3. Steam the milk using a steam wand. The milk should be hot and creamy with a light layer of foam.
4. Add the pumpkin mixture to the espresso and stir to combine.
5. Gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso mixture. Top with whipped cream and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice.

An Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte Coffee Variation

Ingredients:

• 2 shots espresso, freshly brewed
• 3/4 cup cold milk of choice
• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp maple syrup, or sweetener of choice
• ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice, plus more for topping
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• ⅛ tsp salt
• 1 cup ice cubes
• Whipped cream (optional)

Steps:

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir for 1-2 minutes until combined and warm. You can add a splash of milk to help it along.
2. Pull 2 shots of espresso, and let them cool slightly.
3. Add the pumpkin mixture and the espresso to a glass and stir until fully combined.
4. Fill a glass with ice, pour in the pumpkin-espresso mixture, and add the cold milk.
5. Stir to combine and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

A Dairy-Free Pumpkin Spice Coffee Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 shots espresso, freshly brewed
• 1 cup unsweetened oat milk
• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp maple syrup, or sweetener of choice
• ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• ⅛ tsp salt
• Dairy-free whipped cream (optional)

Steps:

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir for 1-2 minutes until combined and warm. You can add a splash of milk to help it along.
2. Pull 2 shots of espresso and pour them into a mug.
3. Steam the milk using a steam wand. The milk should be hot and creamy with a light layer of foam.
4. Add the pumpkin mixture to the espresso and stir to combine.
5. Gently pour the steamed oat milk over the espresso mixture. Top with dairy-free whipped cream and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice.

Tips to Make Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Taste Like a Cafe

You can make a pumpkin spice latte at home that tastes just as good or even better than one from your favorite cafe with these tips:

• Use quality coffee: Whether you’re using espresso or strong-brewed coffee as the base, stick to high-quality coffee beans that are freshly roasted.
• Use whole milk: Whole milk froths better, but if you’re opting for a plant-based option, look for oat milk in the barista edition. The higher fat content and stabilizers help it foam better.
• Stick to pumpkin puree: This contains real pumpkin, giving you better pumpkin flavor. Heat up the puree with the spices and sweetener before adding it to your coffee to help everything incorporate better.
• Add a pinch of salt: This elevates the flavors and enhances the sweetness without an artificial taste.
• Use a natural sweetener: For added depth of flavor, use maple syrup or brown sugar.