Forget Starbucks; this homemade pumpkin spice latte uses homemade pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice syrup, and whipped cream for an easy fall drink!
Fall is here, and that means it's time for cozy drinks. I have to admit: I love a good PSL. But they cost a fortune, and so over the years, I began making my own pumpkin spice lattes at home. They're easy, taste great, and don't actually require any store-bought ingredients.
But after many years of making this drink at home, I discovered that most PSL recipes on the web suck. Sorry, but it's true; they either use no pumpkin puree, or just use flavoring, or simply add some spice to a latte. And I'm sorry, but that's not a PSL.
So I decided to make my own homemade pumpkin spice syrup. To make a tasty pumpkin spice latte, you need a good syrup. Homemade pumpkin spice syrup combines sugar, water, spices, and pumpkin purée for rich flavor. I simmer these ingredients together, then strain the mix. The syrup keeps in the fridge for about a couple of weeks, and I make them on repeat all fall long.
Hey, a girl has to sustain her basic pumpkin latte addiction somehow! For another fall favorite, check out my chai creme Frappuccino (Starbucks copycat recipe)!
With your syrup ready, making the latte is quick. I brew espresso, add some syrup, and top it with steamed milk. Some whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top make it perfect. And now, with this easy pumpkin spice latte recipe, you can enjoy your favorite drink at home whenever you want. For a pistachio version, I recommend checking out my pistachio latte with pistachio spread that you can whip up in just 5 mintes.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making the Pumpkin Spice Latte Syrup
In a small saucepan, mix water, maple syrup (or granulated sugar), real pumpkin puree (canned pumpkin works well), and pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice. If you don't have pre-mixed spice, combine cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to make your own pumpkin spice seasoning. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Stir frequently during this time to ensure even cooking and to prevent the syrup from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature. Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solid bits. This will ensure a smooth syrup.
Pour the strained syrup into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This batch of syrup can be used for multiple latte recipes.
Heat the Milk and Pumpkin
In a separate saucepan, combine milk and 3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it's hot but not boiling.
Prepare the Coffee
While the milk is heating, brew your coffee. You can use espresso, strong-brewed coffee, or even instant coffee if that's what you have on hand.
Combine Ingredients
Pour your coffee into a large mug. Add the heated milk and pumpkin mixture on top of the coffee. Then, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of your homemade pumpkin spice syrup, or adjust to taste.
Serve
Give the latte a final stir to ensure all ingredients are well mixed. Feel free to top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor. Serve immediately while hot in your favorite coffee mugs.
This cozy fall drink is quick and easy to make, and it's so delicious you won't miss the coffee shop version. Plus, by making your own pumpkin spice latte at home, you can control the sweetness and adjust the recipe exactly to your liking.
Whether you prefer it with extra pumpkin flavor, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, or as a vegan pumpkin spice latte using non-dairy milk, this versatile recipe is sure to become your new favorite way to enjoy this classic autumn beverage.
Top Tips
Use fresh ingredients. Real pumpkin puree adds authentic flavor. Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling - it's too sweet.
Froth your milk for a coffeehouse-style drink. A handheld frother works great if you don't have a steam wand.
Adjust spices to your taste. I like extra cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg in mine.
For an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte
To make an iced version, simply cool your coffee, use cold milk, and serve over ice. You might want to use extra syrup as the ice will dilute the flavor slightly.
From Mocktail to Cocktail
Turning a pumpkin spice latte mocktail into a cocktail is easy. I like to add a shot of vanilla vodka for a smooth, sweet kick. For a richer flavor, I sometimes use Irish cream. It pairs well with the pumpkin and spices. Another option is to add spiced rum. It complements the warm fall flavors nicely.
Accompanying Dishes and Serving Suggestions
The best way to enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte is with some fall-inspired baked recipes. The Flourless Pumpkin Bread is a perfect gluten-free option that complements the latte beautifully, offering a sweet counterpoint to the spiced coffee drink. For another hearty bake, try some spelt cinnamon buns.
For those looking for a more savory option, the Pumpkin Pizza is a unique dish that combines the flavors of fall with everyone's favorite comfort food, creating an interesting contrast to the sweet latte.
While not strictly pumpkin, the Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf is another excellent pairing that complements the fall flavors in the latte. Its nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile works well with the pumpkin spices. For a more elegant option, especially when entertaining, the Puff Pastry Pumpkin Pockets with Caramelized Onions or mushroom savoury pastries make for a sophisticated appetizer that pairs wonderfully with the latte.
Pumpkin Spice Latte with Syrup
Ingredients
For pumpkin spice syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
For latte:
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoon pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoon pumpkin spice syrup
- 1 shot espresso or ½ cup strong coffee
- 2 tablespoon Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon for topping (optional)
Instructions
- To make pumpkin spice syrup:
- Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Whisk to mix well.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- To make pumpkin spice latte:
- Heat milk and pumpkin puree in a saucepan.
- Froth mixture (optional).
- Pour espresso into a mug.
- Add milk mixture and syrup.
- Stir and serve.
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