WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE
Making a homemade pumpkin spice latte allows you to enjoy the rich, cozy flavors of fall in the comfort of your own home. This copycat version of the popular Starbucks drink captures the same delicious taste but is simpler and more cost-effective. You can easily customize it to fit your own taste preferences, whether that means adjusting the sweetness or experimenting with different types of milk. Plus, there’s something special about crafting your own coffee drink; it adds a personal touch to your morning or afternoon routine.
Making your own pumpkin spice latte means you control the ingredients. Store-bought versions often include extra preservatives and added sugars, but with this recipe, you can use natural ingredients like pure maple syrup and real pumpkin puree. It’s also a perfect way to savor the flavors of autumn, making every sip feel like a warm hug on a chilly day.
HOW TO MAKE Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
Making your homemade pumpkin spice latte is quick and uncomplicated. You’ll find that this recipe requires just a few steps, and the result is a deliciously creamy and spiced drink that rivals Starbucks.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup milk of choice (I used whole milk)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 2 oz espresso (or 8 oz brewed coffee)
- Whipped cream and/or cinnamon sugar (optional for garnish)
DIRECTIONS
-
Whisk the ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. This mixture will form the base of your latte.
-
Heat the mixture: Set the saucepan over medium-low heat and warm the mixture until it starts to steam and foam. Be careful not to let it boil.
-
Froth the milk: Once heated, remove the saucepan from the heat. Use a milk frother or a whisk to froth the mixture until it becomes light and airy. This step is essential for that café-like latte texture.
-
Brew your coffee: While your milk mixture is frothing, brew your espresso or coffee. If you prefer a stronger flavor, go for espresso; for a milder taste, brewed coffee will work nicely.
-
Combine and serve: Pour the brewed coffee into a mug and top it with the frothed pumpkin milk mixture. Be sure to include the foam for a fully satisfying drink.
-
Garnish: If desired, you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for an extra treat.
-
Enjoy: Your homemade pumpkin spice latte is ready to drink. Sip slowly and enjoy the delightful flavors.
HOW TO SERVE Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
Serving your homemade pumpkin spice latte is all about presentation and personal preference. You can serve it in a large coffee mug or a glass to show off the beautiful layers of coffee and frothed milk. If you’ve added whipped cream or cinnamon sugar on top, it will look even more enticing.
For an added experience, consider pairing your latte with a pastry, like a muffin or a cookie. This combination can enhance your coffee break and make it feel like a special occasion. Cool autumn afternoons are perfect for enjoying this drink while wrapped in a warm blanket, perhaps watching the leaves change color outside.
HOW TO STORE Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
If you have leftover pumpkin spice latte, you can store it in the refrigerator. Just transfer the drink to an airtight container. It should be consumed within a couple of days for the best flavor and freshness. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to keep the texture nice.
However, it’s best to prepare this drink fresh each time you want a cup. The flavors are brightest when freshly made, and you’ll enjoy the frothiness of the milk!
TIPS TO MAKE Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
-
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add more maple syrup or even a little sugar or honey to taste.
-
Use different milk: You can substitute any type of milk. Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can all make tasty alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
-
Experiment with spices: While pumpkin pie spice is traditional, you can experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for an extra kick of flavor.
-
Make it ahead: If you’re short on time in the morning, prepare the pumpkin milk mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up in the morning and brew your coffee for a quick start to your day.
-
Control the coffee strength: If you’re not a fan of strong coffee, you can adjust the espresso-to-water ratio to make it lighter.
VARIATIONS
You can play around with your homemade pumpkin spice latte to create new versions:
-
Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino: Blend the pumpkin milk mixture with ice to create a cooler, blended version. Add whipped cream and drizzle some caramel on top for added indulgence.
-
Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a refreshing version, prepare the drink using chilled milk and brew your coffee cold. Mix everything and serve over ice.
-
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte: Use almond, oat, or soy milk as your base and substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or coconut sugar if preferred.
-
Add a shot of flavor: Consider including flavors like hazelnut or chocolate syrup for a different twist.
-
Spiced Pumpkin Chai Latte: Substitute brewed coffee with chai tea for a spiced twist that combines the flavors of chai with pumpkin.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works great! Just be sure you’re getting pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.
2. Can I make this drink dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can use any plant-based milk of your choice, such as almond, coconut, or oat milk, to make this drink dairy-free.
3. How can I make this drink lower in sugar?
If you prefer a lower sugar version, reduce the amount of maple syrup or use a sugar substitute. You can also try using unsweetened almond milk or another low-sugar alternative.
Now that you know how to make, serve, store, and modify your homemade pumpkin spice latte, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start brewing. Enjoy the delightful taste of fall in every sip!