Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino (Starbucks Copycat)

WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE

Making your own Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino at home is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it saves you money compared to buying it from Starbucks. With just a few ingredients and a blender, you can whip up this delightful drink whenever you crave it. Second, it’s super customizable. You can adjust the sweetness, the amount of pumpkin, or even try different types of milk to suit your preferences. Plus, there’s something special about creating your own beverages – you get to enjoy the process and have fun experimenting in the kitchen!

HOW TO MAKE Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ice
• ½ cup cold brew coffee
• ½ cup milk of choice (I used whole milk)
• ¼ cup pumpkin spice syrup
• 1 ½ tbsp canned pumpkin puree
• ¼ tsp xanthan gum
• Whipped cream and/or pumpkin pie spice (optional for garnish)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Start by adding the ice to a high-speed blender.
2. Next, pour in the cold brew coffee.
3. Add the milk of your choice. Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but feel free to use almond, oat, or any other milk you prefer.
4. Now, add the pumpkin spice syrup. This is where the classic pumpkin flavor comes from!
5. Spoon in the canned pumpkin puree. It adds a rich, smooth taste to your frappuccino.
6. Finally, sprinkle in the xanthan gum. This ingredient helps thicken your drink and gives it a better texture.
7. Blend everything together until smooth and no ice chunks are left. Make sure it’s well combined.
8. Once blended, pour the frappuccino into a tall glass.
9. If you want to indulge a little more, top it with whipped cream and sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top.
10. Now, drink up and enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino!

HOW TO SERVE Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino is all about presentation and enjoyment. Begin by pouring the frappuccino into a tall glass, which showcases its beautiful color and frothy texture. If you’ve topped it with whipped cream, make sure it’s nicely piped, and dust it with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for an extra touch. This drink is perfect for sipping with friends or enjoying while relaxing on a cozy evening. Serve it chilled with a straw, and feel free to pair it with some autumn-themed snacks like pumpkin muffins or scones for a delightful treat.

HOW TO STORE Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino

If you find yourself with leftover Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino, you can store it in the refrigerator for a short time. Pour any remaining frappuccino into a sealed container, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the texture may change once it’s chilled again. The ice may melt, making it a little watery when you go to enjoy it later. For the best experience, it’s recommended to drink it fresh. If you want to make a batch ahead of time, try not to blend in the ice until you are ready to serve it; this way, you can maintain the thick and creamy texture.

TIPS TO MAKE Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino

1. Chill your ingredients: For a frostier drink, chill your coffee and milk in advance. This helps keep the frappuccino icy and refreshing.
2. Adjust sweetness: Taste your frappuccino as you blend. You can add more pumpkin spice syrup or even a splash of vanilla syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
3. Don’t skip the xanthan gum: This ingredient helps create a smooth texture. If you can’t find it, you can omit it, but the frappuccino may be a bit thinner.
4. Garnish options: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for added flavor.
5. Experiment with flavors: If you love experimenting, you can play around with different flavors of syrup. Maple syrup or caramel syrup can add a unique twist to your frappuccino.

VARIATIONS

1. Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the whole milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk to make a creamy and delicious dairy-free frappuccino.
2. Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and ensure the pumpkin spice syrup is vegan, omitting whipped cream or replacing it with vegan whipped cream.
3. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected kick in your frappuccino!
4. Extra Pumpkin: Increase the amount of pumpkin puree for a more pronounced pumpkin flavor. This will give your drink a richer texture and taste.
5. Chocolate Pumpkin Frappuccino: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist on this classic fall beverage.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of cold brew?

Yes, you can use regular brewed coffee! Just make sure it is cooled down before using it in the frappuccino. Cold brew gives a smoother flavor, but regular coffee works just fine.

How can I make my own pumpkin spice syrup?

You can easily make your own pumpkin spice syrup at home. Mix equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Stir in canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice. Heat gently until combined, then strain out the solids for a smooth syrup.

Is this frappuccino suitable for kids?

Yes, this Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino can be enjoyed by kids! Just keep in mind that the caffeine from the cold brew coffee may be too much for some children. You can substitute the cold brew with extra milk or a coffee alternative for a caffeine-free treat.

Creating your own Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino allows you to enjoy a beloved seasonal drink without the trip to the coffee shop. It’s a simple recipe that you can adjust to fit your taste preferences. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward directions, you can bring the cozy flavors of fall right into your home. Enjoy!