Pumpkin Spice Latte

A warm, cozy drink that combines the flavors of fall with creamy comfort. This Pumpkin Spice Latte is easy to make at home, perfect for chilly mornings or quiet evenings. I like to stir it gently as the spices bloom, filling the kitchen with that familiar autumn aroma.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Pumpkin Spice Latte is comforting, easy, and versatile. The rich pumpkin flavor blends beautifully with warm spices, making it cozy for any time of day. It’s quick to prepare, so it works for busy mornings or an afternoon treat. You can adjust sweetness, swap milk types, or double the batch for a crowd. It’s also budget-friendly and avoids fancy syrups. Save this recipe for cozy weeknights, family mornings, or when friends stop by—it’s a simple way to bring warmth to your day without fuss or extra trips to the store.

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Ingredients

Tip: Use canned pumpkin puree for smooth texture and rich flavor.

  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup milk (any kind)
  • 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream for topping (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
In a small saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until the mixture becomes fragrant and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Add milk to the saucepan and heat slowly. Stir constantly so the milk doesn’t scorch. The mixture should be warm and slightly frothy, filling the kitchen with a sweet, spicy aroma.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Pour brewed coffee into a mug, then add the pumpkin-milk mixture. Stir gently to combine. Check sweetness and spice, adjusting if needed for your taste.

See also  Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Heat everything together for another minute, just until steaming. Pour into your favorite mug and top with whipped cream and a light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired. Serve warm immediately.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This Pumpkin Spice Latte is quick to make and doubles easily, so you can prep it ahead for the week. You can warm it in minutes each morning, making it ideal for busy schedules. Leftovers store well in the fridge, and the ingredients are simple enough to always have on hand. It’s a cozy treat without complicated steps.

Tips & Tricks

  • Smooth Pumpkin: Whisk the pumpkin puree and milk together thoroughly to avoid lumps. Many skip this, but it makes the latte creamy without clumps.
  • Sweetness Balance: Start with the suggested sugar, then taste. Pumpkin and spices can be strong, and adding sugar gradually keeps it from being too sweet.
  • Frothy Milk: Heat milk slowly while whisking to create light froth. High heat can burn it, so patience pays off.
  • Spice Customization: Adjust pumpkin pie spice to taste. A little extra cinnamon or nutmeg can brighten the latte, but too much can overpower the pumpkin.

Variations

  • Meaty Version: Pair your latte with breakfast sausage or bacon on the side. The savory notes balance the sweet, spiced flavors of the drink, creating a cozy morning combo that’s hearty and satisfying for chilly days.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based milk like oat or almond and skip whipped cream or use a dairy-free version. The drink remains creamy and aromatic without animal products, perfect for a plant-friendly morning treat.
  • Ingredient Swap: Swap brewed coffee with strong decaf or chai tea for a caffeine-free or spiced twist. The warming pumpkin and spices still shine, giving a cozy cup even without coffee.
  • Flavor or Herb Boost: Add a pinch of ginger or a dash of cardamom for an extra layer of warmth. Freshly grated nutmeg on top adds aroma, creating a richer, more aromatic drink for a cozy afternoon sip.
See also  Pumpkin Pancakes

Serving Suggestions

  • Family Breakfast Pairing: Serve alongside warm cinnamon toast or muffins. The pumpkin latte adds a creamy, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with baked goods for casual weekend mornings.
  • Afternoon Cozy Break: Enjoy with a small plate of roasted nuts or apple slices. The sweetness and spices complement light snacks, making an inviting mid-afternoon treat.
  • Presentation Boost: Pour into a clear glass mug and swirl whipped cream on top. Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice for a Pinterest-worthy look that makes mornings feel special.
  • Casual Gathering: Serve with cookies or scones for a simple, crowd-pleasing drink station. Your guests can enjoy warm, cozy lattes alongside a variety of bites in a relaxed setting.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge Storage: Store leftover latte in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Keep the whipped cream separate to avoid melting and soggy texture.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring halfway. Avoid high heat to prevent milk from scorching and losing its creamy texture.
  • Freezing: Not recommended for latte with milk, as texture changes. You can freeze pumpkin puree or sugar-spice mix separately for quick future preparation.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare pumpkin-spice mix in advance and store in the fridge. When ready, add milk and coffee for a quick latte in minutes.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Rest Time: N/A
  • Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition Information

Calories: 150–200 per serving
Protein: 4–6g
Key nutrients: Vitamin A from pumpkin, calcium from milk
Values are estimates and can vary depending on milk type, coffee strength, or whipped cream topping.

FAQs

Yes, prepare the pumpkin-spice mix in advance. Add coffee and milk when ready.

See also  pumpkin recipe dessert

Lumps happen if pumpkin puree isn’t fully whisked into milk. Whisk thoroughly for smooth texture.

Absolutely. Non-dairy milk works fine and adds natural sweetness.

Reduce milk slightly or simmer pumpkin mixture a bit longer for thicker consistency.

Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before drinking.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Spice Latte is simple, cozy, and easy to make at home. It’s flexible, letting you adjust sweetness, spices, or milk types for your taste. Whether you’re sipping alone or sharing with family, it brings warmth and comfort to chilly mornings or quiet evenings. Keep this recipe handy—it’s the kind of drink you’ll return to whenever you need a small, delicious pick-me-up.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Save
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Pumpkin Spice Latte

Recipe by Tasty VaultCourse: Pumpkin Recipes
Servings

1

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

A cozy, spiced pumpkin latte you can make at home in minutes. Creamy, warming, and perfect for chilly mornings or quiet evenings.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp pumpkin puree

  • 1 cup milk

  • 1/2 cup brewed coffee or espresso

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

  • Whipped cream (optional)

Directions

  • Combine pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a saucepan. Warm until fragrant.
  • Add milk and heat slowly, stirring to avoid scorching.
  • Pour coffee into a mug and stir in pumpkin-milk mixture.
  • Heat for another minute until steaming. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle spices if desired.

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