Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte Starbucks Recipe [+Tips]

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Ahh, Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte – the name alone feels like slipping into your favorite oversized sweater, doesn’t it?

If autumn had a flavor, this would be it. Imagine the warm, spicy depth of chai-cinnamon, cloves, cardamom-blended with the velvety, sweet richness of pumpkin and cozy fall spices. Now swirl in creamy milk and a touch of sweetness, and you’ve got a drink that basically tastes like a fall hug in a mug.

Starbucks launched this dreamy concoction as part of their seasonal offerings, and it instantly became a fan-favorite. But let’s face it: those frequent coffee shop visits add up. So why not recreate the magic at home with a recipe that’s:

  • Just as indulgent (maybe more!)
  • Easy to whip up
  • Fully customizable
  • And, honestly, kind of therapeutic to make (hello, frothing milk like a pro!)

Let’s gather our ingredients and get that cozy fall vibe brewing in your kitchen!

Ingredients For Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe)

Here’s the magic formula to recreate that famous drink at home. You can adjust sweetness and spice levels to match your personal preferences, but this combo nails that Starbucks vibe.

✨ For The Latte

  • 1 cup milk (dairy or your favorite plant-based alternative – oat milk is for a creamy texture)
  • ½ cup brewed chai tea concentrate (store-bought like Tazo or homemade if you’re feeling fancy)
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling – we want the real, unsweetened stuff!)
  • 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (or classic simple syrup – sweeten to your taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or your own mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (adds that mellow, dessert-like warmth)

Optional Toppings (Highly Recommended)

  • Whipped cream (because…treat yourself!)
  • A dash of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top
  • Cinnamon stick for stirring (and Instagram-worthy presentation)

How To Make Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Style)

Ready to transform your kitchen into a cozy café? Here’s a step-by-step guide that’s as easy as pie (pumpkin, of course).

  Fall Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brew The Chai

    • If using a concentrate (like Tazo Chai), just measure out ½ cup.
    • If making your own, steep 2 chai tea bags in ½ cup of hot water for 5-7 minutes, then remove the bags.
  2. Heat And Whisk The Pumpkin Mixture

    • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:

      • Milk
      • Pumpkin purée
      • Sweetener (maple syrup, honey, etc.)
      • Pumpkin pie spice
      • Vanilla extract
    • Whisk gently until everything is hot and well-blended (don’t boil it-just warm it through until it’s steaming).
  3. Froth The Milk (Optional But Fun!)

    • Want that Starbucks-style foamy top? Use a milk frother, blender, or even a French press to froth your hot pumpkin milk mixture. Super satisfying.
  4. Assemble The Latte

    • In your favorite mug, pour the chai concentrate.
    • Add the hot, spiced pumpkin milk mixture.
    • Stir gently to combine.
  5. Top It Off

    • Dollop on some whipped cream.
    • Sprinkle with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice.
    • Add a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling extra.

Sip slowly and feel that autumn bliss take over. ☕✨

Expert Tips

Want to take your latte to the next level? Here are some pro barista-style tricks and tips:

  • Use oat milk for the creamiest, dreamiest texture – it mimics dairy incredibly well and froths like a champ.
  • Don’t skip the pumpkin purée – it gives the drink that earthy, rich body that screams fall.
  • Pre-mix your pumpkin spice syrup for faster prep later. Just combine pumpkin purée, spice, sweetener, and a little water. Store in the fridge for up to a week!
  • Use strong chai concentrate if you want more spice intensity. Starbucks chai is quite bold-don’t be afraid to go a little heavier than standard tea strength.
  • Add a shot of espresso to turn this into a Pumpkin Spice Dirty Chai Latte (you’re welcome, caffeine lovers).

Recipe Variations

Once you’ve got the basic recipe down, you can totally riff on it depending on your mood, the season, or your dietary preferences.

Fun Twists To Try

  • Iced Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte

    • Make everything as above, but let the chai and milk mixture cool.
    • Pour over ice and enjoy a chilly take on your fave fall drink.
  • Vegan Version

    • Use plant milk (almond, oat, soy, etc.)
    • Skip whipped cream or opt for coconut whip
  • Extra Spicy Chai

    • Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or grated fresh ginger for a little heat and depth.
  • Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte

    • Replace the chai with matcha for a green tea spin with earthy undertones and fall flavor.
  • Chai Pumpkin Cold Foam

    • Blend ¼ cup milk with 1 tbsp pumpkin purée and sweetener.
    • Froth it and top your cold brew or iced chai for a fun café-style twist.

Final Words

Here’s the real deal: you don’t need to wait for Starbucks to bring back its seasonal drinks to indulge in pumpkin spice bliss. With just a handful of ingredients and a few cozy minutes in your kitchen, you can have a homemade Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte that rivals anything from the drive-thru.

And the best part? You’re in total control:

  • Sweeter? Add more syrup.
  • Spicier? Sprinkle in extra cinnamon.
  • Stronger tea? Brew it your way.
  Golden Chai Tea Latte Recipe [+Tips]

It’s your mug. Your rules. And honestly? That makes it taste even better.

FAQs

What Is A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte At Starbucks?

A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte is a seasonal beverage at Starbucks that combines chai tea concentrate, steamed milk, and pumpkin spice syrup. It’s topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, offering a sweet and spiced flavor profile with a hint of warmth from the chai spices and sweetness from the pumpkin spice syrup.

What Ingredients Are In A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte?

The main ingredients in a Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte are chai tea concentrate (a blend of black tea and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves), steamed milk (usually whole milk, but can be substituted with alternatives), pumpkin spice syrup (a mix of pumpkin puree, spices, and sweeteners), whipped cream, and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

How Can I Make A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte At Home?

To make a Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte at home, brew chai tea concentrate, steam your milk (or heat it on the stove), and mix in pumpkin spice syrup. Top with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice. You can either buy pre-made pumpkin spice syrup or make your own by mixing pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla syrup.

Can I Make A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte Without Dairy?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte by substituting the regular milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Additionally, ensure that the whipped cream is either omitted or replaced with a dairy-free version.

Is The Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte Available All Year At Starbucks?

No, the Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte is a seasonal drink, typically available during the fall months, around September through November. It is part of Starbucks’ popular Pumpkin Spice lineup, which is launched every year for a limited time.

How Do I Customize My Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte?

You can customize your Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte in several ways. Some options include adjusting the sweetness by asking for less or more pumpkin spice syrup, choosing a different type of milk, requesting extra foam, or adding a shot of espresso for a Pumpkin Spice Chai Espresso Latte.

Can I Make A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte Iced?

Yes, you can request an iced Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte at Starbucks. The process is similar to the hot version, but the chai concentrate and pumpkin spice syrup are poured over ice instead of being steamed with milk.

What Is The Nutritional Value Of A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte?

The nutritional value of a Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte depends on the size and milk choice. A tall (12 oz) version made with 2% milk contains approximately 300 calories, 10 grams of fat, 47 grams of sugar, and 5 grams of protein. Substituting with non-dairy milk or adjusting the sweetness can alter these values.

Can I Use A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte For A Caffeine Boost?

Yes, the Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte contains caffeine from the chai tea concentrate, which is made from black tea. The caffeine content in a tall (12 oz) serving is roughly 50-70 milligrams, depending on the chai concentrate used.

  Chai Tea Latte Home Recipe [+Tips]

What Can I Pair With A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte From Starbucks?

A Pumpkin Spice Chai Tea Latte pairs well with a variety of fall-themed snacks, such as pumpkin bread, apple muffins, scones, or even a savory option like a turkey sandwich. The warm and spicy flavors of the latte complement sweet and spiced treats, enhancing the seasonal experience.