Pumpkin Spice Latte Easy Recipe [+Tips]

Ingredients For Pumpkin Spice Latte (Easy Recipe)

This recipe is seriously so simple, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making your own sooner. It uses everyday pantry staples and real pumpkin puree (not that fake stuff), giving it that rich, velvety texture and authentic flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Ingredients

• 1 cup milk (whole milk for creaminess, or any dairy-free option like almond, oat, or soy)
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling-big difference!)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons sugar (or maple syrup, honey, or your fave sweetener)
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or 1-2 shots of espresso
• Whipped cream (optional, but let’s be honest… it’s not really optional )
• Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for topping

Optional Add-ins

• A pinch of salt (to balance and enhance flavor)
• A dash of black pepper (trust me-tiny bit adds warmth!)
• Coconut cream for dairy-free whipped topping
• Caramel drizzle for that coffee-shop finish

How To Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Easy?

Making this cozy drink takes just a few minutes-and it’ll feel like a mini self-care ritual.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat The Milk & Pumpkin

   • In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, and sugar.
   • Let it warm gently-don’t boil it!-just heat until steaming and the sugar dissolves.

2. Add The Flavor

   • Stir in the pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract.
   • Keep whisking until it’s all blended and smooth. Your kitchen is going to smell divine at this point.

3. Froth It (Optional, But Fancy)

   • If you have a milk frother, immersion blender, or even a regular whisk, froth the milk mixture until it’s light and foamy.

4. Add Coffee Or Espresso

   • Pour your brewed coffee or shots of espresso into your favorite mug.
   • Then pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee.

5. Top Like A Barista

   • Add a dollop (or mountain) of whipped cream.
   • Dust with more pumpkin spice or cinnamon.
   • Optional: Drizzle with caramel for an extra hit of indulgence.

6. Sip And Smile

   • Wrap your hands around the mug.
   • Take a deep breath.
   • Sip.
   • Fall in love.

Expert Tips

If you want your PSL to feel like it came from a cozy corner coffee shop in Vermont, here are some pro tips you need to know:

• Use Real Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin puree is great, but try roasting your own pumpkin for a homemade twist if you’re feeling ambitious.
• Freshly Brewed Espresso: If you can, go espresso over drip coffee. It makes the flavor deeper and richer.
• DIY Pumpkin Pie Spice: Mix 1 tbsp cinnamon, 1 tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp cloves. Store it in a jar for all your fall baking needs.
• Froth Everything: Frothing your milk, even without a frother, elevates the texture so much-it makes the drink silky, airy, and café-like.
• Don’t Overheat: Milk scalds easily. Medium heat is your friend. Be patient-it’s worth it.
• Make It Iced: Cool the pumpkin milk mixture, pour over ice with cold brew or espresso, top with whipped cream-voilà, iced PSL!

Recipe Variations

Once you’ve nailed the basic PSL, the real fun begins. You can riff on this in so many creative, delicious ways!

Dairy-Free Delight

• Use oat milk or almond milk
• Top with coconut whipped cream

Mocha Pumpkin Spice Latte

• Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the milk mixture
• Chocolate + pumpkin = heavenly combo

☃️ Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte

• Chill the pumpkin milk blend
• Pour over ice and cold brew
• Great for warm autumn days (or year-round PSL fans)

Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat!)

• Skip the hot milk.
• Make a pumpkin cold foam by blending pumpkin puree, milk, spice, and a little sugar until foamy.
• Pour over a glass of cold brew and ice. Game-changer.

Vegan PSL

• Use plant milk + maple syrup + coconut whipped cream
• Double-check your pumpkin puree doesn’t have additives!

Final Words

Let’s just take a moment to appreciate what this recipe really gives us.

It’s not just a latte-it’s a ritual. A moment to slow down, breathe in cinnamon-scented air, and treat yourself with something special you made with your own hands.

And can we talk about the savings? One homemade PSL costs a fraction of the price you’d pay at a coffee shop. Plus, you get to customize it to your taste-more spice, less sweet, dairy-free, super creamy-you call the shots.

You’ll be sipping this drink through fall, into winter, and probably even in spring with zero regrets.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For An Easy Pumpkin Spice Latte?

To make a simple pumpkin spice latte, you will need brewed coffee or espresso, milk (dairy or non-dairy), pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, sweetener (like sugar or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.

Can I Make A Pumpkin Spice Latte Without Espresso?

Yes, you can substitute espresso with strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine. The flavor will still be delicious!

What Is The Best Milk To Use In A Pumpkin Spice Latte?

The best milk for your pumpkin spice latte depends on your preference. Whole milk creates a rich and creamy texture, while almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk are great non-dairy alternatives.

How Do I Make The Pumpkin Spice Syrup For The Latte?

To make pumpkin spice syrup, combine 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup water, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves. Heat on the stove until dissolved, then strain to remove solids.

Can I Use Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead Of Pumpkin Puree?

While you can use pumpkin pie filling, it’s generally better to use pumpkin puree for a more natural pumpkin flavor. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that could alter the taste.

Is There A Way To Make A Dairy-free Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Yes! You can easily make a dairy-free pumpkin spice latte by using any plant-based milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Ensure you use a dairy-free sweetener if needed.

Can I Make A Pumpkin Spice Latte Without A Milk Frother?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a milk frother, you can heat your milk on the stove and whisk it vigorously to create foam, or use a jar to shake the milk and create froth before adding it to your coffee.

How Do I Make My Pumpkin Spice Latte Sweeter?

To make your pumpkin spice latte sweeter, add more sugar, maple syrup, or honey to taste. You can also use flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel to enhance the sweetness.

Can I Make A Pumpkin Spice Latte Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make the pumpkin spice syrup and brew the coffee ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine them with milk and spices. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for freshness.

How Do I Top Off My Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Top your pumpkin spice latte with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a dash of pumpkin pie spice. For extra indulgence, drizzle some caramel syrup on top!