Pumpkin Spice Latte is a cozy, warm drink that brings together the rich flavors of coffee with sweet pumpkin and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s like a little hug in a mug, especially when the air starts to get crisp and fall leaves are everywhere.
I love making this latte at home because it fills the kitchen with that wonderful spicy smell that just makes you want to curl up with a good book or your favorite movie. I usually top it with a big swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for extra fun.
This drink is perfect for mornings when you need a comforting pick-me-up or for sharing with friends during chilly afternoons. If you’re a fan of seasonal flavors, this pumpkin spice latte is sure to become one of your favorites, bringing a little bit of fall magic into every sip.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: Whole milk works great for creaminess, but you can easily swap it for almond, oat, or soy milk. Each gives a slightly different texture and flavor—try oat milk for a naturally sweet, smooth latte.
Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spices. If fresh pumpkin is handy, roast and mash it yourself—it adds a lovely fresh taste.
Espresso or Strong Coffee: If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee will still give great flavor. Cold brew concentrate also makes a nice, smooth base.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blends cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. If you don’t have the mix, combine these individual spices yourself. Adjust the amounts to make it milder or spicier.
Sweetener: Sugar works well, but honey, maple syrup, or your favorite sugar substitute can be delicious alternatives.
How Do You Froth the Milk Without a Fancy Machine?
Frothing milk can seem tricky if you don’t have a steam wand. Here are some easy ways to get that lovely foam:
- Whisk Method: Heat your milk until hot (not boiling), then whisk vigorously by hand for about 30 seconds until foam forms.
- Jar Shaking: Pour milk into a jar with a lid, fill halfway, close tightly, and shake like crazy for about 30-60 seconds. Then microwave for 30 seconds to stabilize the foam.
- Milk Frother: Electric frothers are affordable and super simple to use, heating and frothing the milk in one step.
Whichever method you use, warm milk and steady frothing help create that silky, velvety texture that makes your latte café-style at home.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small saucepan – perfect for warming and mixing the pumpkin with milk without burning it.
- Whisk or milk frother – helps you froth the milk to get that creamy, foamy texture you love in lattes.
- Espresso maker or coffee brewer – for making a strong espresso or coffee base to build your latte.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get the pumpkin, spices, and sugar just right every time.
- Heat-safe mug – to hold your latte and show off all those layers of coffee, milk, and whipped cream.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cinnamon or ginger syrup instead of pumpkin pie spice for a different warm spice twist.
- Add a shot of caramel or vanilla syrup for extra sweetness and richness.
- Swap pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a similar texture but a slightly earthier flavor.
- Top with cinnamon sugar or crushed graham crackers instead of classic whipped cream for a crunchy garnish.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or your choice of dairy/non-dairy)
- ½ cup strong brewed espresso or strong coffee
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping
- Ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely pumpkin spice latte only takes about 10 minutes to make from start to finish. Most of the time goes to heating and frothing the milk, while you prepare your coffee or espresso. It’s a quick treat to cozy up with!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Warm and Spice the Milk:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Keep stirring often to make sure it heats evenly and doesn’t scorch. Heat until hot but not boiling — you’ll start to smell the lovely pumpkin spice aromas.
2. Add Vanilla and Froth the Milk:
Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract. Next, use a milk frother or a whisk to create foam in the milk mixture. If you don’t have equipment, just whisk vigorously by hand until frothy.
3. Combine Coffee and Milk:
Pour your brewed espresso or strong coffee into a large mug. Gently pour the frothed pumpkin-spiced milk over the coffee, letting it mix naturally.
4. Add Toppings and Serve:
Top your latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top to finish. Serve right away and enjoy the warm, cozy flavors!
If you enjoyed this cozy Pumpkin Spice Latte, you’ll also love our Pumpkin Spice White Hot Chocolate, a creamy and indulgent treat perfect for fall.
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for the Pumpkin Spice Latte?
Yes! Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all work well. Just choose your favorite non-dairy option and heat it gently as you would regular milk. Some plant-based milks froth better than others, with oat milk being a popular choice for creaminess.
Can I Make the Pumpkin Spice Latte Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pumpkin-spiced milk mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before frothing and combining with fresh coffee.
What If I Don’t Have Pumpkin Pie Spice?
No problem! Simply mix equal parts ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to create your own pumpkin pie spice blend. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.
How Should I Store Leftover Pumpkin Spice Latte?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before drinking. The texture may change slightly after storing.