Pumpkin season has arrived, and nothing says fall quite like a warm, cozy pumpkin spice latte. While Starbucks made the drink famous, the truth is you can make an even better version at home in just 10 minutes.
This homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe uses real pumpkin puree, natural sweeteners, and a blend of pumpkin pie spices to create a drink that’s creamy, flavorful, and a lot healthier than the store-bought version.
Whether you prefer it dairy free, vegan, or with traditional milk, this recipe is fully customizable to suit your taste. Skip the coffee shop lines and make your own pumpkin spice latte that’s rich, cozy, and truly satisfying.
Table of Contents
What Is a Pumpkin Spice Latte?
What Defines a Pumpkin Spice Latte vs. Flavored Coffee or Latte?
A pumpkin spice latte, often called a PSL, is more than just a flavored coffee drink. Unlike regular lattes with a dash of syrup, a true pumpkin spice latte includes real pumpkin puree combined with a signature spice blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This combination creates a creamy, aromatic beverage with that unmistakable fall flavor. The balance of strong espresso, frothy milk, and pumpkin spice sweetness is what makes it stand out from other seasonal coffees.
Origins and Rise in Popularity of Pumpkin Spice Latte
The pumpkin spice latte first gained mainstream attention in 2003 when Starbucks launched its PSL nationwide. Since then, it has become a cultural phenomenon, with millions of cups sold each fall. Beyond Starbucks, independent coffee shops and home baristas now create their own versions. The appeal lies in its nostalgic connection to fall traditions—pumpkin pie, cozy sweaters, crisp leaves—and its irresistible mix of sweet and spicy flavors. Today, making a pumpkin spice latte at home has become just as popular, thanks to simple recipes that use real ingredients without the extra sugar and additives found in commercial versions.
Ingredients for Your Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
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Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe: How to Make the Best Homemade PSL
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This cozy homemade pumpkin spice latte is crafted with real pumpkin puree and warm pumpkin pie spice. Naturally sweetened and dairy-free, it’s the perfect recipe to enjoy with your morning coffee or as a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
2 shots espresso (or 1/2 cup strong coffee)
1 cup oat milk (or milk of choice)
1 to 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
1. Pour milk into a small pot and heat over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling.
2. Brew your espresso or coffee and pour into a mug.
3. Add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla to the mug. Stir well.
4. Froth the hot milk and pour into the mug over the mixture.
5. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.
Notes
No pumpkin pie spice? Mix 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/8 tsp nutmeg, 1/8 tsp ginger, 1/8 tsp cloves or allspice.
Use oat milk for the creamiest froth.
Adjust sweetness by starting with 1 tablespoon maple syrup and tasting.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte
- Calories: 132
- Sugar: 14.1g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21.7g
- Fiber: 1.7g
- Protein: 2.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Essential Ingredients: Pumpkin Puree, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Espresso/Coffee, Milk
The foundation of a delicious pumpkin spice latte recipe lies in just a few simple ingredients. To get that authentic fall flavor, you’ll want to start with real pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling, which comes pre-sweetened and spiced. Pure pumpkin brings a natural earthiness and creaminess to the drink.
Next, you’ll need a pumpkin pie spice blend, which is usually a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This combination gives the latte its signature warm, cozy flavor. For the coffee base, freshly brewed espresso works best because it provides a bold, rich flavor that balances the sweetness. If you don’t have espresso, strong brewed coffee is a great alternative.
Finally, choose a milk that froths well. Traditional whole milk adds creaminess, but almond, oat, or coconut milk also create a velvety texture and are perfect for dairy-free or vegan versions.
Natural Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers (Maple Syrup, Vanilla)
One of the biggest differences between a homemade pumpkin spice latte and a store-bought version is the sweetener. Instead of artificial syrups, use pure maple syrup. Not only does it add a subtle caramel-like sweetness, but it also enhances the pumpkin and spice flavors. For an extra layer of warmth, a splash of vanilla extract rounds out the taste, making every sip smooth and comforting. If you prefer, you can substitute honey or brown sugar, but maple syrup pairs perfectly with fall flavors. And if you’re watching your sugar intake, simply reduce the sweetener while still keeping that cozy, pumpkin-forward taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions: The Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
How to Prepare the Pumpkin-Spice Mixture
The secret to a perfectly balanced pumpkin spice latte lies in creating a smooth pumpkin-spice base before combining it with your coffee. Start by whisking together pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
This mixture should be thick, fragrant, and slightly sweet. If you’d like, you can make a bigger batch and store it in the fridge for a few days—this way, you can whip up a PSL in minutes all week long. By preparing the base separately, you ensure that the pumpkin flavor blends seamlessly into your drink rather than clumping at the bottom.
Frothing and Combining with Espresso or Strong Coffee
Next, it’s time to pull your espresso shots or brew a half cup of strong coffee. Pour the hot espresso into your favorite mug and stir in the pumpkin-spice mixture until fully dissolved. Now for the fun part: heat your milk of choice in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
Use a milk frother (or a whisk if you don’t have one) to create a foamy, velvety texture. Slowly pour the frothed milk into your mug, layering it over the pumpkin-espresso blend. Reserve a spoonful of foam for the top, then finish it off with a dusting of cinnamon or extra pumpkin spice. If you’re feeling indulgent, add whipped cream for that classic coffee shop finish.Making this drink at home takes less than 10 minutes, but the payoff is huge—a creamy, spiced latte that tastes gourmet, without the added sugar or preservatives of a commercial version.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Dairy Free & Vegan Variations (Almond, Oat, Coconut Milk)
One of the best parts about a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe is how easily you can adjust it to fit your lifestyle. If you’re avoiding dairy or just love plant-based options, try almond milk for a light, nutty flavor, or oat milk for an extra creamy, café-style texture. Coconut milk is another delicious choice that adds a subtle tropical note to balance the spices. Most non-dairy milks froth well, but oat milk is often the winner for creating that thick, velvety foam. You can also swap out traditional whipped cream with a coconut-based whipped topping to keep things 100% vegan.
Swap Sweeteners or Alter Spice Blends
If maple syrup isn’t your go-to, there are plenty of other natural sweeteners you can use. Honey gives the latte a floral sweetness, while brown sugar creates a deeper, caramel-like richness. For a low-carb option, you might try monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar.Adjusting the spice blend is another way to make the recipe your own. If you love cinnamon, add a little extra for warmth. Want more zing? Boost the ginger. You can also experiment with cardamom or allspice for a unique twist. The beauty of making this latte at home is that you’re in control—every cup can be customized to your perfect flavor profile.
Nutrition & Health: Are Pumpkin Spice Lattes Healthy?
Calorie, Sugar, Fat Content in Homemade vs. Store / Starbucks Versions
When people think about a pumpkin spice latte recipe, one of the first questions is whether it’s actually healthy. The truth is, it depends on how you make it. A grande Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte comes in at around 380 calories and 50 grams of sugar—that’s more than a can of soda. Much of the sweetness comes from pumpkin-flavored syrup rather than real pumpkin puree. By contrast, a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe using natural ingredients like maple syrup and real pumpkin puree has about 130 calories, 14 grams of sugar, and less than 4 grams of fat. The difference is significant, especially if you’re someone who enjoys the drink multiple times a week during pumpkin season.
Healthier Tweaks and What to Watch Out For
The great thing about making a pumpkin spice latte recipe at home is the ability to control every ingredient. If you want to lighten it up, use unsweetened almond or oat milk to cut calories and reduce sugar.
Sweeten it with just a teaspoon of maple syrup or try natural alternatives like monk fruit or stevia. Since the recipe already contains real pumpkin puree, you’re also getting a boost of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants—something you’ll never find in a syrup-heavy version from a coffee chain. To keep things balanced, enjoy your latte as a cozy treat rather than a sugar bomb. By choosing the homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe, you get all the fall flavor you crave without the sugar overload.
What’s in Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte?
The Ingredients They Use (Syrups, Artificial vs Real Pumpkin, Additives)
Starbucks made the pumpkin spice latte famous, but if you’ve ever looked closely at what’s inside, you’ll notice it’s very different from a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe. For years, the Starbucks version didn’t even contain real pumpkin—it relied solely on a pumpkin-flavored syrup made with sugar, condensed skim milk, and natural and artificial flavors. Today, their updated formula does include a small amount of pumpkin puree, but the drink is still packed with high amounts of sugar (about 50 grams in a grande), preservatives, and caramel coloring. While it certainly delivers that sweet, spicy fall taste, it doesn’t have the same wholesome quality that a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe offers with real pumpkin and natural sweeteners.
How Store-Bought Differs from Homemade Versions
The biggest difference between Starbucks and a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe comes down to quality and control. At the coffee shop, you’re getting a pre-made syrup with more sugar than pumpkin. At home, you can use real pumpkin puree, adjust the spice levels to your liking, and keep the sweetness natural with maple syrup or honey.
Starbucks PSLs also contain a higher calorie count and less nutritional value. By making your own, you get the cozy flavor of pumpkin spice with the bonus of knowing exactly what’s in your cup. Plus, you can create dairy-free or vegan versions at home—something you’d have to specifically request (and pay extra for) at the store.
What Is the Main Ingredient in Pumpkin Spice?
Spice Blend Breakdown: Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger, etc.
When you follow a pumpkin spice latte recipe, you’ll notice that the flavor comes less from the pumpkin itself and more from the pumpkin spice blend. Contrary to its name, pumpkin spice doesn’t actually contain pumpkin. Instead, it’s a warm, aromatic mix of spices traditionally used in pumpkin pie. The most dominant flavor is cinnamon, which provides that sweet and woody base.
Nutmeg adds a nutty, slightly sweet note, while ginger brings a subtle heat that balances the sweetness. Finally, cloves (and sometimes allspice) add depth with their bold, spicy bite. Together, these spices create the comforting fall flavor we all associate with pumpkin spice.
Role of Pumpkin Puree vs. Pumpkin Pie Spices in Flavor Profile
In a pumpkin spice latte recipe, both the pumpkin puree and the spice blend play important but different roles. Pumpkin puree adds a natural creaminess and a mild earthy sweetness, helping the latte feel rich and smooth. On its own, though, pumpkin has a very subtle flavor.
That’s where the spice blend steps in to create the signature pumpkin spice taste. Without cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, your latte would taste more like a simple pumpkin-flavored coffee. By combining real pumpkin puree with the classic pumpkin pie spices, you get a drink that feels indulgent, cozy, and perfectly balanced for the season.
FAQs on Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
What are the ingredients in a pumpkin spice latte?
A classic pumpkin spice latte recipe includes espresso or strong brewed coffee, steamed milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup (or another sweetener), and vanilla extract. Many people like to top it with whipped cream and a dusting of extra cinnamon or pumpkin spice for that coffee-shop finish.
What is really in a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte?
The Starbucks version of the pumpkin spice latte uses espresso, milk, pumpkin spice sauce (made with sugar, condensed skim milk, pumpkin puree, and flavorings), whipped cream, and a pumpkin spice topping. While it does contain some real pumpkin, most of the flavor and sweetness comes from syrups and added sugar. Compared to a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe, it’s much higher in sugar and contains extra additives.
Are pumpkin spice lattes healthy?
A store-bought PSL can be loaded with sugar and calories, but a homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe can be much healthier. By using real pumpkin puree, natural sweeteners like maple syrup, and a controlled amount of milk, you can enjoy all the cozy flavor without the sugar overload.
Homemade versions average around 130 calories, while a Starbucks grande PSL clocks in at nearly 380 calories.
What is the main ingredient in pumpkin spice?
Despite the name, pumpkin spice doesn’t actually contain pumpkin. The main ingredient is cinnamon, followed by nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These spices are what give the pumpkin spice latte recipe its warm, cozy, and unmistakable fall flavor.
Tips, Tricks & Final Thoughts
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When making a pumpkin spice latte recipe at home, a few mistakes can throw off the flavor. The first is using pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling already has sugar and spices, which can make your latte overly sweet and unbalanced. Another mistake is skipping the frothing step—the foam is what gives the latte its café-style texture. Also, be careful not to boil your milk; overheating can cause it to scorch and lose its creamy taste. Finally, don’t overload the spices. Pumpkin spice should be warming, not overwhelming. A balanced teaspoon of the blend is usually plenty for one serving.
Best Ways to Serve and Enjoy Your PSL
A homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe is meant to be savored. Serve it in a large mug, top with whipped cream, and dust with extra cinnamon for that coffee-shop feel. If you’re hosting, consider offering it alongside fall desserts like pumpkin bread, apple crisp, or cinnamon rolls. For an afternoon pick-me-up, pair it with a small snack, like roasted nuts or a granola bar. And if you love iced coffee, you can easily adapt the recipe into an iced pumpkin spice latte—just chill the coffee and milk, then pour over ice before topping with pumpkin spice. No matter how you serve it, this drink is the ultimate cozy companion for autumn mornings, crisp evenings, or even holiday gatherings.
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