Easy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Okay, here we go! Let’s make some magic (and by magic, I mean the most comforting, fall-tastic drink you’ll ever have). This Easy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe is my go-to when the leaves start turning and I need a serious dose of cozy in my life. Forget those overpriced coffee shop versions – this one is way better, trust me. Plus, you can make it in your pajamas.
My hubby, bless his heart, is obsessed with this. Last year, I swear he went through a pumpkin spice latte phase that lasted until, like, January. He’d be all, “Honey, can you whip up one of those amazing PSLs?” And honestly? I didn’t mind. It’s so easy to make, and seeing him all happy with his mug makes my day. One time, I tried to be all fancy and use a different kind of pumpkin puree, and it was a DISASTER. He politely drank it, but I knew. Never again. This recipe? This is the one that stays.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
- Because it tastes like autumn in a mug, duh.
- You can control the sweetness! No more sugary coffee shop concoctions.
- It’s way cheaper than hitting up Starbucks every day. Hello, extra money for cute fall sweaters!
- You get to wear your pajamas while making it. ‘Nuff said.
How to Make It
Okay, so first, we’re gonna get our pumpkin spice situation going. Grab a saucepan – a small one is fine, no need to get all fancy. Throw in your pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling, big difference!), some sugar (brown sugar is my fave, but white works too!), and that magical pumpkin pie spice. Oh, and a pinch of salt. Don’t forget the salt! It brings out all the flavors.
Now, heat that up over medium heat. You want it to get all bubbly and fragrant, like you just walked into a pumpkin patch. Stir it constantly – don’t let it burn! Burnt pumpkin spice is not a good smell, trust me.
Once it’s all bubbly and delicious-smelling, pour in your milk. Any kind of milk works – I usually use almond milk because that’s what I have on hand, but regular milk, oat milk, whatever floats your boat. Whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth.
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Now, for the coffee! You can use brewed coffee, espresso, whatever you like. Just pour it into your mug, top it with that glorious pumpkin spice milk, and then, the best part: whipped cream! And a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice, because why not?
Ingredient Notes
- Pumpkin Puree: NOT pumpkin pie filling! I learned this the hard way. It’s the plain, unflavored stuff.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: You can buy this pre-made, or you can make your own! Just google it – there are tons of recipes. Or, you know, just wing it. That’s what I usually do.
- Brown Sugar: I love the molasses-y flavor it adds, but white sugar works too. Don’t sweat it if you don’t have brown sugar.
- Milk: Any kind! Almond, oat, soy, cow… whatever you like. I’ve even used coconut milk in a pinch. It gives it a slightly different flavor, but it’s still yummy.
- Coffee/Espresso: Strong coffee is the key! Don’t wimp out. If you use weak coffee, your latte will taste like pumpkin-flavored water.
Recipe Steps:
- Combine: In a small saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Heat: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until bubbly and fragrant.
- Whisk: Pour in milk and whisk until smooth.
- Pour: Pour coffee or espresso into a mug.
- Top: Add pumpkin spice milk to the coffee.
- Garnish: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
What to Serve It With
Ugh, everything! Honestly, this latte goes with anything fall-related. Think pumpkin bread, apple cider donuts, or even just a cozy blanket and a good book.
Tips & Mistakes
- Don’t burn the pumpkin spice mixture! Keep stirring, keep stirring, keep stirring!
- If your latte isn’t sweet enough, add a little more sugar. Taste as you go!
- If you don’t have whipped cream, don’t worry about it. It’s still delicious without it. Although… whipped cream.
- Don’t use too much pumpkin puree or it will get gritty!
Storage Tips
Okay, so if you have leftover pumpkin spice milk (which is rare in my house!), you can store it in the fridge for a couple of days. Just make sure to whisk it before you use it again, because it might separate a little. And honestly? Cold pumpkin spice latte is surprisingly good. I’ve totally had it for breakfast. No regrets.
Variations and Substitutions
- Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup instead of sugar? Go for it! I’ve used both when I was out of sugar.
- Milk: Like I said, any kind of milk works. Even coconut milk if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can use cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Just mix them all together until it smells right.
- Espresso who?: Don’t have an espresso machine? Strong brewed coffee works just fine.
- No Whipped Cream: Eh, no biggie.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Easy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups milk whole milk or any preferred milk alternative
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree unsweetened
- 1 tablespoon sugar adjust to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups strong coffee freshly brewed
- 0.25 cups whipped cream for topping, optional
- 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, and sugar. Cook until hot, but do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and coffee.
- Pour mixture into two mugs. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon, if desired.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
