Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

This cozy pumpkin spice latte recipe captures the warmth of fall in a cup, bringing that beloved Starbucks-inspired flavor right to your kitchen. It features a rich blend of espresso, pumpkin puree, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness, all finished with creamy milk foam and whipped cream. It’s perfect for anyone craving a festive and comforting coffee treat at home.

I first tried this when I wanted that seasonal favorite without going out on a chilly day. Now it’s my go to for cozy weekends, and friends always ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Two shots of freshly brewed espresso or very strong coffee: important for authentic bold flavor espresso beans freshly ground yield best results if possible
• One and a half cups whole milk or choice of milk: to provide creamy texture and rich mouthfeel whole milk is ideal but almond or oat milk work well too
• Two tablespoons pumpkin puree: not the sweetened pumpkin pie filling to keep the pumpkin flavor pure and natural
• Two tablespoons packed brown sugar: offers deep caramel sweet notes that balance spices
• One tablespoon granulated sugar: adds brightness and helps dissolve the spices
• Half teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: packs the signature fall warming flavor look for a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves
• Half teaspoon pure vanilla extract: enhances and smooths all the flavors together
• Half teaspoon cornstarch mixed with one tablespoon cold water: optional thickener that adds body to the pumpkin syrup
• Two tablespoons water: needed to dissolve sugar and simmer pumpkin
• A pinch of fine sea salt: amplifies the overall flavor profile
• Whipped cream for topping: adds creaminess and a festive touch

Instructions

Savor the Espresso:

Brew two shots of espresso or prepare very strong coffee using your preferred method. Keep it hot to blend seamlessly with the pumpkin syrup and milk in the next steps.

Simmer the Pumpkin Syrup:

In a small saucepan combine pumpkin puree, packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, water, and sea salt. Heat over medium stirring gently until the sugars dissolve. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for about two to three minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and infuses the spices deeply.

Add Thickness if Desired:

If you want a richer syrup, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering pumpkin mixture and cook for another minute until the syrup slightly thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, which adds a lovely aromatic finish.

Warm and Froth the Milk:

Heat the milk on the stove or microwave until steaming hot but not boiling. For a latte-style foam, use a milk frother, shake vigorously in a sealed jar, or blitz in a blender for around twenty seconds. This creates that luxurious creamy layer typical of a latte.

Combine Espresso and Syrup:

Pour the hot espresso into your serving mug. Spoon in the pumpkin syrup, typically all of it for full flavor, and stir thoroughly so the syrup dissolves evenly throughout the coffee base.

Add Milk and Foam:

Pour the warmed milk into the mug slowly, holding back the foam initially with a spoon. Then carefully spoon or pour the foam on top to create distinct layers. Pouring carefully can also develop a thin crema layer, enhancing the coffee’s appearance and texture.

Garnish and Enjoy:

Top your latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Dust lightly with extra pumpkin pie spice for visual appeal and an extra spice kick. Taste and add a little more brown sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Serve immediately while warm and inviting.

The pumpkin puree is my favorite part because it brings that authentic homemade vibe while keeping the drink fresh and vibrant. I remember my first attempt when I carefully balanced the spices, realizing that the vanilla extract was the secret to smoothing those deep flavors into a perfect cup.

Storage tips

Keep leftover pumpkin syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to one week. Reheat gently to preserve the flavors without burning. The espresso is best made fresh, but the syrup can be prepared in advance to speed up your morning routine.

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap whole milk for oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option. Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar for a different caramel note. If you do not have espresso, use very strong brewed coffee but adjust the quantity to keep the latte balanced.

Serving suggestions

Pair this latte with cinnamon sugar donuts or spiced pumpkin muffins for a complete seasonal indulgence. It also goes beautifully with a slice of pecan pie or apple crisp for dessert after dinner.

Serve immediately while warm for the best texture and aroma. Enjoy this cozy homemade pumpkin spice latte with a dusting of spice and a swirl of whipped cream.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, very strong brewed coffee like French press or AeroPress works well as a substitute for espresso in this latte.

→ How can I make the pumpkin syrup thicker?

Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and cold water to the simmering pumpkin mixture and cook an additional minute until slightly thickened.

→ What type of milk is recommended?

Whole milk is suggested for creaminess, but you can use milk alternatives like oat or almond milk as preferred.

→ How do I froth milk without a frother?

You can shake warm milk vigorously in a sealed jar or blend it to create foam if a milk frother is unavailable.

→ Can I prepare pumpkin syrup ahead of time?

Yes, store leftover pumpkin syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week and reheat gently before use.

→ What spices are used in the pumpkin syrup?

The syrup includes pumpkin pie spice, which typically contains cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger for warm autumn flavor.