How to Make The Best Pumpkin Spice Latte
Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte is the ultimate fall treat that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home. A Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte is $5.75. On average that is 69.00 per month if you buy it 3 times a week.
Hey and not only that you should not have to step out of your house to get this cozy and creamy drink.
In this post. I’m going to show you exactly how to make your own Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte.
You’re welcome!
How to Make a Starbucks Copycat Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your own Starbucks-style Pumpkin Spice Latte, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Spice Syrup:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of sugar (you can use brown or granulated)
- 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (or make your own blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the Latte:
- 2 shots of espresso (or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee)
- 1 cup of milk (use whole milk for a creamy texture, or substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk)
- 2-3 tablespoons of the pumpkin spice syrup (adjust to taste)
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Extra pumpkin pie spice for dusting
While the original version is a seasonal staple at Starbucks, making it at home is simple, cost-effective, and customizable to your taste. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this recipe will give you the same cozy, flavorful experience—without the trip to the café.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Spice Syrup
The syrup is the key to getting that signature flavor. Here’s how to make it:
- In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, stirring until well combined.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Remove the syrup from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pumpkin bits, then pour it into a jar. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Step 2: Prepare the Espresso or Coffee
If you have an espresso machine, brew 2 shots of espresso. If you don’t, you can use a French press or a coffee maker to brew a half-cup of strong coffee.
Step 3: Froth the Milk
Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s steaming, but not boiling. If you have a milk frother, use it to froth the milk for that café-style texture. If not, you can use a whisk to vigorously stir the milk until it becomes frothy.
Step 4: Assemble Your Latte
In your favorite mug, pour in the espresso or coffee. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the pumpkin spice syrup, depending on how sweet and flavorful you want your latte. Stir until combined. Next, pour in the steamed milk, holding back the froth with a spoon. Once the milk is in, spoon the froth on top.
Step 5: Add Whipped Cream and Spices
Top your latte with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch, and dust it with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice. Now, your homemade Starbucks copycat Pumpkin Spice Latte is ready to enjoy!
Tips for Customizing Your Latte
- Sugar-Free: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can substitute the sugar in the syrup with a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or stevia.
- Dairy-Free: Almond, oat, or soy milk works perfectly in this recipe, and you can use a non-dairy whipped cream.
- Extra Spices: If you love the spices in your latte, feel free to increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice in the syrup or sprinkle extra cinnamon on top.
Enjoy Fall in a Cup
There you have it—your very own Starbucks-inspired Pumpkin Spice Latte, without having to leave home.
Whether you’re sipping it while bundled up on the couch or taking it to go, this latte will give you all the fall vibes and flavors you crave.
Let us know if you tried this recipe and happy sipping!