Name: The Best Pumpkin Spice Latte
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup strong hot coffee or 2 shots espresso; 2 cups milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy); 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (canned or homemade); 1 tablespoon sugar or maple syrup (or more to taste); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus more for serving; Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

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This homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte is cozy, creamy, and everything you love about fall in a mug. Made with real pumpkin puree, warm spices, and your choice of milk, it rivals any coffee shop version—without the long line or high price tag. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for chilly mornings or relaxing afternoons.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a pumpkin spice latte to kick off the fall season. This version is made with simple, wholesome ingredients and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Whether you use dairy or plant-based milk, sugar or maple syrup, this drink comes together quickly and tastes just like (or better than) your favorite café version. Plus, it uses real pumpkin puree for authentic flavor and richness.

The Best Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup strong hot coffee or 2 shots espresso
2 cups milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
1 tablespoon sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus more for topping
Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Directions

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, and sugar. Stir frequently and heat until the milk is hot but not boiling.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and brewed coffee or espresso. Whisk until fully combined and frothy.
Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level if needed.
Divide the mixture between two mugs.
Top each with whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 drinks.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Iced version: Let the mixture cool slightly, pour over ice, and skip the whipped cream or use a cold foam topping.
Stronger coffee flavor: Use more coffee or espresso, or replace some of the milk with coffee.
Sugar-free: Use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to reduce sugar content.
Extra creamy: Use full-fat coconut milk or oat milk for a richer texture.
Spice blend: Adjust the spice level or add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for more depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir before serving.

Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended due to the milk content, which may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Yes, homemade or canned pumpkin puree both work great. Just make sure it’s plain pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.

What kind of milk works best?

Any milk works—dairy, almond, oat, soy, or coconut. For extra creaminess, use whole milk or barista-style non-dairy milk.

Can I make this in a microwave?

Yes. Combine the milk, pumpkin, and sweetener in a microwave-safe mug and heat until hot. Stir in the rest of the ingredients and top as desired.

Is there caffeine in this latte?

Yes, from the coffee or espresso. You can use decaf if you prefer a caffeine-free version.

Can I make a bigger batch?

Absolutely. Double or triple the recipe and store extra portions in the fridge to reheat later.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which may make the latte too sweet or overly spiced.

How do I make it frothy?

Use a whisk, hand frother, or immersion blender to add froth after mixing all ingredients together.

Can I skip the whipped cream?

Of course! It’s optional, but adds a fun coffee shop touch. You can also use a dairy-free version.

Can I use cold brew coffee?

Yes, for an iced version. Combine all ingredients and pour over ice.

What’s in pumpkin pie spice?

It usually includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves or allspice. You can make your own if needed.

Conclusion

The Best Pumpkin Spice Latte is a quick, comforting drink that brings warm seasonal flavor into your home with minimal effort. Customizable and made with real ingredients, it’s the perfect cozy pick-me-up for crisp mornings or cozy nights in. Skip the coffee shop and enjoy this homemade favorite any time you crave that classic fall flavor.