Warm Pumpkin Pecan Chai

This pumpkin pecan chai latte brings together cozy fall spices and the nutty richness of pecan milk to create a comforting drink that feels like a warm hug in a mug. It’s perfect for slowing down with a good book on a crisp afternoon or impressing friends with an easy seasonal treat.

I first tried this recipe on a chilly autumn evening, and it immediately became my go-to when the leaves started turning. The balance of spices and sweetness won over even those who don’t usually reach for pumpkin-flavored drinks.

Ingredients

• Water: one and a quarter cups — the base for your chai, bringing out the tea’s flavors
• Chai tea bags: two — choose a quality brand with warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom for the best taste
• Brown sugar: four tablespoons — provides caramel-like sweetness that complements pumpkin perfectly
• Pumpkin: two tablespoons — brings seasonal earthiness and richness, use canned pumpkin puree without added spices or sugar if possible
• Pecan milk: half a cup — adds nutty creaminess, pick unsweetened if you want to control the sugar level
• Bourbon whipped cream: four tablespoons — a decadent finishing touch, you can find this ready-made or make your own with a splash of bourbon added to whipped cream

Instructions

Savor the Heat:

Heat one and a quarter cups of water in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a rolling boil at 212 degrees Fahrenheit. This sets the perfect temperature for steeping your chai.

Brew the Chai:

Divide the hot water evenly between two large mugs and place one chai tea bag in each. Let the tea steep for about eight minutes or until it is as strong as you like. Remove and discard the tea bags carefully to avoid bitterness.

Sweeten and Spice:

Add two tablespoons of brown sugar and one tablespoon of pumpkin puree to each mug. Stir thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely and the pumpkin blends smoothly into the chai.

Add Creamy Goodness:

Pour in a quarter cup of pecan milk to each mug, stirring gently to combine. This nut milk adds a lovely subtle flavor and makes the chai silky.

Top with Flair:

Crown each latte with two tablespoons of bourbon whipped cream for a rich, boozy finish that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.

I love how the pecan milk subtly changes the classic chai experience, adding a nutty depth that I didn’t expect but now can’t do without. One cozy night as I shared this latte with friends around the fireplace, the bourbon whipped cream sparked great conversations and laughter—it’s truly a drink that brings people together.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare), keep the chai base without whipped cream in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. For the best texture and flavor, add whipped cream fresh before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If pecan milk isn’t available use almond or cashew milk for a similar nutty taste or whole milk if you prefer a richer, creamier latte. Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a deeper sweetness and additional fall flavor. If bourbon whipped cream is not your thing, plain whipped cream with a dash of cinnamon makes a delightful alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This latte pairs beautifully with spiced cookies or gingerbread for a festive snack. Try enjoying it with a slice of pumpkin bread or buttery shortbread to enhance the cozy vibes.

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra cozy touch.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of milk works best for this latte?

Pecan milk offers a nutty flavor that complements the chai spices, but any nut milk or cow's milk can be used as a substitute.

→ How long should the chai tea steep?

Steeping the tea bags for about 8 minutes develops a rich, full-bodied chai flavor without bitterness.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Yes, brown sugar amounts can be increased or decreased according to personal taste preferences.

→ What role does the bourbon whipped cream play?

The bourbon whipped cream adds a creamy, slightly boozy finish that enhances the latte's depth and warmth.

→ Is there an alternative to brewing chai tea bags?

Loose leaf chai tea can be brewed with a tea maker or infuser for more control over strength and flavor complexity.