Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

This pumpkin spice latte recipe brings the cozy flavors of autumn right into your kitchen. Inspired by the classic Starbucks favorite, it combines rich espresso with creamy milk and a homemade pumpkin syrup that’s both simple and delicious. It’s perfect for chilly mornings or whenever you need a little seasonal pick-me-up.

I first made this on a crisp fall afternoon and now it’s my go-to treat to share with friends on weekend brunches.

Ingredients

• Espresso or very strong coffee: Two shots of freshly brewed espresso or very strong coffee for that authentic robust base
• Milk: One and a half cups of whole milk or your preferred milk to add creaminess and richness
• Pumpkin puree: Two tablespoons of pumpkin puree NOT pumpkin pie filling to keep the flavor pure and natural
• Packed brown sugar: Two tablespoons for deep caramel notes
• Granulated sugar: One tablespoon to balance the spices
• Pumpkin pie spice: Half a teaspoon to give that signature autumn warmth, adjust if you like it more or less spiced
• Vanilla extract: Half a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to enhance sweetness and add complexity
• Cornstarch slurry OPTIONAL: Half a teaspoon cornstarch mixed with one tablespoon cold water to thicken the syrup in case you want it richer
• Water: Two tablespoons to help dissolve sugars and blend ingredients smoothly
• Fine sea salt: A pinch to round out and intensify flavors
• Whipped cream: For topping because every great latte deserves a creamy flourish

Instructions

Scoop and Brew Espresso or Coffee:

Brew two shots approximately two fluid ounces of espresso or make a very strong coffee and keep it hot for mixing later

Combine and Simmer Pumpkin Syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine pumpkin puree brown sugar granulated sugar pumpkin pie spice water and salt. Heat over medium stirring until sugar dissolves and it almost simmers gently which takes about two to three minutes

Thicken Syrup if Desired:

If you want a thicker pumpkin syrup mix cornstarch with cold water then stir into the simmering mix and cook for an extra minute until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract for aroma and flavor depth

Heat and Froth Milk:

Warm your milk on the stove or in the microwave until steaming but not boiling. For a latte texture froth your milk using a milk frother or shake vigorously in a sealed jar or blend for about 20 seconds to create foam

Assemble the Latte:

Pour the hot espresso into your mug then spoon in the pumpkin syrup to your liking usually all of it. Stir well so the syrup dissolves fully into the coffee

Add Milk and Foam:

Pour the warmed milk into the mug holding back the foam with a spoon then add the foam on top carefully for that perfect latte presentation and if you want a touch of crema pour slowly

Finish with Whipped Cream and Spice Dusting:

Top your latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Dust with extra pumpkin pie spice for that final festive touch. Taste and add a bit more brown sugar if you prefer it sweeter

Serve Immediately and Store Leftovers:

Enjoy your latte right away for best flavor. If you have leftover pumpkin syrup store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before using again

Pumpkin puree is my favorite ingredient here because it carries all the essence of fall without overpowering the drink. I remember the first time I made this for a friend who never liked pumpkin anything and she was hooked immediately. It’s proof that the right mix of spices and sweet can win over even skeptics.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pumpkin syrup in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Always reheat gently rather than boiling to preserve the flavor and texture. You can freeze the syrup in ice cube trays for longer storage and thaw as needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond or oat milk if you prefer dairy-free options. Adjust sweetness by swapping brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer taste. Pumpkin pie spice can be replaced with a mix of cinnamon nutmeg and ginger if you don’t have it on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a freshly baked cinnamon roll or a slice of apple bread for the perfect autumn breakfast pairing. This latte is great as an afternoon treat when you want a little sweetness and caffeine boost.

Enjoy this cozy pumpkin spice latte warm for the best flavor. It’s an easy coffeehouse treat you can make at home all season long.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of coffee works best for this latte?

Freshly brewed espresso is ideal for a rich flavor, but very strong brewed coffee from a moka pot or French press can be used as an alternative.

→ Can I make the pumpkin syrup thicker?

Yes, adding a cornstarch slurry during simmering helps thicken the pumpkin syrup for a richer consistency.

→ What milk options work in this latte?

Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use milk alternatives like almond, oat, or soy milk according to preference.

→ How do I create frothy milk without a frother?

Shake heated milk vigorously in a sealed jar or blend for about 20 seconds to achieve frothiness without a frother.

→ What spices complement the pumpkin flavor?

A blend of pumpkin pie spice, which typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, enhances the warm, autumnal profile.

→ How should leftover pumpkin syrup be stored?

Store any extra syrup in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week, reheating gently before use.