Homemade pumpkin spice syrup is an easy way to bring cozy fall flavor to coffee, lattes, tea, pancakes, and desserts. Made with pumpkin puree, maple syrup, brown sugar, and warm spices, this simple syrup comes together on the stovetop in just a few minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
This pumpkin spice syrup has the perfect balance of sweetness, pumpkin flavor, and warming spices. Brown sugar gives it a rich caramel-like taste, while cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves create that familiar pumpkin spice flavor.
It is also easy to adjust depending on how sweet or spicy you like your drinks.
Ingredients
Makes about 1 ½ cups
- 1 cup water
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Glass jar or airtight container
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the ingredients
Add the water, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt to a small saucepan.
Whisk everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Simmer the syrup
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling vigorously, as the syrup can become too thick and may scorch.
Step 3: Add the vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Let the syrup cool for a few minutes.
Step 4: Strain
Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean glass jar.
Press gently with a spoon to extract the liquid, leaving behind any larger pieces of pumpkin or spices.
Step 5: Cool and store
Allow the syrup to cool completely before sealing the jar.
Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How to Use Pumpkin Spice Syrup
Add 1–2 tablespoons to your favorite drinks or desserts.
Try it in:
- Homemade pumpkin spice lattes
- Iced coffee
- Cold brew
- Hot chocolate
- Chai tea
- Apple cider
- Pancakes and waffles
- French toast
- Vanilla ice cream
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Syrup
- Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Adjust the spices to your preference. Add extra cinnamon for a warmer flavor or more ginger for additional spice.
- Don’t boil the syrup too aggressively because the pumpkin can stick to the bottom of the pan.
- Strain the syrup for a smoother texture in coffee and other drinks.
- Let it cool completely before refrigerating.
- Shake or stir before using because some pumpkin solids may settle.
Storage
Store homemade pumpkin spice syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use it within about 1 week. Because this recipe contains pumpkin puree, keep it refrigerated and discard it if you notice an off smell, appearance, or flavor.
Final Thoughts
This homemade pumpkin spice syrup recipe is an easy way to enjoy your favorite fall flavors at home. Pumpkin puree, maple syrup, brown sugar, and warm spices create a rich syrup that’s perfect for everything from morning coffee to weekend pancakes.
Make a batch at the beginning of pumpkin season and keep it refrigerated so you can add a little fall flavor to your favorite drinks and treats whenever you want.
