A homemade pumpkin spice latte is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite fall coffee without heading to a coffee shop. Made with espresso, creamy milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla, and warm pumpkin pie spices, this easy recipe comes together in just a few minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
This pumpkin spice latte has everything you want from a classic fall drink: creamy milk, strong coffee, real pumpkin, and warming spices. The maple syrup adds sweetness while vanilla rounds out the flavor.
You can make it hot for a cozy morning drink or pour it over ice for an easy iced pumpkin spice latte.
Ingredients
Serves 2
For the pumpkin spice latte
- 2 cups milk of your choice
- 2 shots espresso, or ½ cup strong brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For serving
- Whipped cream, optional
- Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon, for sprinkling
- Maple syrup, optional
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Two mugs
- Espresso machine or coffee maker
Instructions
Step 1: Warm the milk
Pour the milk into a small saucepan and warm it over medium-low heat. Do not let it boil.
Step 2: Add the pumpkin and spices
Whisk in the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.
Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and hot.
Step 3: Add vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Prepare the coffee
Brew two shots of espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, use ½ cup of strong brewed coffee instead.
Step 5: Combine
Divide the espresso between two mugs. Pour the warm pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee and stir well.
Step 6: Add toppings
Top with whipped cream if desired and sprinkle with a little pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.
Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Use real pumpkin puree for a richer pumpkin flavor.
- Don’t boil the milk because it can affect the texture.
- Use freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.
- Froth the milk before combining it with the coffee for a coffee-shop-style texture.
- Add extra cinnamon if you prefer a stronger warm-spice flavor.
How to Make an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte
To make an iced version, prepare the pumpkin milk mixture as directed and allow it to cool slightly.
Fill two glasses with ice, divide the espresso between them, and pour the pumpkin mixture over the top. Stir well and finish with cold foam or whipped cream if desired.
Easy Variations
Oat Milk Pumpkin Spice Latte
Replace the regular milk with oat milk for a creamy, slightly sweet latte.
Vanilla Pumpkin Spice Latte
Add an extra ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for a stronger vanilla flavor.
Maple Pumpkin Spice Latte
Increase the maple syrup slightly for a richer maple-and-pumpkin combination.
Dairy-Free Pumpkin Spice Latte
Use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
Storage
For the best flavor and texture, make pumpkin spice lattes fresh and serve immediately. If you prepare extra pumpkin milk mixture, refrigerate it in an airtight container and use it within 2 days. Reheat gently and whisk before serving.
Final Thoughts
This homemade pumpkin spice latte recipe is an easy way to bring cozy fall coffee-shop flavors into your kitchen. Real pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice create a rich and creamy drink that’s perfect for crisp autumn mornings.
Whether you enjoy it hot with whipped cream or iced over plenty of ice, this homemade latte is an easy fall favorite.
