Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Name: Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup strong brewed coffee; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1/4 cup pumpkin puree; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream (optional); Chocolate shavings (optional)

Author: Charlotte Wagner

Published: 15 November 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like curling up with a steaming mug of a homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte as the leaves start to turn. I still remember the first time I whipped up this recipe; it was a chilly October morning, and I was determined to recreate my favorite café treat without the long line or hefty price tag.

What I discovered is that making pumpkin spice lattes at home is not only easy but tastes even better when you can customize it just how you like!

This Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe has become my autumn morning ritual. The rich blend of pumpkin, warm spices, and chocolate makes my whole kitchen smell incredible.

It’s become the drink my friends request when they visit during the fall, and honestly? I don’t blame them. With just a few simple ingredients and about 15 minutes, you can transform your basic coffee into something magical. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll never go back to store-bought pumpkin spice mixes again!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

This isn’t just any pumpkin spice latte, it’s the one you’ll crave all season long. Here’s why:

Faster than a coffee shop run: Ready in 15 minutes flat (no waiting in line!)
Your kitchen, your rules: Adjust the sweetness, spice level, or milk to your taste
That rich, cozy flavor: The cocoa powder adds depth most recipes miss
Real pumpkin goodness: No artificial syrups here, just honest-to-goodness pumpkin puree
Froth that lasts: Blending creates that café-style foam we all love

Trust me, your autumn mornings just got way better.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy autumn drink. I bet you have most of these in your pantry already! The key is using real pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for that authentic flavor. Here’s the full lineup:

1 cup strong brewed coffee: Or espresso if you’re feeling fancy!
1 cup milk: I use whole milk for creaminess, but oat milk works beautifully too
¼ cup pumpkin puree: The star of the show! (Libby’s is my go-to)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder: The secret ingredient that makes it extra special
1 tablespoon maple syrup: Or honey if you prefer
½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: Make your own blend if you can’t find it pre-mixed
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla makes all the difference
Whipped cream & chocolate shavings: Optional, but highly encouraged for maximum indulgence

See? Nothing too crazy, just simple ingredients that create magic when combined!

Equipment You’ll Need

Good news: You probably already have everything needed to make this cozy latte! Here’s the short list of essentials:

Small saucepan: For heating that dreamy pumpkin mixture
Whisk or spoon: To blend everything smoothly (no lumps allowed!)
Frother or blender: Creates that café-style foam we all crave
Measuring spoons & cups: Precision matters for the perfect balance
Your favorite mug: Because presentation is half the joy!

That’s it, no fancy equipment required. Now let’s make some magic!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte

Okay, let’s get to the fun part, turning these simple ingredients into liquid autumn magic! Don’t worry if you’re not a barista; this recipe is foolproof. Just follow these steps and you’ll be sipping café-quality pumpkin spice latte in no time.

Step 1: Heat the Pumpkin Mixture

First, grab your saucepan and set it over medium heat, not too hot! We’re aiming for warm and cozy, not scorched. Pour in your milk (I always splash a little extra because why not?), Then add the pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice.

Now comes the satisfying part, whisk it all together until it’s completely smooth and starting to steam. You’ll know it’s ready when tiny bubbles form around the edges, but don’t let it boil; that’s when milk gets grumpy and might curdle.

This usually takes about 3-4 minutes of gentle stirring while you inhale that amazing pumpkin spice aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 2: Blend for Frothiness

Here’s where the magic happens! Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (it’ll smell heavenly). Now, transfer your warm pumpkin mixture to a blender, or use an immersion blender right in the pan if you’re fancy like that.

Blend for about 15-20 seconds until it’s gloriously frothy. No blender? No problem! A good old-fashioned whisk and some vigorous arm action will give you decent foam too, just pretend you’re whipping up a storm! The goal is to create that rich, velvety texture that makes every sip feel indulgent.

Step 3: Assemble the Latte

Time for the grand finale! Pour your strong coffee into your favorite mug. I like mine in my chunky ceramic one that warms my hands. Then, slowly pour the frothy pumpkin mixture over the coffee.

Watch as they swirl together beautifully! Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling decadent (and let’s be honest, you should be), then sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cinnamon. The first sip will transport you straight to autumn heaven, rich, creamy, perfectly spiced, with just the right chocolatey depth.

Pro tip: grab a cozy blanket and enjoy immediately while it’s piping hot!

Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte

After making this recipe countless times (okay, maybe daily during fall), I’ve picked up some tricks to make your latte absolutely perfect every single time:

Milk matters: Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but oat milk froths beautifully for dairy-free
Sweetness control: Start with 1 tbsp maple syrup, then add more to taste after blending
No blender? No problem!: A French press works wonders for frothing, just pump the plunger!
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick that enhances the warmth
Keep it smooth: Strain the pumpkin mixture if you’re picky about texture
Temperature check: Heat to 150°F max to prevent curdling (warm to the touch, not hot)

Trust me, these little tweaks make all the difference between good and “oh-my-goodness” amazing!

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Latte

The beauty of homemade lattes? You can mix them up however you like! Here are my favorite ways to play with this recipe:

Dairy-free delight: Almond or coconut milk works great, and coconut cream makes an insanely rich topping
Extra caffeine kick: Swap the coffee for a shot (or two!) of espresso
Chocolate overload: Stir in a tablespoon of chocolate chips while heating the mixture
Spice explorer: Add cardamom or a star anise pod while heating for extra depth
Iced version: Let the pumpkin mixture cool, then pour over ice, perfect for warm fall days

Honestly? The possibilities are endless, make it your own!

Serving and Storage

This Pumpkin Spice Latte is absolute perfection when served piping hot right after making it, that’s when the froth is at its peak and the spices are most aromatic. If you’ve got leftovers (though I rarely do!), they’ll keep in the fridge for 1-2 days in an airtight container.

When reheating, go low and slow, microwave in 30-second bursts or warm gently on the stove while stirring. The texture might change slightly, but a quick blend brings back that lovely foam.

Pro tip: Make extra pumpkin mixture to refrigerate, it’s a lifesaver for busy mornings!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the scoop on what’s in this cozy drink, but remember, these are estimates and will vary based on your specific ingredients and how generous you are with the whipped cream! Per serving (without toppings), you’re looking at:

150 calories: A reasonable treat for those crisp fall mornings
12g sugar: Mostly from the natural maple syrup and milk
4g fat: The good kind that makes it creamy and satisfying
5g protein: Thanks to the milk keeping you full longer

Not bad for something that tastes this indulgent, right?

FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?

Oh goodness, no! Pumpkin pie filling has added sugars and spices that’ll throw off your whole balance. Stick with 100% pure pumpkin puree (I always have a few cans of Libby’s in my pantry during fall). The puree gives you that authentic pumpkin flavor without making your latte too sweet or cloying.

How can I make this completely dairy-free?

Easy peasy! Just swap regular milk for your favorite non-dairy version, oat milk froths beautifully and has a natural sweetness. For the whipped cream topping, coconut cream works wonders. Blend a chilled can of full-fat coconut milk (just the thick part) with a touch of maple syrup until fluffy; it’s heavenly!

My mixture seems lumpy, what did I do wrong?

No worries! This usually happens if you add the dry ingredients too quickly. Next time, whisk the cocoa powder with a splash of milk first to make a smooth paste before adding the rest. If you’ve got lumps now, just strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, problem solved!

Can I make a big batch ahead of time?

Absolutely! The pumpkin mixture keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days in a sealed container. When ready to serve, just reheat gently (don’t boil!) and give it a quick blend to revive the foam. The coffee is best freshly brewed, though, nobody likes day-old coffee!

Warm & Cozy Fall Recipes to Try Next

If you loved this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe, here are more comforting, pumpkin-filled, and fall-inspired treats your readers will want to sip or bake all season long.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread: Soft, moist pumpkin bread swirled with sweet cream cheese.
Easy Pumpkin Hand Pies: Flaky, sweet pumpkin-filled hand pies that taste like mini portable pies.
Pumpkin Pie Pudding Shots: A fun, creamy fall party treat inspired by classic pumpkin pie.

These cozy fall favorites pair perfectly with your homemade latte, save them to embrace pumpkin season all month long!

Time to Try This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

There you have it, everything you need to make the most delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte right in your own kitchen! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own.

Whether you stick to the classic version or put your own spin on it (maybe extra chocolate? A dash of bourbon for grown-up gatherings?), I’d love to hear how it turns out.

Drop a comment below to share your favorite variations or cozy latte moments, and tag me on Instagram. Nothing makes me happier than hearing how my recipes become part of your autumn traditions. Now go grab your favorite mug and get brewing, your perfect pumpkin spice moment awaits!