I won't deny it—I wait for pumpkin spice season all year long. If you're looking to take advantage of the pumpkin spice craze, simply can't wait for the season to start, or want to skip those long lines, then this pumpkin spice latte will satisfy all those cravings right at home. Making your own pumpkin spice latte at home is dangerously easy, and so much faster than waiting in the drive-thru. You don't need any fancy coffee equipment to make these homemade lattes—all you need are a few fall kitchen staples and your coffee to create this pumpkin-lover's dream. Here's everything you need to know:
How To Make A Pumpkin Spice Latte
INGREDIENTS
PHOTO: PHILIP FRIEDMAN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
- Whole Milk: As far as milks go, you have a few options. Whole milk works best to get a frothy latte, but you can still use other alternatives. 2% milk will still get nice and frothy, but simply won't taste as creamy as whole milk. If you would rather substitute in a milk alternative, I recommend almond or oat milk. They will both foam up well, but might take a little longer than whole milk would.
- Pumpkin Purée: Of course, this is where the pumpkin flavor comes from. Need to use up the rest of that can? Checkout our list of pumpkin purée recipes.
- Maple Syrup: This is my go-to choice for sweetening a PSL. If you like your latte a little more or less sweet, feel free to adjust.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Pumpkin spice is just a fun name for a combination of all the classic warm spices often present in pumpkin pie. I love our pumpkin spice and keep it on hand all season long! The best part? If there's a particular spice you aren't a huge fan of, then you can leave it out or reduce the amount! It's your spice mix now, friend.
- Vanilla Extract: A little bit of vanilla balances out the pumpkin flavor.
- Coffee: For your coffee, you can use espresso or brewed coffee—use espresso if you're looking to make a classic latte, but use coffee if you're in a pinch (or if espresso isn't really your thing).
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Grab a saucepan, then whisk together milk, pumpkin, maple syrup, spice, and vanilla extract over medium heat. Cook the mixture while whisking constantly until the mixture is warmed, then it’s time to create the froth.
PHOTO: PHILIP FRIEDMAN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Grab an immersion blender, then blend the mixture until very frothy.
PHOTO: PHILIP FRIEDMAN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Whether you’re using espresso or coffee, pour it into your mug, then top with the pumpkin-spice foamed milk. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for the perfect cherry on top.
PHOTO: PHILIP FRIEDMAN; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE
Full list of ingredients & instructions can be found in the recipe below.
Recipe Tips
- How to create latte foam. An immersion blender is the easiest way to achieve that latte foam at home if you don't have a milk frother. If you don't have one, though, you still have a couple options. You can heat your milk mixture and then whisk vigorously for about 1 minute to get foam. 100% worth the arm workout! Alternatively, you can skip the foam and add whipped cream instead! Still heat your milk mixture, then pour into your mug and top with a hearty amount of whipped cream for a more luxurious latte.
What To Serve With A Pumpkin Spice Latte