87% would make this again

Pumpkin Spice Latte Drink

Q: How do you make a homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte?

To make it at home, heat milk with pumpkin puree, brown sugar, homemade pumpkin pie spice and vanilla until warm and smooth, froth it then pour over strong coffee or espresso in a mug. Whip the milk gently so it becomes creamy and pour it slowly over the coffee, finishing with a dash of spice or whipped cream if you like. This gives you a rich fall flavoured latte without needing pre-made syrup.

Q: What ingredients do I need for a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

You’ll need milk (whole or creamy plant milk works best), pumpkin puree (not pie filling), a sweetener like brown sugar or maple syrup, vanilla extract, strong coffee or espresso and pumpkin pie spice made from cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves. These staple ingredients deliver the classic cosy taste most recipes and baristas recommend.

Q: Can you make Pumpkin Spice Latte without pumpkin puree?

Sure you can, many people skip pumpkin puree and just use the spice blend with milk and sweetener and it still tastes great because the spices give that familiar pumpkin-pie flavour. Using pumpkin puree adds authenticity and creaminess but if you run out of pumpkin it’s perfectly fine to make a spiced latte without it.

Q: What milk is best for a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Creamier milks like whole dairy milk or oat milk tend to make the richest smoothest latte with foam that feels closer to what you’d get in a café. Thinner milks still work but they don’t froth as well and can make the drink feel less rich.

Q: How much pumpkin pie spice should I use in a latte?

Most recipes call for around a quarter to half a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for one serving or you can mix a small homemade blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves to taste. Start with a smaller amount and add more if you want a stronger spice flavour without it being overpowering.

Q: Can I use brewed coffee instead of espresso for a Pumpkin Spiced Latte?

Yup, strong brewed coffee can be used in place of espresso and still makes a tasty latte. Just make it stronger than usual so the coffee flavour doesn’t get lost under the milk and spices. Espresso gives a richer and more concentrated flavour but brewed coffee works well for a homemade version.

Q: How do I froth milk for a Pumpkin Spice Latte at home?

You can use a milk frother if you have one or heat the milk then whisk vigorously, use a French press to pump air into the warmed milk or even shake it in a tightly sealed jar then heat it briefly. The goal is to get small bubbles and creamy foam that sits on top of the latte.

Vish G

December 30, 2025

The Pumpkin Spice Latte Drink is the kind of treat that makes mornings feel less serious and a lot more fun. It tastes like fall showed up early and brought a Starbucks coffee but better. With these techniques, you’ll get a rich ‘n’ creamy latte with the signature fall flavour and a smooth café-style foam. We’re pretty sure that you’ll want to make this again before your mug is even empty.

PREP TIME

5 MIN

COOK TIME

5 MIN

SERVINGS

Ingredients

1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or oat milk
1 to 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup, adjust to taste
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Small pinch of salt
1/2 cup (120 ml) strong brewed coffee or 1 to 2 shots espresso
Optional: whipped cream for topping
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/16 teaspoon ground ginger
1/16 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Tiny pinch ground cloves

Instructions

In a small bowl mix together the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves until evenly combined, then set aside.
Add the milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, homemade pumpkin spice mix, vanilla extract and salt to a small saucepan.
Heat gently over medium low heat, whisking often, until hot, smooth and slightly steamy but not boiling.
Remove from the heat and froth the mixture using a milk frother, blender or whisk until lightly foamy.
Pour the hot coffee or espresso into a large mug.
Slowly pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee, spooning foam on top if desired.
Finish with whipped cream if using and a very light sprinkle of cinnamon.
Serve immediately and enjoy while warm and creamy.