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Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte with Real Pumpkin

homemade pumpkin spice latte - featured image

This homemade pumpkin spice latte uses real pumpkin puree for a velvety texture and authentic flavor, coming together in under 10 minutes. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing fall drink that’s better than any coffee shop version.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk for creamiest, or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 shot espresso or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee (dark roast recommended)
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
  • Extra pumpkin pie spice (for dusting, optional)
  • Cinnamon stick (for stirring, optional)

Instructions

  1. Make your coffee: Brew 1/2 cup of strong coffee or pull a shot of espresso. Set aside.
  2. Whisk the pumpkin base: In a small saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Add the milk: Pour in the milk and whisk again to combine.
  4. Heat gently: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk occasionally until hot but not boiling, about 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce heat if it starts to simmer.
  5. Froth if desired: Remove from heat and froth the milk using a frother or by shaking in a jar with a tight lid for 20 to 30 seconds.
  6. Combine and serve: Pour the coffee into a mug, then pour the pumpkin milk over it. Stir gently. Top with whipped cream, a dusting of pumpkin pie spice, and a cinnamon stick if desired.
  7. Taste and adjust: Add more maple syrup for sweetness or extra pumpkin pie spice for more flavor, as desired.

Notes

For best results, use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Blend the pumpkin with the milk first to avoid a grainy texture. A dark roast coffee stands up well to the pumpkin flavor. Leftover pumpkin milk can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. For an iced version, let the milk mixture cool before pouring over ice.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin spice latte, homemade latte, pumpkin coffee, fall drink, real pumpkin latte, easy latte recipe