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Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe

Mastering the Pumpkin Spice Latte: Step-By-Step Guide

I'll explain a simple way to make this drink at home. If you don't have an espresso machine, don't worry! You can use a regular coffee maker or a French Press.
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Total Time 10 minutes

Equipment

  • Espresso machine or coffee maker/French press
  • Milk frother (optional) or whisk
  • Small saucepan for heating milk and pumpkin spice mixture
  • A mug, of course

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based—coconut milk gives it a fun twist!)
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
  • 1-2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (or sweetener of choice)
  • ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream and extra pumpkin spice for topping (optional, but highly recommended)

Instructions
 

  • Brew your coffee or espresso: If you have an espresso machine, pull 1-2 shots. Otherwise, brew about ½ cup of strong coffee using your coffee maker or French press. I recommend making it slightly stronger than usual to balance the sweetness of the latte.
  • Prepare the pumpkin spice mixture: In a small saucepan, heat the pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice over medium heat. Then stir frequently for about 30 seconds, just until the spices are fragrant and everything's combined.
  • Add the milk and vanilla: Slowly whisk in your milk and vanilla extract. Let it heat up, but don't let it boil—just get it to the point where steam starts to rise. If you're using a milk frother, froth the milk until it's light and creamy.
  • Combine: Pour your brewed coffee or espresso into a mug, then add the pumpkin-spiced milk mixture. Stir gently to combine.
  • Top it off: Now, for the fun part—add a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top. This takes it from "pretty good" to "wow, I made this?"

Video

Notes

If you want to take your Pumpkin Spice Latte up a notch, try adding a little cinnamon syrup or swapping regular milk for oat milk. It gives the drink a creamier texture and adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spice.