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Cozy Copycat Pumpkin Spice Latte: Easy Homemade Recipe

pumpkin spice latte - featured image

This copycat pumpkin spice latte with real pumpkin puree is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a secret. It’s simple enough for a weekday morning but special enough to serve to guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended, or 2% or oat milk)
  • ½ cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Brew your coffee or espresso: Start by brewing 2 shots of espresso or ½ cup of strong coffee. Set it aside.
  2. Combine milk and pumpkin puree: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree. Whisk continuously until the pumpkin is fully incorporated and there are no lumps, about 1 minute.
  3. Add spices and sweetener: Whisk in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or brown sugar. Add a tiny pinch of salt. Continue whisking as the mixture heats up.
  4. Heat until steaming: Keep whisking gently until the mixture is steaming hot but not boiling, about 3 to 4 minutes. Do not let it boil.
  5. Froth the milk (optional): Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend for 15 seconds, or use a handheld frother directly in the saucepan. Let cool for a minute if using a blender.
  6. Combine with coffee: Pour the brewed coffee or espresso into your mug. Slowly pour the hot pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee. Stir gently to combine.
  7. Top and serve: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top, if desired. Sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon over the cream. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best texture, make sure your pumpkin puree is well-stirred before measuring. If using dairy-free milk, choose barista-style for better frothing. Don’t skip the salt—it makes a surprising difference. If your latte tastes grainy, you probably didn’t whisk the pumpkin puree enough. If it’s too sweet, start with 1 tablespoon of sweetener and adjust to taste. If it’s not pumpkin-y enough, add an extra tablespoon of puree next time.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin spice latte, copycat, homemade, pumpkin puree, fall drink, coffee, cozy