There’s something truly comforting about a warm, spicy drink that smells like fall itself. This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe brings that cozy café feeling right into your kitchen, with none of the long lines or extra cost. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to whip one up anytime pumpkin season calls.

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I love the simplicity and authentic pumpkin flavor in this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe—it’s not overly sweet, but just perfectly spiced to bring a little joy to your day. Every time I make it, it feels like a warm hug in a mug.

Simple Ingredients: You can find everything in your pantry or local store, no fancy syrups needed.
Quick to Make: Takes less than 10 minutes to have a café-worthy latte right at home.
Customizable Flavor: Adjust the sugar and spices to suit your own pumpkin spice cravings.
Cozy and Inviting: Perfect for chilly mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up with a seasonal twist.

Two clear glass mugs are filled with a light brown pumpkin spice drink, each topped with a thick layer of white whipped cream swirled in a circular pattern. A brown cinnamon stick is placed upright in the whipped cream of each mug. The drinks sit on a white marbled surface that has some sprinkled cinnamon powder around them. Nearby, a small clear bowl contains white cream, and a tall glass bottle filled with a brown pumpkin spice sauce is labeled with black and white stickers. A few more brown cinnamon sticks lie scattered on the surface near the bottle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe plays an important role in balancing rich, warm flavors with creamy texture. Getting the right milk and pumpkin puree makes all the difference, and the pumpkin pie spice ties everything together beautifully.

Flat lay of a small bowl of bright orange pumpkin puree, a heap of granulated white sugar crystals, a glass bottle of creamy whole milk, a small jar of vanilla extract with a wooden cork, a small mound of warm brown pumpkin pie spice powder, a dark brewed coffee in a clear glass cup, a swirl of smooth whipped cream, and a small pitcher of pale vanilla creamer, all beautifully arranged with soft natural light and gentle shadows, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Whole Milk: Gives the latte a creamy, smooth base—feel free to swap for any milk you prefer, but whole milk froths best.
Unsweetened Pumpkin Puree: Adds natural pumpkin flavor without extra sweetness, ensuring your latte tastes fresh.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens just enough without overpowering the spices and pumpkin.
Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm depth of flavor that rounds out the pumpkin and spices perfectly.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: The signature blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that makes this latte unmistakably fall.
Brewed Coffee: Use your favorite blend to add that rich, caffeine kick; dark roast works wonderfully here.
Vanilla Creamer: Adds silkiness and a touch of additional sweetness, finishing off the latte with a creamy touch.
Whipped Cream & Additional Pumpkin Pie Spice: For topping, they boost the latte’s decadent look and spice aroma.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe really shines when you tailor it to your taste. I like mine a touch less sweet and with extra whipped cream, but you might prefer to double up on the pumpkin or make it dairy-free—whatever suits your mood that day.

Variation: Once, I swapped vanilla creamer for almond milk and cinnamon syrup for vanilla. It gave a lovely nutty twist that I still crave!
Dietary Tweaks: Use oat or coconut milk and a sweetener like maple syrup for a vegan-friendly latte that still tastes ultra-creamy.
Seasonal Change: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a spicier version that feels festive during the holidays.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Pumpkin Milk Mixture

In a glass mixing cup, I combine the whole milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisking it really well is key here—you want the sugar to dissolve and the pumpkin to evenly distribute. If you don’t have a whisk, a small jar with a lid works beautifully for shaking it up.

Step 2: Heat It Up

Pop your pumpkin milk mixture into the microwave for about 1 minute until hot but not boiling—this warms the flavors and helps it froth up when you pour it. I usually place my glass on a microwave-safe coaster to keep it steady.

Step 3: Brew Your Coffee

Meanwhile, brew a fresh cup of coffee—the stronger, the better! I prefer a dark roast for this latte to balance out the sweet spices. Pour your coffee right into your favorite mug or glass to start layering the flavors.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Pour the heated pumpkin milk mixture into the brewed coffee, then stir in your vanilla creamer. Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. This last step always feels like the deluxe touch that makes it café-level.

Top Tip

My experimentation with this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe taught me some valuable things to help you nail it the first time and every time after:

Use Fresh Pumpkin Pie Spice: Freshly mixed or high-quality store-bought spices really boost flavor—old spice blends tend to lose their punch.
Don’t Overheat: Heating the milk mixture too long can make the pumpkin taste cooked and curdle the milk; aim for just warming through.
Whisk Well: Use a small whisk or frother to fully combine milk and pumpkin; it makes your latte creamy and well-textured.
Adjust Sweetness Late: Taste after mixing coffee and pumpkin milk before adding creamer or more sugar, so you avoid oversweetening.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Latte - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I’m pretty simple when it comes to garnishes—I love a big dollop of whipped cream topped with a dusting of pumpkin pie spice or a light sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra aroma when you take a sip. Sometimes I add a cinnamon stick for stirring; it’s pretty and adds subtle flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your latte with cozy bakery treats like pumpkin muffins, ginger snap cookies, or a buttery croissant. I found serving it alongside apple cinnamon scones really brings out the spices and makes for a perfect autumn treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For fall gatherings, I like serving Pumpkin Spice Lattes in clear glass mugs to show off all the layers, with a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of crushed candied pecans on top of the whipped cream. Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce makes it extra indulgent and festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually mix the pumpkin milk base in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days—just give it a good stir or shake before reheating so everything is evenly combined. This saves time in the morning when you're rushing for coffee.

Freezing

Freeze any leftover pumpkin milk mixture in ice cube trays. When you want a latte later, just melt a cube or two in warm milk or coffee for a quick pumpkin boost without measuring.

Reheating

Gently reheat your stored pumpkin milk in the microwave or on the stove. I recommend warming it slowly to avoid curdling or scorching, which helps maintain that delicious creamy texture you want in a latte.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe without espresso?

Absolutely! The recipe uses brewed coffee instead of espresso, which makes it easy to prepare with any coffee you have at home—simply brew a strong cup for the best flavor.

What’s the best pumpkin spice blend to use?

I recommend using a fresh, quality pumpkin pie spice from the store or making your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Fresh blends have more vibrant flavors than old jarred spices.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute whole milk and creamer with your favorite dairy-free alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use a plant-based creamer. It still tastes delicious and creamy.

How long can I store the pumpkin milk mixture?

You can keep the pumpkin milk mixture refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Always give it a good stir or shake before reheating to make sure everything is blended well.

Final Thoughts

Making this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe at home quickly became a little ritual for me each fall. It’s comforting, simple, and feels like you’re treating yourself with every sip. I hope you enjoy crafting this cozy classic as much as I do—it's such a joyful way to bring the season into your day.