Description
A cozy, homemade pumpkin spice latte made with real pumpkin puree, warming spices, and a custom vanilla syrup. This recipe is cheaper, healthier, and tastier than coffee shop versions, allowing you to control the sweetness and spice level.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 2 shots espresso or strong coffee (60ml)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk, oat milk, or other preferred milk)
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, extra pumpkin pie spice, vanilla syrup drizzle
Instructions
- Make the vanilla syrup: Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Simmer gently, then remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract/paste and salt. Cool completely.
- Whisk the pumpkin spice base: In a mug, combine pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup. Add a splash of hot coffee (about 2 tablespoons) and whisk vigorously until a smooth paste forms.
- Heat and froth the milk: Heat milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling. Froth using a handheld frother, steam wand, or by shaking heated milk in a sealed jar.
- Assemble the latte: Pour remaining hot coffee over the pumpkin spice base in the mug. Slowly pour frothed milk over the top, holding back foam with a spoon, then spoon foam on top. Drizzle with extra vanilla syrup.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. Serve immediately.
Notes
The vanilla syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 weeks. For a smoother texture, ensure the pumpkin puree is fully whisked into the coffee base. Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. For a dairy-free version, use oat milk or coconut milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 50
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
Keywords: pumpkin spice latte, homemade vanilla syrup, fall recipes, coffee shop copycat, pumpkin spice, autumn drinks, dairy-free options