The moment the leaves begin to turn and the air picks up a bit of a crisp chill, I find myself reaching for that warm, cozy cup of pumpkin spice magic. This Starbucks-inspired pumpkin spice latte isn’t just a drink — it’s a feeling. It takes me back to autumn mornings on the porch, wrapped in a flannel blanket, watching the mist rise from the hills of Bryson City while holding a warm mug close to my chest. The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg in the kitchen always told my family, “It’s fall, y’all.”
I first made this homemade pumpkin spice latte on a whim after a long walk with my kids collecting pinecones and red maple leaves. The store-bought version felt too sweet and too thin. I wanted something richer, more comforting — and goodness, did this deliver. Made with real pumpkin, warm milk, and a touch of vanilla, it’s everything you love about fall wrapped up in a steamy hug.
Gather around the table — something delicious is waiting!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade pumpkin spice latte captures everything we adore about fall — rich, cozy flavors and a soothing warm-up on chilly mornings. It’s surprisingly easy, ready in under 15 minutes, and uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Unlike store-bought syrups, you get the real pumpkin and a bold espresso kick that feels luxurious yet accessible.
The recipe is flexible too. You can make it dairy-free or amp up the spice to your heart’s desire. Plus, you’ll save money and control the sweetness — no more guessing what’s in that drive-thru cup. Whether you’re sipping it with a cinnamon bun at breakfast or curled up with a good book, this recipe brings that beloved seasonal flavor home.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
Description
This cozy pumpkin spice latte blends real pumpkin puree, warm milk, and bold coffee into a café-style treat you can enjoy at home. It’s creamy, comforting, and captures the essence of fall in every sip.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1⁄4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup milk
- 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ounces espresso or 1/2 cup strong coffee
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions
- Simmer the Pumpkin and Spice: In a small saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until sugar dissolves.
- Add Milk and Vanilla: Add milk and vanilla extract to the pan. Stir gently and heat until warm but not boiling. Froth if desired.
- Brew Espresso: Prepare espresso or strong coffee.
- Assemble the Latte: Pour espresso into your mug. Top with the pumpkin spice milk mixture. Stir gently.
- Add Toppings: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or extra pumpkin pie spice.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with oat or almond milk. You can also double the syrup and store in the fridge for 4 days to quickly remake your favorite pumpkin spice latte.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredient Overview

This pumpkin spice latte is all about layering warm, earthy fall flavors with a creamy, frothy finish. You’ll taste the cinnamon, nutmeg, and real pumpkin with every sip. It’s the kind of drink that turns a regular morning into a seasonal celebration.
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Pumpkin Puree: Gives body and rich flavor. Be sure to use plain pumpkin, not pie filling.
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Sugar: Balances the spice with just the right sweetness. Brown sugar works great too.
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Pumpkin Pie Spice: The soul of this drink. It usually includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. You can make your own or buy it pre-mixed.
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Milk: Any kind works! Whole milk gives a creamy result, but oat or almond milk also froth well.
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Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and a touch of smoothness.
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Espresso or Strong Coffee: Bold and balanced to hold its own against the spice.
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Whipped Cream + Ground Cinnamon (optional): For that cozy café-style finish.
Food styling tip: Garnish the whipped cream with a cinnamon stick or a light dusting of nutmeg for a charming fall touch.
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Simmer the Pumpkin and Spice
In a small saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin spice. Warm over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 2–3 minutes. The sugar should dissolve and the mixture will start to bubble slightly. This is when the fragrance really blooms — a sure sign fall is in your kitchen.
Step 2: Add the Milk and Vanilla
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract. Stir gently until everything is fully blended and steaming hot, but not boiling — about 3–5 minutes. If you have a frother, now’s the time to get that dreamy, café-style foam going. The pumpkin spice aroma will deepen here, creating that comforting, creamy base we crave.
Step 3: Brew the Espresso
While the milk mixture heats, brew your espresso or strong coffee. You’ll want about 2 ounces if you’re using an espresso machine or ½ cup of very strong coffee if using drip or French press. Either one works beautifully with the pumpkin spice base.
Step 4: Assemble the Latte
Pour the brewed espresso into your favorite mug. Slowly pour the hot pumpkin spice milk mixture over the top, holding back the foam with a spoon to layer it on last. Once combined, give it a gentle stir.
Tip: Don’t skip the foam — it creates that luxurious latte texture and really carries the scent of the pumpkin spice.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Top your latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. If you’re feeling extra festive, try adding a pinch more pumpkin spice right on top for a picture-perfect finish.
Pro Tips

For the dreamiest homemade pumpkin spice latte, use whole milk or oat milk. Both create that lush, velvety foam we all love — and oat milk pairs beautifully with warm spices.
Always warm the pumpkin and sugar first. This lets the pumpkin spice oils bloom and melt together with the sugar into a syrupy base. Skipping this step often leads to a dull, flat flavor.
Use fresh espresso if you can, but strong coffee will do in a pinch. Either way, make sure it’s hot and bold so it stands up to the sweet pumpkin spice mix.
If you love cold drinks year-round, this recipe is easy to adapt! Chill the syrup, use cold milk, and pour it over ice with a shot of cold brew. Or explore something like this chilled twist from our pumpkin cold foam recipes for inspiration.
Store leftover syrup in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat and stir with milk for a quick weekday treat. You can even use the syrup in oatmeal or pancakes for a sneaky pumpkin spice kick.
Variations
Craving a dairy-free version? Use unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk. These froth well and complement the warm notes of pumpkin spice without overpowering it.
Want to make this a dessert drink? Swap regular sugar for brown sugar or maple syrup. The deeper sweetness will enhance the earthy flavors of the pumpkin spice and feel indulgent.
For a caffeine-free option, skip the espresso and use warm milk with a bit of decaf chai. The pumpkin spice flavor still shines and gives you all the fall vibes without the buzz.
Looking for a cozy breakfast pairing? Try our pumpkin muffins with cream cheese — they match the latte’s flavor and texture beautifully.
You can also add a splash of flavored syrup like vanilla or caramel to elevate the classic pumpkin spice into a coffeehouse-level treat right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pumpkin spice made of?
Pumpkin spice typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice. It’s a warm, cozy blend perfect for autumn recipes.
What can be substituted for pumpkin pie spice?
You can mix your own: combine 2 parts cinnamon, 1 part nutmeg, 1 part ginger, and a pinch of cloves or allspice for a homemade pumpkin spice alternative.
What’s the closest flavor to pumpkin spice?
Chai spice is quite similar, with overlapping notes like cinnamon and ginger. It’s a lovely backup when you run out of pumpkin spice.
Is pumpkin spice the same as mixed spice?
Not quite. Mixed spice, common in British baking, often includes coriander and mace, which gives it a slightly different flavor than American pumpkin spice.
Serving Suggestions

This cozy pumpkin spice latte pairs beautifully with buttery pastries, fall muffins, or even a simple slice of toast spread with apple butter. It’s the kind of drink that turns a regular moment into something special. Whether you’re savoring it on a lazy Saturday morning or treating yourself during a busy weekday, it’s always a comforting companion.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy it? Alongside a warm Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffin for that perfect café-style breakfast at home. The flavors dance together — cinnamon, nutmeg, and just a hint of tangy cream cheese. Pure fall heaven.
You can also serve this latte after dinner in place of dessert. Top it with extra whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or even a cinnamon stick. That little extra care turns your pumpkin spice moment into something truly memorable.
Conclusion
This easy homemade pumpkin spice latte brings everything we love about fall into one glorious mug — warmth, comfort, and real seasonal flavor. No syrups filled with mystery, just honest ingredients and cozy joy. It’s quick enough for busy mornings, yet luxurious enough to serve guests on crisp autumn weekends.
If you loved this, don’t miss our homemade pumpkin spice syrup — it’s the perfect base to keep in your fridge for pancakes, oatmeal, or, of course, more lattes.
Make this a new fall ritual, something you return to when the air turns cool and the leaves start to fall. Your kitchen deserves a little sparkle — and so do you.
Ready to bring the taste of fall to your mornings? Grab your ingredients, make a batch of this homemade pumpkin spice latte, and tag us on Pinterest with your favorite fall mug! We love seeing your cozy moments and creative spins.
And if you’re hungry for more inspiration, don’t forget to stop by my kitchen — it’s full of heartwarming recipes that bring flavor, joy, and seasonal sparkle to your everyday life.
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