Pumpkin Chai Latte

There’s something magical about the first sip of a pumpkin chai latte when the air begins to chill. I still remember one crisp October morning, bundled in my favorite knit sweater, when I first tried crafting this at home instead of driving through. The blend of spiced chai, velvety pumpkin, and that creamy swirl of sweetness felt like a hug in a mug — except this version is iced, refreshing, and deeply comforting all at once. It brought back memories of hayrides and homemade pies cooling on my grandmother’s windowsill, but with a modern twist.

When you make this pumpkin chai latte, you’re not just mixing flavors — you’re capturing autumn in every sip. Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon treat or your daily fall ritual, this homemade version beats anything store-bought, both in flavor and heart.

Let’s make memories one bite at a time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pumpkin chai latte blends the bold spice of chai with creamy pumpkin for a layered fall drink that’s both invigorating and comforting.

You’ll love how easy it is to make. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s quicker than any coffee shop run and every bit as indulgent.

The recipe is versatile and adaptable — perfect with dairy or non-dairy milk, and easy to adjust for sweetness and spice levels. Want a stronger kick? Add an extra tea bag. Prefer it mellow? Just lighten the chai steeping time.

It’s also family-friendly and fun to make together. My kids love helping with the whipped cream (and sneaking spoonfuls!).

This pumpkin chai latte also makes a stunning presentation for fall brunches, book club, or backyard bonfires. It’s an easy way to add something special to your everyday moments.

And let’s be honest — it’s just plain delicious.

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Ingredient Overview

This iced pumpkin chai latte offers a beautiful balance of creamy, spicy, and lightly sweet flavors that capture the heart of fall in every chilled sip. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this autumn dream to life:

• Chai Tea Bags: The foundation of the drink, steeped to release warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

• Pumpkin Purée: Rich and earthy, it brings that unmistakable fall flavor front and center.

• Milk (Dairy or Non-Dairy): The creamy backdrop. Oat milk makes it extra velvety.

• Sugar: Just enough to balance out the spice and highlight the pumpkin.

• Vanilla Extract: Adds a smooth, warm finish that ties everything together.

• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A seasonal essential — think cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.

• Heavy Cream + Powdered Sugar: For whipping into the dreamy topping.

• Ice Cubes: To keep the drink cool and crisp, perfect for early autumn afternoons.

Food styling tip: Serve your pumpkin chai latte in a tall glass with a clear straw to show off the layers. A dusting of pumpkin spice on the whipped cream?

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Steep the chai tea

Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat and steep 2 chai tea bags for 5 minutes. This is where the spice magic of your pumpkin chai latte begins. Let it cool to room temperature before assembling.

Step 2: Mix the pumpkin milk blend

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup milk (any kind), 1/4 cup pumpkin purée, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice. This creamy layer gives your pumpkin chai latte its signature richness.

Step 3: Make the whipped topping

In a chilled mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup heavy cream with 1 tablespoon powdered sugar. Whip until soft peaks form. This whipped topping adds a light, sweet contrast to your spicy pumpkin chai latte.

Step 4: Assemble the drink

Fill two glasses with ice. Pour in the cooled chai tea first to create a beautiful base. The contrast with the pumpkin layer makes your pumpkin chai latte extra photogenic.

Step 5: Add the pumpkin milk layer

Gently pour the pumpkin milk blend over the chai tea. Stir softly if you’d like the flavors to mingle, or leave them layered for a dramatic look. Tip: Use a spoon to slow the pour and preserve the separation.

Step 6: Top with whipped cream

Scoop the whipped cream onto each glass. This creamy cloud makes every sip of your pumpkin chai latte indulgent and dreamy.

Step 7: Sprinkle and serve

Finish with a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice for aroma and visual flair. It’s the perfect final touch for a cozy, flavorful pumpkin chai latte.

Pro Tips

For the creamiest pumpkin chai latte, use whole milk or oat milk. The extra fat makes it silkier and more satisfying.

Chill the chai tea before pouring to preserve the layers. A hot base can melt your ice and water down the rich flavors of your pumpkin chai latte.

Whip your cream in a cold metal bowl. It holds peaks better and keeps your topping from sliding off the drink on warm fall days.

Want a stronger spice kick in your pumpkin chai latte? Add an extra pinch of ground cinnamon or steep an additional tea bag. Try to avoid oversteeping, though — bitterness can creep in.

This latte stores well. Make the base ahead and refrigerate. Just shake and pour over fresh ice for a quick pumpkin chai latte treat anytime. I often batch mine during busy weeks — it holds beautifully for 2–3 days.

If you’re already sipping seasonal drinks like our pumpkin cold foam recipe, this one is your next cozy craving solved.

Variations

Make a hot version by heating both the chai tea and pumpkin milk blend, skipping the ice. The hot pumpkin chai latte is perfect for chilly mornings with a wool blanket and a good book.

For a dairy-free option, swap in coconut cream for the whipped topping. It pairs beautifully with the warm chai spices in this pumpkin chai latte.

Craving a stronger coffeehouse vibe? Add a shot of espresso to turn your pumpkin chai latte into a dirty chai — extra bold and deeply aromatic.

Prefer less sugar? Skip the whipped topping and reduce the sweetener in the base. The natural sweetness of pumpkin still shines through.

Celebrate fall flavor in more ways by pairing this with our pumpkin spice cake or any treat from our fall baking recipes collection — your kitchen will smell like heaven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Serving Suggestions

This pumpkin chai latte pairs beautifully with cozy baked goods and crisp fall mornings. Try it alongside a warm slice of pumpkin spice cake or fresh-from-the-oven caramel apple bites for a truly seasonal treat. If you’re planning a fall brunch or a casual get-together, serve it with cinnamon muffins or scones for that inviting café-style charm. For those slower weekend afternoons, pour your pumpkin chai latte into a mason jar, add a cinnamon stick, and sip while flipping through your favorite cookbook.

Conclusion

Making your own pumpkin chai latte isn’t just about flavor — it’s about creating something comforting with your own hands. It’s a small act of self-care that turns an ordinary day into something warm, cozy, and a little bit magical. From steeping the tea to that final whipped cream swirl, each step connects you to the season and to the people you might share it with. Whether it’s a solo sip on the porch or a round of lattes for friends, this drink makes memories happen

I’d love for you to give this pumpkin chai latte a try! Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments — especially if you add your own twist. Snap a photo and tag us on your favorite social platform. I’d be thrilled to see how you make it your own.

From my kitchen to yours — happy cooking!