How To Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice Lattes At Home?

I was home alone today and decided to go out for a cup of coffee.

Since I had a lot to do, I swung through the Starbucks drive-thru.


I immediately knew what I wanted - a pumpkin spice latte.

They give me such a cozy feeling!


Unfortunately, they don't give my wallet the same feeling. That's why I've done some research on how we can all start making our own at home!

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Why to Use Pumpkin
Spice In Coffee?

Pumpkin Spice is traditionally a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, three spices that offer a warm, festive taste in each sip.

Pumpkin Spice is perfect in coffee because it blends well with almost any strength.


Additionally, it is offers just the right amount of sweetness that cuts out any bitter flavors from the coffee bean.


Adding Pumpkin Spice to your coffee is also the perfect beverage to enjoy on a crisp fall morning.

Pumpkin Spice Latte History

Pumpkin Spice has a long history in the world of coffee. Its development began in 2003 and it appeared in Starbucks stores in 2004.


The recipe of the PSL went under many changes to get it to the taste and consistency it is today.


It started out being a recipe that contained chemicals and artificial flavors, and since 2015, it contains no more artificial flavors.


It is easy to see how this delicious latte spice grew to become the popular option it is now!

Why Starbucks's Pumpkin Spice Latte is so Popular?

In the past couple decades, the Starbucks franchise has grown increasingly popular. So it makes sense that when they make a drink people scientifically love, they go crazy.


That's right - science is the reason behind our love for all things pumpkin spice. It may sound crazy, but it gives a nostalgia to the fall season.


The aroma triggers the happy memories associated with the scent to flood your brain. That's why we can't get enough of it!

Why Starbucks's Pumpkin Spice Latte is Better Than Ever?

Since it was made in 2003, the recipe hadn't changed much. Back in 2015, however, the company made a rather large change to the drink.

 

That year they added real pumpkin to the list of ingredients. This really gives the drink that extra pumpkin flavor. If we weren't hooked before, we definitely are now!

When Does Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Come Out?

It seems every year the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte has a different release date.

 

Last year in 2018, it came out at the end of August, but it has also come out in September in the past.


Typically, you can expect the PSL to come out towards the end of August just in time for September.

Brands Offering Pumpkin Spice Latte

Dunkin Donuts

Dunkin Donuts is a major coffee company that has their own version of a PSL. The PSL they offer looks like a regular latte, but it offers a sweet taste of pumpkin.


Dunkin Donuts uses a syrup to flavor their coffee to taste like pumpkin. Because of the popularity of the brand, this PSL does get a lot of love from customers.

 

However, it is said to be a little too sweet in its aftertaste. That being said, Dunkin Donuts offers it for a fairly reasonable price compared to other large chain coffee shops.

McDonalds

Being already a leader in the fast food world only meant the obvious come out with their own version of the PSL.


McDonalds claims to freshly brew their coffee that the latte is made with and blend it with a satisfying aroma of cinnamon, pumpkin, and whole or non-fat milk.


It comes with a dollop of whipped cream on top, and can be purchased for a low price compared to its competitors.


The calories in a PSL at McDonalds is 270 for a small, so it teeters on the low-high range.

Gloria Jean’s Coffee Company

Gloria Jean’s Pumpkin Spice Latte is the perfect blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a medium roast coffee bean.


The result is a smooth and sweet taste that brings an explosion of fall in your mouth.


Well, you be the judge of that. However, Gloria Jean’s Coffee Company prides itself in a premium Pumpkin Spice coffee that you can mix with any milk of your choice.


Compared to other lattes from other companies, Gloria Jean’s is bolder in taste rather than overly sweet.

Peet’s Coffee and Tea

Lactose-intolerant and Vegan consumers unite! Peet’s Coffee and Tea’s Pumpkin Spice Latte is entirely dairy-free from the drink itself to the delicious toppings.


The latte is crafted with espresso, pumpkin, and the usual spices, offering a sweet but not too sweet PSL.


On top, coconut milk is whipped and dusted with pumpkin spice to create the perfect little topping on your drink!


Not every coffee company offers a dairy-free PSL, so Peet’s Coffee and Tea can pride themselves in the fact that they do offer one!


This latte is quickly becoming a popular choice, as the brand is already a favorite of many coffee drinkers.

Tim Horton’s

Tim Horton’s Pumpkin Spice Latte comes in a hot version and a cold version.


Tim Horton’s isn’t too open about what they use to create their PSL, but it has a sweet pumpkin taste dolloped with a generous size of whipped cream on top and caramel drizzle.


The price of this PSL is average, as you are able to purchase a PSL from another chain coffee business for more.


However, Tim Horton’s grew its popularity in Canada and is now an American company, so there have been changes to some of their drinks.


The PSL still remains a fall favorite to dedicated Timmies lovers.

Caribou Coffee

Step to the side Pumpkin Spice Latte because Caribou Coffee has something even more delicious: Pumpkin Pie Latte.


That’s right, you can order a pie inspired latte. You can enjoy this PPL iced, hot, or in a Cooler version.


In their PPL, espresso, steamed milk, and pumpkin syrup are all blended to create a not too sweet but just the right amount of pumpkin latte.


Caribou Coffee is a popular coffee business that can proudly say their Pumpkin Pie Latte is a real fall hit.

Panera Bread

Already a popular business, of course Panera Bread had to release their own Pumpkin Spice Latte.


They keep it simple by only mixing espresso, milk, pumpkin syrup, whipped cream, and salted caramel drizzle.


Compared to other coffee chains who make PSL, Panera Bread has done something slightly different with theirs: adding in caramel drizzle.


The caramel offers a different enjoyable taste while you are sipping on pumpkin infused coffee.


Most of Panera Bread’s items, including lattes, are affordable and considered average when up against chains like Starbucks or Peet’s.

Einstein Bros Bagels

The Pumpkin Spice Latte from Einstein Bros Bagels combines coffee, milk, and pumpkin syrup…pretty simple, right?


While it does use easy ingredients, the taste of the PSL from Einstein Bros Bagels may not be everyone’s cup-of-tea (or coffee!).


This is because their PSL is on the sweet side, perhaps artificially sweet side. That being said, it is delicious and pairs well with any one of their breakfast bagels or muffins.

 

Einstein Bros Bagel’s offers affordable prices to customers, so it may be a place you want to check out when fall arrives.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte At Home?

As good as a nice pumpkin spice latte from Starbuck can taste, it's not always friendly on the wallet. The good news is, there are ways to do it in your own kitchen.


Making your drink at home also allows you to customize it just like at Starbucks. You can get your pumpkin spice fix many different ways for cheap.

All You Need

# Ingredients:

• Pumpkin Purée 2 tablespoons

• Pumpkin Spice 1/2 teaspoon + garnish

• Ground Black Pepper

• Sugar 2 tablespoons

• Vanilla Extract 2 tablespoons

• Milk 2 cups

• Espresso 1-2 shots

• Heavy Cream 1/4 cup



# Equipment:

• Mixer/Whisk to whip cream

• Saucepan

• Wooden spoon

• Whisk

• Blender

• Espresso maker



#3 Instructions

Heat the Pumpkin and Spices: 

For 2 minutes, heat pumpkin, pumpkin spice, and black pepper in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously.


Stir in the Sugar:

This should create a syrup consistency that is thick and is bubbling.


Warm the Milk: 

Stir the vanilla in with the milk and warm without boiling.


Blend: 

Blend the milk and pumpkin mixtures in a blender until frothy.


Mix The Drinks: 

Combine the espresso and milk/pumpkin mixture.


Slimmer: 

If you want a more slim version trying using 2% milk instead of whole.


Garnish and Enjoy: 

Add your choice of pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, and cinnamon and relax!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Hacks

• Add Hazelnut Syrup: This makes it taste even more like pumpkin pie!

• Put it On Ice: Same great fall taste in a summer drink!

• Add Some Chocolate Chips: Everything's better with a little chocolate.

• Substitute Coconut Milk: Another way to try a summer edition of the famous autumn coffee.

• No Espresso: If you don’t need the caffeine, ditch it. You may be surprised how much you like the drink without it.

• Spicy Chai PSL: If you really like your chai, add two pumps of pumpkin syrup instead of doing a regular pumpkin spice latte.

• Add Salted Caramel: Want to add a little sweet that’s not too overwhelming?

Try a pump of caramel and a dash of salt.

• Keep it Simple: If you’re not into all the extra coffee additions, get a pump of pumpkin spice syrup in your regular coffee.

• Too Sweet: If the drink you get is a lot sweeter than you expected, don’t be hesitant to add a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Drinks: Recipes

#1 The Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte

This recipe allows you to make a delicious Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte right in your own kitchen. Not only does it save you money, but you can control how sweet you like it.


The frothy milk combined with a little pumpkin syrup and dusting of nutmeg, creates the perfect fall beverage.


Let’s face it, Starbucks is not that cheap, so creating a similar drink at home will save you money.


You can whip one up just before you leave for work, or make a few to enjoy with friends on your patio.

#2 The Pumpkin Spice Latte Frappuccino

This recipe requires a few more ingredients, but the result is amazing. It allows you to easily create your own pumpkin syrup using real canned pumpkin!


By doing this, you are getting a true pumpkin flavor without the artificial sweet taste. This Frappuccino is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a morning beverage because of the hefty amount of strong coffee.


It only takes seconds to blend and you have a mouth-watering, festive Frappuccino to sip on.

#3 Regular Coffee with Pumpkin Spice Sauce

Fresh ingredients unite in this delectable pumpkin drink. After you make it once, it is easy to throw together in the morning to sip on with a bagel, eggs, or while you read the newspaper.


Cinnamon sticks, cloves, pumpkin pie spice, fresh ginger, and sweetened condensed milk are game changers in this recipe and the reason why it is bursting with flavors.

 

While it takes some work to put together, the end result is a coffee you won’t be able to put down. Enjoy morning, noon, or night – or all three! It’s that good.

#4 The Pumpkin Spice Steamer

This sweet and satisfying drink will make you want to drink one every single day.

The mixture of milk, heavy cream, and aromatic spices makes the Pumpkin Spice Steamer a creamy fall treat.


It is also quite healthy, as it offers healthy fats and not a lot of added sweetener.

If you are avoiding sugar, you can always add alternatives or enjoy it without it.

#5 Skinny Pumpkin Spice Latte

This recipe is perfect for those watching their weight, as it falls under 100 calories per serving.


Additionally, it blends collagen into the mix which helps keep your skin looking amazing.


It only takes a couple minutes to blend this latte, and you can enjoy one every day without worrying about it wrecking your weight.


You can feel good about this PSL because of the nutritious ingredients it is made with.

#6 Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte

Vegans and non-Vegans will love this Pumpkin Spice Latte.


The great thing about this recipe is that it uses Medjool dates to sweeten it instead of unhealthy white sugar or artificial sweeteners.


This also means you won’t get a sugar spike after drinking this PSL. It is healthy to enjoy morning or before bed.

#7 Paleo Pumpkin Spice Latte

You only need 5 ingredients to make this delicious Paleo Pumpkin Spice Latte. This recipe requires no artificial or white sugar either, so you can enjoy it without the guilt.


In fact, you can sip on one in the early morning or afternoon without feeling a lag. Plus, it will save you tons of money on PSL because we know they are addicting!

#8 Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte

This unique latte uses a teaspoon of match powder to create a creamy, flavorful PSML (Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte).


This latte is not only quite healthy, but super easy to whip up in your own kitchen.


It only requires a few ingredients that you probably already have on hand, so why not whip one of these lattes up?

#9 Quick Pumpkin Spice Latte

Only the simplest of ingredients go into this latte, and create an amazing at-home fall drink.


The calories on this latte are average at around 184, so you can enjoy this latte as an after-dinner treat or as part of your breakfast.


Add a dollop of whipped cream on top with a dusting of your favorite spice before you sip!

#10 Browned Butter Pumpkin Spice Latte

The addition of browned butter will change the way you like your PSL forever.

Smooth, creamy, and oh-so-buttery (just the right amount) will have you whipping these up day and night.


The nutrition on this recipe is quite healthy, as there is no white sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Plus, the ingredients used in this recipe are on the inexpensive side.

#11 Bulletproof Pumpkin Spice Latte

If you’ve ever tried Bulletproof Coffee, then you will be a pro at making this Bulletproof PSL.


Coconut milk, pumpkin pie spice, butter or ghee, and some other delicious ingredients go together to make this amazing latte.


Not only is it great for your taste buds, but your waistline will appreciate it too.


This latte is best enjoyed in the morning as this ghee or butter will encourage your metabolism to rise and give your body a healthy source of fat.

#12 Maple Pumpkin Spice Latte

Maple syrup is the source of sweetener in this PSL and it creates the perfect fall drink. This recipe is incredibly versatile and you change the milk to suit your preference if need be.


This latte is quick to make, so you do not have to give up your entire morning making your own coffee. In fact, it probably takes less time than sitting in the drive-thru at Starbucks.

#13 Pumpkin Chai Latte

Black tea, tons of aromatic spices, and wholesome milk are your go-to ingredients in this delicious latte recipe.


Chai and pumpkin pair quite well together, and you are left with a creamy, satisfying latte.


This drink makes a great after-dinner or before bed drink because the spices are relaxing to drink and smell.

#14 Pumpkin Spice Latte Overnight Oatmeal

Who wouldn’t want to wake up to a bowl of Pumpkin oatmeal? This recipe is very easy to follow and will save you tons of time in the morning!


All you have to do is take it out of the fridge and enjoy! Plus, you can easily change up the ingredients if you like without altering the taste too much.


Put a dollop of whipped cream on top if you want to treat yourself. Oats are a heart healthy ingredient that you can feel good about eating.

#15 Keto Pumpkin Spice Latte

This recipe uses only the healthiest of ingredients that promote weight loss. That’s right, you can have your pumpkin and eat it too. It takes a few minutes to prepare but it is so worth it.


The taste is out-of-this-world and will save you tons of money on drinks at commercial chain stores. Feel good about your Pumpkin Spice Latte with this recipe.

#16 Homemade Caramel Pumpkin Spice Latte

This Homemade Caramel Pumpkin Spice Latte is amazing because you can alter the ingredients to tailor it to your dietary and fitness needs.


Whole milk and spices create a healthy blend that you will love, and the addition of caramel drizzle brings this drink to life.


The ingredients should all be things you have on hand, and it only takes a few minutes to blend this latte up in your own kitchen.

#17 Anti-Inflammatory Pumpkin Spice Turmeric Latte

If you have not tried turmeric yet, do so now! It is a wonderful anti-inflammatory spice that can change your life.


It also gives this drink a beautiful yellow-orange color that makes it even more festive. Enjoy this latte in the morning or at night and feel the healing properties it has to offer.

#18 Pumpkin Spice Latte Milkshake

Milkshake? Latte? Pumpkin Spice? Why not put them all together and create a delectable, creamy milkshake?


You can decrease the sugar if you wish, or add your own favorite sweetener.


Kids will also love this milkshake and you can add in other healthy ingredients they won’t be able to taste, like chia seeds or flax seeds for a boost of omega-3 vitamins!

#19 Homemade Pumpkin Spice Floats

With an ice cream surprise in the center, who wouldn’t love one of these Homemade Pumpkin Spice Floats?


We suggest this float as a dessert or afternoon treat because of the sugar content.


It would also make the perfect end to a dinner party for guests! And, you can add a shot of Baileys to make it even more tastier!

#20 Kahlúa Pumpkin Spice Latte Cocktail

Sweet and spicy unite in this drink! This Kahlua inspired cocktail is great in the evening after a delicious dinner.


This spices, Kahlua, and pumpkin flavors make it a perfect drink to enjoy by the fire on a cold fall night

#21 Blender Pumpkin Spice Latte

Grab a saucepan and you can make yourself a PSL in your own kitchen!


The addition of vanilla makes this latte the perfect amount of sweetness and you can ice it or enjoy it hot.


Plus, it is quite healthy so you can feel good about drinking it.

#22 Pumpkin Spice Rocket Fuel Lattes

This is the latte you can drink while losing weight because of the wholesome ingredients.


It only takes a few minutes to whip up and seconds to down! This is a latte you can enjoy for breakfast and not feel guilty afterwards.

#23 Pumpkin Spice Latte Smoothie

Cream cheese, pumpkin spice, maple syrup, and coffee? Yes, please.


The cream cheese transforms this latte into a creamy smoothie that makes it feel like you are drinking a pumpkin pie cheesecake.

#24 Pumpkin Spice Latte Chia Pudding

Chia seeds are an amazing superfood that keeps you full and promotes healthy weight loss with a proper diet.


This rich and flavorful pudding allows you to enjoy pumpkin spice for breakfast, lunch, or after dinner!

#25 Iced Coconut Pumpkin Spice Lattes

Agave syrup and coconut milk make this latte a healthy and satisfyingly sweet beverage.


You can enjoy it cold during the summer or hot in the fall or winter.

#26 Crock Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte

Who would’ve thought you can create a PSL in your crockpot? Well, you can and it is amazing!


It takes about one hour for it to cook, but you are treated to a warm PSL made with love.

 

This is perfect for when you have guests coming over and want to create a large batch of PSL for everyone.

#27 CBD Infused Pumpkin Spice Latte

CBD is beneficial to the body and pumpkin spice is beneficial to the soul, so why not combine both?


This latte uses a lot of natural ingredients that create a delectable latte you can enjoy all year round. It nourishes the body while allowing you to indulge in a PSL.

#28 Salted Caramel Pumpkin Latte

Salted caramel takes this pumpkin latte to a whole other level.


Creamy, sweet, salty, and festive all come to mind as you sip on this beverage.


Plus, the nutritional stats on this drink are not too shabby, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

Uses Of Pumpkin Spice Latte In Foods

Pumpkin spice is a common ingredient used in food items like loaves, cookies, muffins, puddings, and even cakes.


It is a spice that blends well with others and mixes perfectly with dairy products.


Pumpkin Spice Lattes have quickly become not only a beverage, but a food item as well because you can add the ingredients into solid foods.


For example, you can create PSL Muffins or Bagels. It is super easy!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Benefits

Health Benefits

Benefit Nutrition Per Serving

Pumpkin Spice Lattes can be enjoyed in a small version to keep tabs on the sugar content.


In fact, a small PSL is not harmful to the body and can easily range from the low 200’s to 300 calories per serving.


It is recommended to get a small size when ordering from a commercial coffee store because the sugar content could be high.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Pumpkin is a warming spice, similar to turmeric! Usually, a pumpkin spice blend will contain nutmeg which can actually mask pain.

As a result, pumpkin is a good spice to consume if you have arthritis or body pain.

Good dose of Fiber

Pumpkin is fibrous and that helps keep your digestive system moving and blood pressure regular. The addition of pumpkin to any diet can keep your body happy!

Promotes a Strong Immune System

Pumpkin is a good source of zinc which is actually proven to reduce the length of colds.

This is a great excuse to enjoy more PSL’s, especially if you are someone who catches colds easy!

Other Benefits

Encourages a healthy menstrual cycle. This is especially important if you are experiencing irregular cycles or painful periods. The pumpkin is also relaxing so it can comfort an uncomfortable time.


Anti-cancer properties. Just make sure that when you are enjoying your PSL, you cut-out the addition of white sugar, as this has been shown to fuel cancer growth.


Healthy dose of vitamin C, antioxidants and iron. These things are all important in building a strong immune system and promoting healthy blood.

Which Recipes Did You Most Enjoy?

A lot of times, people become intimidated by the process of making lattes at home.


The truth is, it is very easy, as you can see from these simple, delicious recipes above.


Which one do you think you will try? I would love to know! If you have other latte lovers in your life, be sure to share this article with them so they can become at-home baristas and save money.


Although, making lattes at home is so much more than just saving money. It is about creating wholesome, nutritious drinks that are good for your body.


If you have any amazing recipes you think belong in this article, please let me know in the comments below.

References

https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-pumpkin-spice-latte-even-better-than-starbucks-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-96277

http://www.inspiredtaste.net/8419/pumpkin-spice-latte-at-home-recipe/

https://www.popsugar.com/food/Starbucks-Pumpkin-Spice-Latte-Recipe-38272478

https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/pumpkin-spice-latte/a1ef6f8d-3c99-4b9d-86e4-25bdb1c46846

https://iowagirleats.com/2016/10/03/pumpkin-spice-latte/

https://wellnessmama.com/3223/pumpkin-spice-latte/

https://addapinch.com/pumpkin-spice-latte-recipe/

https://amyshealthybaking.com/blog/2015/10/04/clean-skinny-pumpkin-spice-latte/

https://draxe.com/recipe/pumpkin-spice-latte-recipe/

https://www.refinery29.com/2015/09/93597/starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte-hacks

https://www.bustle.com/articles/39807-10-pumpkin-spice-latte-hacks-that-will-make-your-starbucks-order-anything-but-basic

http://www.starbucksmelody.com/2015/10/01/8-pumpkin-spice/

https://www.starbucks.com/menu/drinks/espresso/pumpkin-spice-latte

http://www.dailytarheel.com/blog/town_talk/2015/09/6-alternatives-to-the-traditional-pumpkin-spice-latte-that-will-spice-up-the-season

https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/why-do-we-pumpkin-spice-so-much-science-behind-psl-ncna815071

http://www.virtuallyhomemade.com/2013/09/starbucks-pumpkin-spice-frappuccino.html

https://www.tasteandtellblog.com/pumpkin-steamer/

https://detoxinista.com/healthier-pumpkin-spice-latte/

http://epicmatcha.com/matcha-latte-pumpkin-spice-recipe/

https://www.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/recipes/2016/10/health-benefits-of-pumpkin-spice

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-food/the-health-benefits-of-pumpkin-spice/
Sarah Price
 

Creator & editor here at House Of Arabica. I'm a proud mother of one baby girl. Passionate about coffees and their variations. Love to review coffee accessories! Please feel free to put your comment below.

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