Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte
I’ve included some videos I found relevant and helpful. 😍
Fall is here, and that means it’s time for pumpkin spice everything! You can make your own Starbucks-style Pumpkin Spice Latte at home with this easy recipe. This homemade version tastes just like the coffee shop favorite, but costs much less.
You’ll start by making a spiced pumpkin syrup with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Then you’ll mix it with espresso and steamed milk for a cozy fall drink. Top it off with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for the full coffee shop experience. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy this tasty treat whenever you want!
Exact Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make a copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte at home. The recipe is split into two parts – the syrup and the latte itself.
Pumpkin Spice Syrup
To make the syrup, you’ll need:
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 3 cinnamon sticks or 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 inch fresh ginger or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons canned pumpkin
Mix these ingredients to create a flavorful base for your latte. The spices give it that classic fall taste, while the pumpkin adds richness and color.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
For the latte itself, gather these items:
- 2 to 3 tablespoons pumpkin spice syrup
- 4 ounces prepared espresso
- 4 ounces milk, warmed and frothed
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream
- A dash of ground nutmeg
These simple ingredients come together to make a tasty drink. You can adjust the amount of syrup to suit your taste. The whipped cream and nutmeg on top give it that special Starbucks touch.
Instructions
Making a copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte is easy and fun. You’ll start by making a flavorful syrup, then use it to create the perfect latte. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Pumpkin Spice Syrup Preparation
Pour water into a medium saucepan. Add nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Strain the spicy water through a coffee filter. Throw away the used spices. Put the water back in the pan.
Add sugar and canned pumpkin to the spiced water. Mix well. Simmer for 10 more minutes, stirring often. Your syrup is ready!
Let the syrup cool down. Pour it into a clean jar or bottle. Keep it in the fridge for later use.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Preparation
Start by putting 2-3 tablespoons of your homemade pumpkin spice syrup in a coffee cup. This amount gives you a nice, sweet pumpkin flavor.
Make some espresso and pour it over the syrup. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee works too.
Warm up some milk and froth it. You can use a milk frother or shake it in a jar. Gently pour the milk over your coffee.
Stir the drink lightly to mix everything together. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra yumminess.
Finish off your latte with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg. It adds a nice touch and boosts the spicy flavor.
Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations
You can tweak this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
Milk alternatives:
- Almond milk
- Oat milk
- Coconut milk
- Soy milk
These non-dairy options work well for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Sweetener options:
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Stevia
- Coconut sugar
Try these instead of regular sugar for different flavors or to reduce calories.
Spice mix variations:
- Add a pinch of cardamom
- Use pumpkin pie spice blend
- Include a dash of allspice
These tweaks can give your latte a unique twist.
Coffee substitutes:
- Decaf espresso
- Strong brewed coffee
- Instant espresso powder
These work if you don’t have an espresso machine or want to cut back on caffeine.
You can also make an iced version by pouring the mixture over ice. For a festive touch, top your latte with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Make your pumpkin spice syrup in big batches. You can keep it in the fridge for up to two weeks in a sealed container. This saves time when you want a quick latte fix.
Try different milk types to change up the flavor. Almond milk gives a nutty taste, while oat milk makes it extra creamy.
For a stronger coffee kick, use a double shot of espresso. If you like it sweeter, add an extra spoonful of syrup.
No espresso machine? No problem! Use strong brewed coffee instead. It still tastes great.
Want to serve it cold? Mix the syrup and espresso, then pour over ice. Top with cold frothed milk for a refreshing iced latte.
Get creative with toppings. Try a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or even some pumpkin pie spice on top of the whipped cream.
To make frothed milk at home, use a small whisk or a milk frother. You can even shake cold milk in a jar for a quick foam.
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.