How to Make a Healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home
Updated: May 18, 2023
Nothing says fall like a pumpkin spice latte. Learn how to make your own healthier version with our simple step-by-step pumpkin spice latte recipe.
When fall is just around the corner, we know what that means: pumpkin spice lattes are back on the menu! But don’t let the coffee shop’s fancy equipment fool you—making your own pumpkin spice latte at home is easier than appreciating fall’s foliage, and cheap to boot. Starbuck’s version of the pumpkin spice latte is full of sugar and is 390 calories. With this healthy version, you’ll get the same great taste as Starbucks, without the unnecessary sugar.
How to Make a Healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin pie puree
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, plus a dash for garnish
- Whipped cream for serving
Directions
Step 1: Make a cup of joe
A pumpkin spice latte’s palate-pleasing flavor takes center stage, but the drink’s unsung hero is coffee. Brew up a light roast for an extra kick of caffeine, or opt for a dark roast for a rich, smooth character.
Step 2: Prep the flavoring
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, milk, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Heat everything until it’s hot and starts to steam. Make sure you don’t let it reach a boil or the milk might curdle.
Test Kitchen Tip: Use your leftover pumpkin puree to make a tasty pumpkin breakfast.
Step 3 (optional): Blend the hot mixture
To mimic the foaminess of a Starbucks pumpkin spice latte, pour the heated mixture into a blender and blend for about 15 seconds until frothy.
Step 4: Mix it all together
Pour the brewed coffee into a large mug and gently top it off with the hot pumpkin and milk mix.
Step 5: Top it off
Add a hearty peak of whipped cream to the top of the drink, and sprinkle with a dash or two of pumpkin pie spice.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Fall’s quintessential drink is now in your hands (with plenty extra to share with friends). For the full autumn experience, drink it with a decadent fall cake, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a tasty maple dessert. If you love pumpkin spice, you have got to try these pumpkin spice products.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Tips and Substitutions
- Maple syrup: If you don’t have real maple syrup, you can use 1–3 tablespoons of sugar or sugar substitute, or use no sweeteners at all.
- Pumpkin pie spice: Make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice with just four common spices.
- Milk: Whole or 2% milk will make the creamiest texture, but lower-fat milk or non-dairy alternatives will do the trick as well.
- Espresso: Substitute coffee for espresso to make the latte even smoother and put a little more pep in your step.
- Extra spice: Along with the pumpkin pie spice, add a dash of cinnamon to the whipped cream or stir into your pumpkin spice blend.
Pair this PSL with more Starbucks-inspired favorites.
Inspired by: Starbucks Egg BitesYou can substitute Gruyere cheese for the Swiss and ham for the bacon, or add in small-cut veggies to these copycat Starbucks egg bites. I also like to bake these in small Mason jars for fun single-portion presentations. Serve with avocado slices and fresh fruit for a healthy breakfast. —Maria Morelli, West Kelowna, British Columbia
Inspired by: Starbucks Cold Brew CoffeeCold brewing reduces the acidity of coffee, which enhances its natural sweetness and complex flavors. Even those who take hot coffee with sugar and cream might find themselves sipping cold brew plain. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Or if you rather buy it at the store, our Test Kitchen team found the very best options to kick start your mornings.
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Inspired by: Starbucks Pumpkin Spice LatteEach sip of this spiced-just-right beverage from our very own baristas tastes like a piece of pumpkin pie! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Inspired by: Starbucks Caffe MochaWhen I'm sipping this delicious coffee, I almost feel as if I'm visiting my favorite coffeehouse. —Jill Rodriguez, Gonzales, Louisiana
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Originally Published: September 14, 2018
