Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

Once the leaves start to change colors and the air becomes crisp, you know fall has arrived. And with it, pumpkin spice latte season! The beloved Starbucks pumpkin spice latte recipe has become a cultural phenomenon, evoking cozy memories of sweater weather and festive gatherings. But why wait in line when you can whip up copycat Starbucks recipes right at home?

With a rich blend of espresso, steamed milk and the perfect hint of pumpkin and spice, this copycat latte recipe brings all the warmth and flavor of the cafe classic straight to your kitchen. So grab your favorite mug and learn how to whip one up whenever you want.

Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Ingredients

• Pumpkin sauce: This latte recipe starts with making a pumpkin sauce. The best canned pumpkin gives the latte its creamy consistency, while brown sugar adds depth and sweetness. Finally, a dash of pumpkin pie spice contributes a rich flavor. You can go the store-bought route to keep things easy, but feel free to make your own pumpkin pie spice to give it a homemade flair.
• Coffee: This caffeinated latte is made with freshly brewed espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine at home, you could use strongly brewed coffee in its place.
• Milk: We used warm whole milk, but feel free to use your preferred milk or a dairy-free milk alternative.
• Whipped cream and nutmeg: These optional garnishes are highly suggested for an authentic experience. We love grating fresh nutmeg over this drink, but ground nutmeg works just as well.

Directions

Step 1: Make the pumpkin sauce

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To make pumpkin sauce, place the canned pumpkin, brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice in a large saucepan over low heat. Cook the sauce until the sugar is dissolved, six to eight minutes. Let it cool slightly. Place the mixture in a high-speed blender and puree until smooth.

Step 2: Make the pumpkin spice latte

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Place 1/4 cup of the pumpkin sauce into a mug and refrigerate the remaining sauce for another use. Pour the espresso over top and stir to combine.

Step 3: Froth the milk

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Using a milk frother, froth the milk until it’s light and fluffy. Pour it over the espresso mixture and top with whipped cream and nutmeg, if desired.

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Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Variations

• Make it iced: If cold drinks are more your thing, make a copycat Starbucks iced latte. Substitute cooled brewed coffee or cold brew coffee for the hot espresso.
• Add pumpkin cream cold foam: Take the PSL one step further with pumpkin cream cold foam instead of regular frothed milk.
• Make a plant-based version: For a vegan version of this Starbucks pumpkin spice latte recipe, use nut milk instead of regular milk and nondairy whipped topping instead of whipped cream.

How to Store Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

This warm latte is best enjoyed fresh, but the homemade pumpkin sauce can be stored in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container for up to four days.

Can you make copycat Starbucks pumpkin spice latte ahead of time?

We don’t recommend making the latte in advance, but you can prepare the components ahead of time. Make homemade pumpkin pie spice and keep it in a sealed jar in the cabinet for up to one year. You can also make the pumpkin sauce ahead and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to whip up a latte.

Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Tips

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Does Starbucks put pumpkin in their pumpkin spice latte?

Starbucks does make their pumpkin spice latte with pumpkin. According to Starbucks, the original pumpkin spice latte was launched in 2003. The drink has contained real pumpkin puree from kabocha pumpkins since 2015.

What else is in the Starbucks pumpkin spice latte?

Starbucks pumpkin spice latte is made with brewed espresso, milk, pumpkin sauce, pumpkin pie spice and whipped cream.

What goes with this Starbucks pumpkin spice latte recipe?

All things pumpkin are delicious with this gourd-eous drink! Try our recipes for pumpkin cupcakes, pumpkin spice cake, pumpkin oatmeal and pumpkin overnight oats.