Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
As soon as the leaves start to change, there’s one drink that’s sure to make its way back into our lives: the Pumpkin Spice Latte! This warm, spiced coffee has become a true fall staple, loved for its cozy blend of pumpkin, spices, and creamy coffee goodness. The best part? You don’t need a fancy coffee shop to enjoy this autumn classic – you can make a delicious pumpkin spice latte right at home with simple ingredients!
A Quick History of the Pumpkin Spice Latte
The Pumpkin Spice Latte (often called PSL) was first introduced by Starbucks in 2003, and it quickly became a fall phenomenon. Its popularity sparked a whole range of pumpkin spice products, from candles to cookies. The drink’s appeal lies in its comforting blend of warm spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves – which capture the essence of fall with every sip.
Simple Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Skip the line at the coffee shop and make your own PSL from scratch! Here’s how:
Ingredients:
1 cup milk (use dairy or any milk alternative like almond, oat, or soy)
2 tbsp pumpkin butter (store bought or homemade)
1-2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or use a pinch each of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or 1-2 shots of espresso
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon, for garnish
Instructions:
Heat the Milk and Pumpkin: In a small saucepan, combine the milk, pumpkin butter, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot but not boiling.
Mix In Vanilla and Coffee: Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract. Use a whisk or frother to blend until the milk is nice and frothy. Pour in the brewed coffee or espresso and stir gently.
Serve and Top: Pour the pumpkin spice latte into your favorite mug. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for that cozy touch.
Sip and Enjoy: Your homemade PSL is ready to be enjoyed! It’s perfect for a crisp fall morning or an afternoon treat.
Tips for the Perfect PSL
Adjust Sweetness and Spice: Feel free to add more or less sugar and spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a bolder flavor, add a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg.
Use Freshly Brewed Coffee: The fresher the coffee, the better the flavor. Brew a strong cup or use espresso for that rich coffee kick.
Pumpkin Puree Tip: If you’re opening a can of pumpkin just for this drink, save the leftovers for another latte or use it to make pumpkin muffins, pancakes, or even oatmeal.
Fun PSL Facts
Did you know the original Pumpkin Spice Latte didn’t actually contain any pumpkin? Real pumpkin puree was added in 2015 to make the drink even more authentic.
Since its creation, more than 500 million PSLs have been sold! This drink is a true fall icon.
Nothing says fall like a warm, cozy pumpkin spice latte made with love right at home. So next time you’re craving that autumn flavor, try this simple recipe – it’s everything we love about fall in a cup!
