Easy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Name: Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups milk (480 grams, any variety); 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (30 grams, not pumpkin pie filling); 1 tablespoon maple syrup or granulated sugar (adjust to taste); 1/2 to 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (1 to 3 grams, adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 grams); 1/2 to 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee (120 to 240 grams); 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (120 grams); 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (1 gram); 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup (7 to 14 grams)

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe is everything you love about a cozy fall coffee drink, made even better with real pumpkin purée, warm pumpkin pie spice, pure maple syrup, and rich espresso. If you enjoy the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, you’ll love this homemade version that delivers that rich pumpkin flavor using simple pantry ingredients.

Everything simmers together in one small saucepan in about 10 minutes, creating a creamy, perfectly spiced latte that’s just right for crisp autumn mornings, cozy afternoons, or slow weekends at home. Froth the milk for a café-style finish, or simply whisk and pour for an equally delicious homemade treat.

If you love making cozy drinks from scratch, pair this latte with Homemade Spiced Chai Latte Mix Recipe and Honey Lavender London Fog Latte Recipe for a delicious homemade drink rotation. For the best flavor, start with Easy Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice and Creamy Homemade Pumpkin Purée to make every cup completely from scratch.

Two homemade pumpkin spice lattes topped with whipped cream, served in glass mugs with cozy fall décor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Real pumpkin in every cup – Pumpkin purée simmered with warm pumpkin pie spice and maple syrup creates a rich, cozy flavor that tastes far more authentic than recipes made with flavored syrups alone.
Quick and easy to make – Everything comes together in one small saucepan in about 10 minutes, making it easy to enjoy a homemade pumpkin spice latte that’s better than the coffee shop without leaving home.
Enjoy it hot or iced – Use the same homemade pumpkin base for a steaming fall latte or a refreshing iced version when the weather is still warm.
Easy to customize – Make it dairy-free, use brewed coffee instead of espresso, adjust the sweetness to your taste, or skip the caffeine for a cozy pumpkin steamer.

Two homemade pumpkin spice lattes topped with whipped cream on a vintage tray with pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and cozy fall décor.

Ingredients

For The Latte

Milk – the creamy base of the latte. Whole milk froths most consistently, but oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk all work well and each adds a slightly different natural sweetness.
Pumpkin puree – the flavor anchor of this latte. Use Creamy Homemade Pumpkin Purée or 100 percent pure canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which already contains added sugar and spices that throw off the flavor of this homemade pumpkin spice latte.
Pumpkin pie spice – the warm spice blend that gives this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe its signature flavor. Use Easy Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice for the freshest flavor. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Maple syrup or granulated sugar – sweetens the latte and adds warmth that pairs naturally with pumpkin and spice. Maple syrup adds a slightly smoky, caramel-adjacent note that sugar does not.
Vanilla extract – adds warm floral depth that complements the pumpkin and spices beautifully. Use 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
Espresso or strong brewed coffee – the bold base that anchors the pumpkin and spice. A double shot of espresso gives the most concentrated coffee flavor, though strong brewed coffee works in equal measure. A caffeine-free alternative is a natural swap for an evening cup.

For the Pumpkin Whipped Cream

Heavy whipping cream – the base of the topping, whipped until thick and spoonable. Full-fat cream gives the most stable, richly textured result.
Pumpkin pie spice – stirred into the cream before whipping so the warm spice carries through every spoonful of the finished topping rather than sitting on the surface.
Maple syrup – sweetens the whipped cream with the same warm, caramel-adjacent note that runs through the latte base, tying the topping and the drink together in every sip.

Creamy homemade pumpkin spice latte topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice on a cozy fall table.

Variations & Add-Ins

Iced pumpkin spice latte – Simmer the pumpkin base as directed, let it cool to room temperature, then pour it over ice with cold milk and espresso or strong brewed coffee. Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice before serving.
No coffee version – replace the espresso with strong-brewed black tea, a caffeine-free coffee alternative, or extra warm milk for a pumpkin spice steamer that works at any time of day.
Dairy-free version – use oat milk or coconut milk in place of dairy milk and replace the whipped cream topping with full-fat coconut cream whipped until thick.
Extra spiced version – add a small pinch of ground black pepper and ground cardamom alongside the pumpkin pie spice for a more layered spice profile that carries deeper into every sip.

Recipe Tips

Warm the pumpkin with the spices first – Adding the pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice to the milk before it simmers gives the spices time to bloom. This creates the rich, cozy flavor that makes a homemade pumpkin spice latte taste even better.

Use pure pumpkin purée only – Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and pre-blended spices that throw off the sweetness and spice balance of this recipe. For the best flavor, use Creamy Homemade Pumpkin Purée or 100 percent pure canned pumpkin.

Strain for the smoothest cup – pour the finished pumpkin mixture through a fine mesh strainer before adding the coffee for a completely smooth, clean latte. This step removes any fibrous bits from the puree.

Froth before adding the coffee – froth or blend the warm pumpkin milk before the espresso goes in so the coffee flavor stays bright. Add the espresso after frothing and stir gently.

Pre-warm the mugs – swirl a small amount of hot water in each mug before pouring the latte in. The pre-warmed mug keeps the drink hot from the first sip to the last.

Adjust sweetness gradually – start with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or sugar and taste before adding more. The pumpkin puree contributes its own faint natural sweetness.

Milk, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice warming together in a saucepan for a homemade pumpkin spice latte.

Instructions

Warm the milk and pumpkin – in a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup or sugar. Heat, stirring occasionally, until hot and steaming but not boiling, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Simmer and infuse – reduce to low heat and stir gently for 1 to 2 minutes so the spices fully infuse into the warm milk and the pumpkin is completely smooth.
Strain, optional – pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a heat-safe pitcher or bowl for the smoothest texture.
Froth the mixture – pour into a blender and blend for 30 to 60 seconds until frothy, or use a handheld frother for 20 to 30 seconds. Skip this step if you prefer a smooth latte.
Add the coffee – Stir in the espresso or strong brewed coffee until fully combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee works just as well.
Make the whipped topping, optional – whip the heavy cream, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup until thick and spoonable, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Serve – divide evenly between two pre-warmed mugs. Spoon the whipped cream over each if using and finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.

Pumpkin spice latte recipe made with real pumpkin purée, topped with whipped cream and served in a glass mug with cozy fall décor.

Gifting Ideas

Gift a latte kit – Pack a small jar of Easy Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice alongside a small jar of Creamy Homemade Pumpkin Purée and a printed recipe card for a cozy cottage kitchen gift that’s perfect for fall.
Include a serving note – let the recipient know the pumpkin base keeps refrigerated for up to 3 days, reheats in about 5 minutes, and works equally well poured over ice. A card with both methods makes the gift feel complete.
Pair with a cozy mug – a clear glass mug or cottage-style ceramic mug tucked alongside the latte kit makes the presentation feel intentional without requiring elaborate wrapping.
Build a cottage drink basket – Pair the pumpkin spice latte kit with a jar of Homemade Spiced Chai Latte Mix Recipe for a thoughtful homemade gift that’s perfect for anyone who loves cozy fall drinks.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator – store the pumpkin milk base without the coffee in an airtight jar for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, froth if desired, and add freshly brewed coffee before serving.
Make-ahead base – the pumpkin milk mixture without the coffee can be made up to 3 days ahead. Reheat, froth, add coffee, serve.
Whipped cream – store leftover pumpkin spiced whipped cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Re-whip briefly before serving.
Do not freeze the assembled latte – The milk and pumpkin purée separate when frozen, and the texture does not fully recover after thawing. Instead, freeze leftover pumpkin purée in small portions for future homemade pumpkin spice lattes or other fall recipes.

FAQ

A homemade pumpkin spice latte is made with milk, real pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup or sugar, vanilla extract, and espresso or strong brewed coffee. Simmering the pumpkin and spices together creates a rich, cozy flavor that’s even better than coffee shop versions. For the freshest flavor, use Easy Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice in this recipe.

It can, but not every recipe does. Many coffee shop versions rely heavily on flavored syrups, while this homemade pumpkin spice latte uses real pumpkin purée for a richer flavor and a naturally creamy texture. Be sure to use 100 percent pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.

Absolutely! Strong brewed coffee is an excellent substitute for espresso and makes a delicious homemade pumpkin spice latte. Brew your coffee a little stronger than usual so the rich coffee flavor balances the pumpkin and warm spices.

Prepare the pumpkin milk base as directed, then let it cool completely. Fill a glass with ice, pour in the cooled pumpkin mixture, add espresso or strong brewed coffee, and stir well. Top with cold milk if desired and finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for an easy iced pumpkin spice latte.

Yes! Oat milk creates one of the creamiest dairy-free pumpkin spice lattes, but almond milk and coconut milk also work well. For the topping, replace the whipped cream with whipped full-fat coconut cream for a completely dairy-free fall drink.

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Pumpkin spice latte in a clear mug topped with whipped cream, styled with mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and star anise on a cozy cloth

5 from 3 votes

Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Author: Emily Rider

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe is made with real pumpkin purée, homemade pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and espresso for a rich, cozy fall drink that's even better than the coffee shop. Enjoy it hot or iced, and have it ready in just 10 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep:5

Cook:5

Additional Time / Resting Time:1

Total:10

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Servings: 2 cups

Equipment

1 Small saucepan
1 Whisk
1 Blender or milk frother

Ingredients

For the Latte Base:

▢ 2 cups milk 480 grams, any variety
▢ 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree 30 grams, not pumpkin pie filling
▢ 1 tablespoon maple syrup or granulated sugar adjust to taste
▢ ½ to 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice 1 to 3 grams, adjust to taste
▢ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 5 grams
▢ ½ to 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee 120 to 240 grams

For the Pumpkin Spiced Whipped Cream

▢ ½ cup heavy whipping cream 120 grams
▢ ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 gram
▢ 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup 7 to 14 grams

Instructions

Warm the milk and pumpkin – in a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup or sugar until hot and steaming but not boiling, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Simmer and infuse – reduce to low heat and stir gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the spices are fully infused and the pumpkin is smooth throughout.
Strain, optional – pour through a fine mesh strainer into a heat-safe pitcher for the smoothest texture.
Froth the mixture – blend for 30 to 60 seconds or use a handheld frother for 20 to 30 seconds. Skip if you prefer a smooth latte.
Add the coffee – Stir in the espresso or strong brewed coffee until fully combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. If you don't have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee works just as well.
Make the whipped topping, optional – whip the heavy cream, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup until thick and spoonable, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Serve – divide evenly between two pre-warmed mugs, spoon whipped cream over each if using, and finish with pumpkin pie spice and a cinnamon stick.

Video

Notes

Pumpkin puree – use 100 percent pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that throw off the balance of the recipe.

Coffee options – A double shot of espresso creates the richest flavor, but strong brewed coffee works just as well if you don’t have an espresso machine. For an evening drink, use decaf coffee or a caffeine-free coffee alternative. Strong brewed black tea also makes a delicious substitute.

Dairy-free version – swap the milk for oat or coconut milk and replace the whipped cream with full-fat coconut cream whipped until thick.

Make-ahead – the pumpkin milk base without the coffee keeps refrigerated in an airtight jar for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, froth if desired, and add freshly brewed coffee before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 2400g, Calories: 403kcal, Carbohydrates: 25g, Protein: 10g, Fat: 30g, Saturated Fat: 18g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 7g, Cholesterol: 97mg, Sodium: 113mg, Potassium: 529mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 22g, Vitamin A: 3610IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 373mg, Iron: 1mg

Close-up of a woman in a peach blouse smiling and leaning against a kitchen counter, with fresh flour and wheat berries visible beside her.

Emily Rider

Home miller since 1999 with fresh-milled flour & sourdough experience. Sharing from-scratch recipes and traditional kitchen skills, rooted in the seasons and inspired by everyday cottage living and seasonal rhythms.

About Me

Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe