Craving that iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte but not the price tag or the trip out? You’ve landed in the perfect spot! This carefully crafted recipe is designed to bring the warm, cozy, and utterly delicious flavors of your favorite fall beverage right into your kitchen. In fact, many believe this homemade version surpasses the original, offering a rich, authentic pumpkin spice experience without any artificial notes. Beyond just the recipe, I’ll also share a brilliant tip for storing your homemade pumpkin spice syrup, ensuring every latte is as fresh and flavorful as the first.
Why You’ll Love This Starbucks Copycat PSL
There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for this homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte. Not only will you discover the joy of crafting a barista-quality drink, but you’ll also reap a multitude of benefits that make it superior to its coffee shop counterpart:
- **Significant Savings:** A daily Starbucks run can quickly add up, easily costing you $5 or more per drink. Making your PSL at home drastically cuts down on expenses, allowing you to enjoy this luxurious treat without breaking the bank. Imagine saving hundreds of dollars over the course of a year, all while still indulging in your favorite seasonal beverage!
- **Uncompromised Flavor:** Our recipe focuses on creating a concentrated pumpkin spice syrup, which infuses your latte with a deeper, more consistent flavor compared to simply sprinkling dry spices into your coffee. Say goodbye to gritty spice residue at the bottom of your cup and hello to a perfectly smooth, aromatic sip every time.
- **Healthier Choices, Your Way:** When you make your own latte, you’re in complete control of the ingredients. Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking, choose your preferred milk (dairy or non-dairy), and ensure you’re using real pumpkin puree without any hidden additives or artificial flavorings often found in commercial versions. This means a healthier, more wholesome drink tailored precisely to your dietary needs and preferences.
- **Year-Round Enjoyment:** Why limit pumpkin spice to just the fall? This recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices throughout the year. Keep a batch of syrup ready in your fridge, and you can whip up a PSL whenever the craving strikes, regardless of the season. It’s perfect not just with lattes, but also in our popular homemade pumpkin bread and bakery-style pumpkin muffins!
- **The Ultimate Comfort:** Picture this: a crisp morning, your coziest pajamas, fuzzy slippers, and a steaming mug of your homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte. No need to brave the elements or the drive-thru line. This recipe delivers pure, unadulterated comfort and deliciousness right in the comfort of your home. Dare I say it? I firmly believe this homemade version is even better than Starbucks!
Don’t Sweat The Recipe is supported by its readers. We may earn a commission if you purchase through a link on our site. Learn more.
Ingredients for the Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Syrup
The heart of any truly great Pumpkin Spice Latte lies in its syrup. Our recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced pumpkin spice essence. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pure Pumpkin Puree: This is non-negotiable! Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that would alter the final flavor of our syrup. Real pumpkin gives an authentic, earthy pumpkin taste.
- Sugar: Granulated white sugar works wonderfully for a classic simple syrup base. For a slightly deeper, more caramel-like note, you can opt for raw turbinado sugar. This provides the necessary sweetness and helps achieve the perfect syrupy consistency.
- Water: The essential liquid that transforms sugar and pumpkin into a pourable syrup.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors beautifully, adding warmth and depth to the spice blend.
- Ground Spices: This is where the magic happens! We’ll be using a classic blend of cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, ground ginger, and ground allspice. These spices are the signature elements of pumpkin pie spice, creating that unmistakable aroma and flavor profile that everyone loves. Using individual spices allows for greater control over the intensity and freshness of your blend.
How to Make The Perfect Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup
Crafting your own pumpkin spice syrup is surprisingly straightforward and incredibly rewarding. The process is simple, yet the results are a game-changer for your homemade lattes. Follow these easy steps to create a rich, flavorful syrup:
- **Combine All Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, combine the pure pumpkin puree, sugar, water, vanilla extract, and all the ground spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice). Whisk everything together until well combined and the pumpkin puree is fully incorporated.
- **Bring to a Boil:** Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the pumpkin doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
- **Simmer and Thicken:** Once boiling, reduce the heat to low-medium and let the syrup simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Continue stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture thickens slightly and begins to coat the back of a spoon. The goal is a syrupy, not watery, consistency. Don’t overcook it, as it will thicken further as it cools.
- **Remove from Heat and Strain:** Once your syrup has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour the hot syrup through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a heat-proof container. This step is crucial for removing any lingering spice particles or pumpkin fibers, ensuring a perfectly smooth syrup that won’t leave any sediment in your latte.
- **Cool and Store:** Allow the strained syrup to cool completely to room temperature before covering and refrigerating. As it chills, it will thicken even more, reaching that ideal pourable consistency for your drinks.
It’s truly that easy to create a homemade pumpkin spice syrup that will elevate all your coffee creations!
How To Store Your Homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup: An Ingenious Tip!
Now for the brilliant storage tip that will make pouring your delicious homemade syrup a breeze! I learned this clever hack from Pinterest (specifically, via morewithlesstoday) and it has been a game-changer. Instead of struggling with sticky, messy pours from a mason jar, you can create a convenient pour spout using an everyday item.
Here’s how to do it:
- **Find a Suitable Spout:** Look for a juice carton, milk carton, or any other liquid container that has a convenient plastic pour spout. The spout needs to be the kind that you can easily cut out.
- **Prepare the Carton:** Open the carton and thoroughly clean it. Then, carefully cut out the plastic pour spout section. Make sure to leave enough surrounding plastic so you have a good border to work with.
- **Trace and Trim:** Take a standard mason jar lid (the flat, disc part) and place it over the cut-out spout. Trace the outline of the lid onto the plastic. Carefully trim the plastic to match the traced circle. You want it to fit snugly within the metal ring of your mason jar lid.
- **Assemble Your Custom Lid:** Once you’ve trimmed the plastic spout insert, simply pop it into the metal screw band of your mason jar. Screw the band onto your mason jar filled with the cooled pumpkin spice syrup.
Ta-Da! You now have a perfectly functional, mess-free pour spout for your syrup. This innovative hack works great for any liquid you store in a mason jar, from homemade vinaigrettes to other flavored syrups. It not only keeps your counter clean but also makes dispensing your syrup incredibly efficient.
Now, with your perfectly stored, delicious pumpkin spice syrup ready to go, let’s get back to making that incredible latte! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying a luxurious coffee shop experience without ever leaving your home or waiting in a dreaded drive-thru line. Save your money, savor the flavor!
How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home: Step-by-Step
With your homemade pumpkin spice syrup prepared, assembling your latte is the quickest and most satisfying part. Here’s how to create that perfect blend of coffee, spice, and creamy milk:
- **Prepare Your Coffee Base:**
- **Espresso:** For the most authentic and robust flavor, pull 2 shots of fresh espresso. If you prefer a stronger drink, like I often do, you can even go for 3 shots or more, depending on your cup size and desired caffeine kick. I personally rely on my trusty Saeco Odea Giro espresso machine, which has been consistently making perfect shots since 2007. While this specific model is no longer available, I highly recommend any Saeco machine for its reliability and quality.
- **Strong Brewed Coffee:** No espresso machine? No problem! You can still enjoy a fantastic homemade PSL by using about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of very strong brewed coffee. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still be delicious.
- **Add Pumpkin Spice Syrup:** Pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of your homemade pumpkin spice syrup into your mug with the espresso or strong coffee. Adjust the amount to your personal taste – some prefer a sweeter, more pumpkin-forward latte, while others like a subtle hint of spice.
- **Steam or Froth Your Milk:**
- **Steamed Milk:** If you have an espresso machine with a steam wand, steam your milk until it’s hot and velvety with a nice layer of microfoam. Aim for a temperature of around 150-160°F (65-70°C).
- **Milk Frother:** For an easier, less hands-on approach, use a dedicated milk frother. These devices heat and froth milk automatically, delivering perfect results with minimal effort. I find myself reaching for mine often when I want to avoid standing at the counter holding a frothing pitcher.
- **Manual Frothing (No Special Equipment):** You can also vigorously whisk hot milk, or shake hot milk in a sealed jar until frothy.
- **Combine and Enjoy:** Gently pour the steamed or frothed milk over the espresso and syrup mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the delicious elements. For an extra special touch, top your latte with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
And there you have it! A perfect, cozy, and incredibly flavorful pumpkin spice latte, made right at home. You can now stay nestled in your flannel PJs and fuzzy slippers, enjoying a superior coffee drink without spending $5 or more at a coffee shop. You’ve successfully mastered the art of making a copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte with an authentic, rich pumpkin flavor that will rival any store-bought version!
Variations to Customize Your Pumpkin Spice Latte
One of the best parts about making your own Pumpkin Spice Latte is the freedom to customize it exactly to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these delicious variations:
- **Milk Choices:** The beauty of homemade is choosing your favorite! Experiment with skim milk for a lighter option, 2% milk for classic creaminess, or a variety of non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk (which froths beautifully!), coconut milk for a tropical twist, or soy milk. Each will impart a unique flavor and texture.
- **Sweetener Alternatives:** While granulated sugar is our standard, you can definitely play with other sweeteners. Try using 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup granulated sugar in the syrup recipe. The brown sugar adds a lovely hint of molasses and a deeper, richer caramel undertone. Maple syrup or agave could also be explored for different flavor profiles.
- **Coffee Base Options:** As mentioned, strong brewed coffee is a great substitute if you don’t have an espresso machine. For an extra bold kick, consider using a dark roast coffee. For a smoother, less acidic base, cold brew coffee is an excellent choice! Because our pumpkin spice is a syrup, it mixes in beautifully and dissolves seamlessly into cold beverages without clumping.
- **Spice It Up (or Down):** Feel free to adjust the spice blend in the syrup. If you love a stronger ginger kick, add a little extra. If you prefer less clove, reduce it. For ultimate convenience, you can use store-bought pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice in place of all the individual spices in this recipe. Approximately 2 teaspoons of a good quality pumpkin pie spice blend should yield a similar result.
- **Decadent Toppings:** Elevate your latte with luxurious toppings! A generous swirl of homemade whipped cream is always a winner. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of pumpkin pie spice adds visual appeal and a burst of aroma. For a truly indulgent treat, a drizzle of caramel sauce or chocolate syrup can take your PSL to the next level.
- **Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte:** Don’t forget this recipe works wonderfully cold! Simply combine your espresso (or strong coffee), pumpkin spice syrup, and milk over ice. Stir well and enjoy a refreshing twist on your favorite fall drink.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Once the syrup has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a mason jar (preferably with our DIY pour spout!). Store it covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 1 month.
Absolutely! While espresso provides the most authentic coffee shop flavor, you can certainly use strong brewed coffee. Just make sure it’s a robust brew to stand up to the rich pumpkin spice flavor. About 1/2 to 3/4 cup of strong coffee per latte should do the trick.
The pumpkin spice syrup itself is dairy-free. To make the entire latte dairy-free, simply use your favorite non-dairy milk alternative such as almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. All these options froth well and pair deliciously with the pumpkin spice syrup.
No, it’s crucial to use pure pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, which would make your syrup overly sweet and alter the intended spice balance of the recipe. Pure pumpkin puree ensures you have full control over the flavor profile.
The syrup will thicken significantly as it cools in the refrigerator. If, after cooling, it’s still too thin, you can gently simmer it again over low heat for another 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reduces further. Be careful not to burn it.
More Starbucks Copycat Drink Recipes to Try
If you’ve enjoyed mastering this homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte, you’ll be thrilled to discover more of our popular Starbucks copycat drink recipes. Recreate your other coffee shop favorites right in your own kitchen and continue saving money while enjoying delicious, personalized beverages.
Iced Cinnamon Macchiato
Better Than Starbucks Eggnog Latte
Copycat Holiday Spice Flat White
Are you on Pinterest? Click the button below to add this recipe to one of your boards!
Pin this recipe to Pinterest!
Best Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
If you haven’t already learned to make these at home, you should definitely give this recipe a try. This version is the closest I’ve come to tasting like Starbucks, offering a rich, authentic flavor that’s both comforting and invigorating.
Print Recipe |
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, not pie filling)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla, water, and spices) in a saucepan. Whisk well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure sugar dissolves.
- Reduce heat to low-medium and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and carefully strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a heat-proof container to remove any spice particles or pumpkin fibers.
- Allow the syrup to cool completely to room temperature. It will thicken further in the refrigerator but will return to a more fluid state when gently warmed.
- To make the latte: Pull 2 shots of espresso (or use strong brewed coffee), pour in 3 to 4 tablespoons of the pumpkin spice syrup, and fill with steamed or frothed milk. Stir and enjoy!
Notes
Makes approximately 1 pint (32 tablespoons) of syrup.
Using espresso gives a much stronger, more authentic coffee flavor, but strong brewed coffee is a perfectly acceptable alternative if you prefer.
Storage: Once cooled to room temperature, store the pumpkin spice syrup covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Nutrition
Serving: 4 tbsp |
Calories: 26 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 7 g |
Protein: 1 g |
Fat: 1 g |
Saturated Fat: 1 g |
Sodium: 1 mg |
Potassium: 5 mg |
Fiber: 1 g |
Sugar: 6 g |
Vitamin A: 397 IU |
Vitamin C: 1 mg |
Calcium: 1 mg |
Iron: 1 mg