| |

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat)

ByFoodarshia

So you’re craving a pumpkin spice latte but don’t feel like selling a kidney at Starbucks? Same. Don’t get me wrong—I love the seasonal vibe of holding that overpriced PSL cup while pretending I have my life together—but making it at home is cheaper, faster, and (dare I say it?) even better.

And the best part? You don’t need to be a barista with a fancy apron and latte art skills. If you can stir, heat, and press a button on your coffee maker, you’re good to go. 😉

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Here’s the deal: this recipe is ridiculously easy.

  • It’s cheap. You’ll spend less on ingredients than you would on two Starbucks runs.
  • It’s customizable. Extra pumpkin? More cinnamon? Oat milk instead of regular? Go wild—it’s your kitchen, not a chain coffee shop.
  • It tastes like fall in a mug. Cozy, creamy, spiced perfection. Basically, a hug disguised as coffee.
  • It’s idiot-proof. I made it half-asleep once and still nailed it. If that’s not a selling point, I don’t know what is.

Course: Drink / Coffee Treat
Cuisine: American (with a seasonal obsession)
Difficulty: Easy (seriously, a toddler could almost pull it off… but don’t test that)
Servings: 2 mugs
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Calories: Around 250 per serving (depends on milk + toppings)
Total time: 15 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing weird, nothing fancy. Just cozy basics and the pumpkin spice MVP lineup:

  • 2 cups milk (any kind—dairy, oat, almond, whatever fuels your soul)
  • 2 tbsp pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling, unless you want chaos)
  • 2–3 tbsp sugar (or honey, maple syrup, whatever sweet life you live)
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (the real stuff if you can swing it)
  • ½ cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso
  • Whipped cream (optional… but let’s be honest, it’s mandatory)
  • Extra pumpkin spice or cinnamon (for that Insta-worthy sprinkle on top)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Milk

Pour the milk and pumpkin puree into a saucepan. Heat gently over medium until hot (but not boiling). Stir often so it doesn’t stick.

2. Add the Flavors

Stir in sugar, pumpkin spice, and vanilla. Whisk like you’re on a cooking show until it’s all smooth and cozy.

3. Froth (Optional, but Fun)

If you have a frother, go wild. If not, whisk vigorously or shake the mixture in a sealed mason jar (careful—it’s hot!). This gives you that foamy Starbucks vibe without leaving your house.

4. Pour the Coffee

Divide brewed coffee or espresso between two mugs. Slowly pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the top.

5. Top Like a Pro

Crown your latte with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice. Take a photo, post it online, and pretend you didn’t already take three sips before snapping it.

That’s it. You just made a homemade pumpkin spice latte that rivals Starbucks. Look at you, being all impressive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using pumpkin pie filling instead of puree. Rookie move. Pie filling already has sugar + spices—it’ll throw everything off.
  • Scorching the milk. Burnt milk smells like sadness. Keep it hot but not boiling.
  • Skipping the froth. Sure, you can skip it, but the foam is half the PSL fun. Don’t cheat yourself.
  • Forgetting whipped cream. Technically optional, but come on—it’s PSL law. 😉
  • Using weak coffee. This drink needs strong coffee or espresso. Don’t bring decaf to this party.

Alternatives & Substitutions

  • Sweetener swap: Try maple syrup for a cozy, fall twist. It pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
  • Dairy-free: Oat milk gives the creamiest texture, almond milk is lighter, soy is in-between. Use what makes you happy.
  • Extra strong: Add an extra espresso shot if you’re facing Monday morning energy levels.
  • Spice DIY: No pumpkin pie spice? Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a pinch. Or add cardamom for a fancy twist.
  • Iced version: Cool everything down, pour over ice, and boom—iced pumpkin spice latte without waiting for Starbucks summer menu.

My personal fave? Oat milk + maple syrup + extra cinnamon. It tastes like fall decided to wrap itself in a cozy blanket and live in my mug.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this without pumpkin puree?
A: Technically yes, but then it’s just “spiced latte.” The pumpkin makes it legit.

Q: Do I need espresso or can I use regular coffee?
A: Either works. Just make your coffee strong, not watery. No one likes a sad PSL.

Q: Can I prep the mix ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Make a pumpkin milk base, keep it in the fridge, and heat it when you want a latte. Saves time.

Q: Is this healthier than Starbucks?
A: IMO, yes. You control the sugar, milk, and portion size. Plus, no mystery syrups.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Totally. Just scale up and invite a friend—or drink it all yourself, I won’t judge. 🙂

Q: What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
A: Mix cinnamon (1 tsp), nutmeg (¼ tsp), ginger (¼ tsp), and cloves (⅛ tsp). Done.

Q: Can I make it iced?
A: Yup. Just let the milk mixture cool and pour it over ice with your coffee. Perfect for those weird warm October afternoons.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it—your very own homemade pumpkin spice latte (Starbucks copycat). It’s easy, cozy, customizable, and saves you from shelling out five bucks every time the fall craving hits.

So grab your favorite mug, light a candle, and enjoy your homemade PSL while pretending you’re in a fall movie montage. Now go impress someone—or just yourself—with your new barista-level skills. You’ve totally earned it. 😉

Similar Posts