Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

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This Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte isn’t just a cup of coffee; it’s a sip of fall, imbued with the warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The PSL is a perfect companion for those enchanted evenings curled up with a good book or brisk mornings gearing up for the day.

I know how eagerly many of us await the return of Starbucks’ signature fall treat. But what if you could capture that essence of fall anytime at home?

How to make Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

The Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is a seasonal coffee drink that combines espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin puree, and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. It’s typically topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spices.

Ingredients:

• Espresso or Strong Brewed Coffee: 1 or 2 shots of espresso, depending on your preference. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee works as an alternative (about 1/2 cup).
• Milk: 2 cups. For an authentic experience, whole milk is preferred, but feel free to use oat, almond, soy, or any milk of your choice for a dairy-free version.
• Pumpkin Puree: 2 tablespoons. Ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Sugar: 2 tablespoons or adjust to taste. Alternatively, sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or stevia can also be used.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1/2 teaspoon. This is a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. If you don’t have this, you can make a quick blend or use cinnamon.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon to add a hint of vanilla.
• Whipped Cream: for topping.
• Extra Pumpkin Pie Spice or Cinnamon for garnishing.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Espresso or Coffee: Start by brewing your espresso or making a strong coffee. If using coffee, aim for a rich, bold brew to mimic the espresso’s intensity.
2. Heat and Mix the Flavors: In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Froth the Milk: If you have a milk frother, use it to add some frothiness to your milk mixture. No frother? No problem. Simply whisk vigorously by hand or use a blender, being careful with the hot liquid.
4. Combine: Pour the brewed espresso or coffee into a large mug. Add the vanilla extract to the espresso. Then, pour the hot pumpkin-spice milk mixture on top. Stir to mix everything well.
5. Garnish and Serve: Top your latte with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top for that extra touch of fall.

Tips for the Perfect PSL:

• Quality Ingredients Matter: The better the quality of your coffee and spices, the closer you’ll get to the Starbucks experience.
• Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to your liking. The recipe aims for balance, but everyone’s sweetness preference varies.
• Experiment with Milk Options: Different milks can change the taste and texture of your PSL. Playing with various options helps you find your perfect match.
• Keep it Warm: Serve your PSL in a pre-warmed mug to keep it deliciously hot for longer.
• Savor and Customize: The beauty of making your own PSL is the ability to adjust spices, coffee strength, and sweetness. Experiment until you find your perfect blend.

What to serve with

Enjoying a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is about more than just the drink; it’s about creating an experience that epitomizes the essence of fall. To elevate this experience, consider pairing your homemade PSL with complementary treats that enhance the flavors and vibes of this seasonal favorite.

1. Pumpkin Bread or Muffins: A slice of moist pumpkin bread or a few pumpkin muffins are perfect for your Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte. The matching pumpkin flavors harmonize beautifully, creating a double dose of that cozy autumn feeling. For an extra touch, sprinkle some pumpkin seeds or chocolate chips on top before baking.

2. Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake: The warm, sweet spice of cinnamon entwined within a soft, buttery coffee cake makes for a delightful pairing with the spiced notes of a PSL. The cinnamon complements the pumpkin spice perfectly, offering a comforting treat that’s hard to resist.

3. Maple Glazed Scones: The rich maple flavor of these scones will complement the complexity of the PSL, adding a layer of woodsy sweetness that echoes the essence of fall. For those who enjoy baking, integrating pecans or walnuts into the scones can add a satisfying crunch.

4. Apple Pie or Tart: An all-American classic, apple pie or a simple apple tart with a buttery crust brings a fruity sweetness that contrasts pleasantly with the creamy, spiced latte. Opt for varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a balance of sweet and tart flavors.

5. Chai Spiced Cookies: If you’re fond of spices, chai-spiced cookies are a splendid choice, blending cardamom, cloves, and ginger with your PSL’s own array of spices. These cookies complement the drink and elevate the whole spice experience.

6. Ginger Snaps: For those who prefer a bit of a spicy kick, ginger snaps offer a crisp, robust flavor that stands up to the PSL’s richness. The fiery bite of ginger and the cookie’s comforting snap makes for a refreshing pairing.

7. Brie and Apple Crostinis: For a savory twist, consider serving brie and apple-topped crostinis. The creaminess of the brie cheese combined with the crispness of freshly sliced apples on a toasted baguette offers a sophisticated pairing that balances out the sweetness of the PSL.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) at home is a delightful way to usher in the fall season, and it gives you the flexibility to modify the ingredients to cater to your dietary needs, taste preferences, or what you currently have in your pantry.

Milk

The base of the PSL is typically whole milk, which adds to the creaminess of the latte. You can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free version. These alternatives will alter the taste slightly but can add their unique flavors that complement the pumpkin and spice well.

Pumpkin Puree

Using real pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) is key for that authentic pumpkin flavor in your PSL. However, if you find yourself without it or prefer a pumpkin-free version, sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree can be excellent substitutes. They offer a similar texture and sweetness, with subtle differences in taste.

Pumpkin Pie Spice

Pumpkin pie spice blends cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice. If you don’t have a pre-made mix, you can create your own using those individual spices. Start with a base of cinnamon and add the others to your taste. This allows you to customize the spice profile to your preference.

Coffee

The original Starbucks PSL uses a strong espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can substitute it with a strongly brewed coffee. Another alternative for a caffeine-free version is to use decaffeinated coffee or even a chicory coffee substitute.

Sweetener

The classic recipe calls for sugar, but you can easily customize this by using alternatives like maple syrup, honey, or even sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie option.

Frothing

Creating that perfect froth without a steam wand can be challenging but not impossible. You can warm and whisk your milk mixture by hand or use a handheld milk frother. For non-dairy milk, barista editions froth up remarkably well due to their formulation.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte at home is a rewarding experience that brings the essence of autumn right into your kitchen. With these steps, ingredients, and tips, you’re well on your way to sipping on a cup of cozy, spiced perfection.

More Drink Recipes:

• Dunkin’ Cookie Butter Cold Brew Recipe
• Homemade Coffee Bean Cookie Butter Recipe