There’s nothing cozier than wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte on a crisp fall morning (or let’s be real, any day you need a little extra comfort). This treat delivers that coffee shop magic right from your kitchen: fragrant espresso swirled with real pumpkin puree, sweetened just right, and topped with an irresistible crown of frothed milk and whipped cream. The best part? You control every ingredient, and every cup is brewed to pure, autumn-perfection satisfaction. Let’s make your dream latte a delicious reality!

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for a Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte is surprisingly simple, and each element plays an important part in shaping its decadent flavor and creamy texture. A few pantry staples plus a quick stop at your favorite coffee spot are all you need to create this cafe-worthy classic at home.

Espresso: Rich, bold espresso forms the base; if you don’t have an espresso machine, strong hot coffee will absolutely do the trick.
Milk of choice: Choose a milk that froths well (oat milk is a superstar, but dairy and other plant milks work, too) for creamy, dreamy foam.
Pumpkin puree: Real pumpkin puree gives an authentic, earthy sweetness and silky texture—no syrupy shortcuts here!
Maple syrup: Sweetens the latte naturally, while adding a hint of cozy caramel flavor; adjust to taste.
Pumpkin pie spice: This warming blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves instantly evokes autumn in every sip.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash rounds out the flavors with comforting, bakery-fresh notes.
Whipped cream (optional): Pillowy whipped cream takes this latte into luxurious dessert territory—highly recommended!

How to Make Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Step 1: Heat and Froth Your Milk

Pour your chosen milk into a small pot and set it over medium-low heat on the stove. Warm it gently until hot and almost simmering, but take care not to let it boil—this keeps the milk smooth and perfect for frothing. If you have a milk frother, you’ll get the best results, but you can also vigorously whisk or shake your heated milk in a jar to create that luscious foam.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Espresso Base

Brew two shots of espresso and pour them into a generously sized mug or a glass mason jar (perfect for latte art if you’re feeling creative). Add the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract straight into the hot espresso. Stir well until the pumpkin blends smoothly and the mixture smells absolutely divine.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Now, the magic happens: Froth your hot milk until it’s wonderfully foamy, either using your frother, a handheld whisk, or a tightly sealed jar. Pour the milk slowly over your pumpkin espresso mixture, holding back the extra foam with a spoon. Once poured, spoon the reserved foam right on top—there’s something so satisfying about that thick, creamy cloud.

Step 4: Add Whipped Cream and Finishing Touches

Here’s where you make it truly special. Dollop a generous swirl of whipped cream atop your Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte if you want the full cafe experience. Dust it with a pinch of pumpkin spice or cinnamon, and watch as every sip tastes like cozy sweater weather in a mug.

How to Serve Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Garnishes

Garnishing your latte is where fun and flavor meet. A thick swirl of whipped cream and a little sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon not only look beautiful but add an aromatic hit as you take your first sip. For the ultimate treat, try a drizzle of maple syrup or even a caramel swirl on top—you’ll feel like a barista in your own home.

Side Dishes

The best companions for your Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte are simple pastries and snacks that let those sweet, spiced flavors shine. Think warm cinnamon rolls, pumpkin bread, maple scones, or even a classic buttered croissant. A crisp apple or a handful of roasted pecans also make a wholesome addition for a balanced treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your family or guests by serving the latte in clear glass mugs to show off the pretty layered effect. For gatherings, set up a “latte bar” with extra toppings like chocolate shavings, mini marshmallows, or cinnamon sticks for stirring. If you’re feeling festive, tie a little ribbon around each mug or add a tiny cinnamon stick as a stirrer—a little presentation makes this drink feel even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte, cool it to room temperature, then store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so don’t worry—it reheats beautifully without losing any of its cozy charm.

Freezing

While it’s not ideal to freeze a fully prepared latte (the milk and coffee can separate), you can absolutely freeze the pumpkin espresso base. In an ice cube tray, freeze the pumpkin, spice, maple syrup, and espresso mixture, then pop a couple cubes in a mug and pour over hot milk when you want a quick fix.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your latte gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot but not bubbling. Give it a good whisk or shake to re-froth, add fresh whipped cream if you like, and your homemade masterpiece is ready to enjoy again!

FAQs

Can I make a Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte without an espresso machine?

Absolutely! Use half a cup of very strong, hot brewed coffee in place of espresso. The rich pumpkin and spice flavors will still shine through, and you’ll get all the autumn magic in each mug.

What’s the best milk for frothing in a latte?

Oat milk and whole dairy milk are both fantastic for frothing due to their higher protein and fat content, but almond, soy, and coconut milk options also work well if you use a barista-style version designed for lattes. Just make sure whichever you choose, it’s unsweetened for the most control over flavor.

Can I adjust the sweetness and spice level?

Definitely! The beauty of making a Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte at home is complete control. Add more or less maple syrup and pumpkin pie spice to match your taste—I love a little extra spice for an extra cozy kick.

Is canned pumpkin puree the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No, they’re not interchangeable. Pumpkin puree is pure pumpkin with no added sugar or spices, while pumpkin pie filling contains sweeteners and spices. Always use pure pumpkin puree to avoid an overly sweet or artificially flavored latte.

Can I make a big batch for a crowd?

Absolutely—simply scale up the ingredients and keep the milk and espresso mixture warm in a slow cooker or on low heat. Wait to froth and garnish each cup right before serving for the freshest, foamiest result.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re welcoming fall or just treating yourself to an everyday escape, the Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte is an absolute delight to make at home. Every sip is creamy, warm, and packed with real pumpkin and spices—the perfect mood booster for any season. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised when this homemade favorite becomes your new go-to comfort cup!

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 23 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with this Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe that combines rich espresso, creamy milk, pumpkin puree, and warm spices. It’s a delightful treat perfect for chilly autumn days.

Ingredients

Scale

Espresso:

2 shots espresso (or sub 1/2 cup hot freshly brewed coffee but I prefer espresso)

Milk Mixture:

1 cup milk of choice, preferably a milk that froths well (we love oat milk)
3 tablespoons pumpkin puree
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup, to sweeten
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping:

Whipped cream for topping (optional but recommended)

Instructions

Heat Milk: Pour milk into a small pot and heat over medium-low heat until hot, but do not boil.
Prepare Espresso: Make espresso and pour into a large mug. Add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla. Stir well.
Froth Milk: Use a milk frother to froth the milk until foamy. Pour the frothed milk over the espresso mixture.
Finish and Serve: Top with reserved foam and whipped cream if desired. Sprinkle with pumpkin spice or cinnamon. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American