There’s something about the warm hug of cinnamon and pumpkin combined with creamy coffee that just feels like fall in a cup. This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe is unbelievably cozy and surprisingly easy to whip up at home, perfect for those crisp mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Making your own pumpkin spice latte feels so satisfying, especially when you taste how fresh and balanced it is. You’ll never want to settle for store-bought again because this version gives you all the flavors you adore, with none of the artificial stuff. Trust me, it quickly became my cozy season staple.

Simple Ingredients: Using pantry staples and a bit of pumpkin puree creates a latte that tastes gourmet without any fancy extras.
Customizable Sweetness: You control the sugar, so it’s perfect whether you want a little sweetness or a more indulgent treat.
Quick & Easy: You can have this ready in under 10 minutes, even on busy mornings or when you need a quick dessert.
Cozy & Comforting: It’s the ultimate feel-good beverage that pairs beautifully with chilly weather, making it a must-have for fall vibes.

Two clear glass mugs filled with light brown pumpkin spice drink topped with swirls of white whipped cream sprinkled with light brown spice powder, each mug garnished with a cinnamon stick standing upright in the whipped cream; behind the mugs is a white bottle labeled

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe plays a part in creating a smooth, comforting drink with that signature fall flavor we all adore. Using a blend of pumpkin puree and warm spices adds natural depth, while the milk and creamer bring the creamy texture you expect in a latte.

Flat lay of a small mound of unsweetened pumpkin puree, a pile of granulated white sugar crystals, a vanilla bean pod split open next to a small glass bottle of vanilla extract, a heap of warm whipped cream sprinkled with vibrant pumpkin pie spice, a splash of creamy vanilla creamer in a clear glass jar, and a steaming dark roast coffee cup with swirling steam rising, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Whole milk: Gives the latte richness and helps meld the pumpkin and spices into a velvety swirl.
Unsweetened pumpkin puree: Adds authentic pumpkin flavor and a hint of natural sweetness without overwhelming.
Granulated sugar: Balances out the earthiness of pumpkin and makes the drink pleasantly sweet.
Vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors and adds a subtle aromatic sweetness that's classic in pumpkin spice blends.
Pumpkin pie spice: The star spice combo that brings cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove notes essential to the fall vibe.
Brewed coffee: Use your favorite dark roast for a bold base that stands up to the creamy mix.
Vanilla creamer: Offers an extra creamy, flavorful boost that makes this latte feel indulgent.
Whipped cream: Pure decadence on top, making it feel like a treat every time.
Pumpkin pie spice (for garnish): Adds a final festive touch and nice aroma with every sip.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I like to play around a bit depending on my mood or what I have in the fridge. This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe is such a great base for personalization—feel free to adjust the spices, sweetener, or milk to make it your own seasonal ritual.

Variation: Sometimes I swap whole milk for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version—it still froths nicely and tastes amazing!
Extra Spice Kick: If you love spice, I add a pinch more cinnamon and a dash of ground ginger for a warming boost.
Iced Version: Let your brewed coffee chill overnight and then shake everything together with ice—it's like pumpkin spice magic on a hot day.
Less Sweet: Reduce sugar or try a natural sweetener like maple syrup for a different but delicious profile.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Pumpkin Milk Mixture

Start by combining ¼ cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon unsweetened pumpkin puree, 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice in a glass mixing cup. Whisk it all together really well until you have a smooth, uniform mixture. I like to use a small whisk, but a mason jar with a tight lid and shaking can work just as well. This step ensures your pumpkin and spices dissolve evenly for that smooth flavor burst.

Step 2: Heat the Mixture Gently

Pop the mixture into the microwave for about 1 minute to warm up. It should be hot but not boiling—just enough to deepen the flavors and make it cozy. You want to avoid curdling the milk, so heating gently is key here. Once warmed, pour this into your favorite glass or mug.

Step 3: Brew and Pour Coffee

Next, brew a cup (about 1 cup) of your preferred dark roast coffee. Pour it right into the glass over your creamy pumpkin milk mix. The robust coffee cuts through the sweetness and blends perfectly with that spiced pumpkin flavor.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Creamer & Finish with Toppings

Pour in ¼ cup of vanilla creamer to add creaminess and indulgence to your latte. Top off with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top. This not only looks pretty but amps up the aroma just before sipping.

Top Tip

Making this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe more than once, I’ve learned that a few small details really make it shine, so here are my best tips to get you that creamy, perfectly spiced cup every time.

Mix Thoroughly: Make sure you whisk the pumpkin, milk, sugar, and spices really well before warming. This prevents clumps and ensures every sip tastes balanced.
Gentle Heating: Heat milk gently to avoid curdling—microwave in short bursts or warm on the stove over low heat while stirring.
Fresh Spices: Use fresh pumpkin pie spice or make your own mix at home for a more vibrant, homemade flavor punch.
Adjust Sugar Last: Taste once everything’s combined—you can always add a little more sugar or creamer to suit your preference.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

pumpkin spice latte - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

Personally, I love topping my latte with fluffy whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice to keep things classic and cozy. Sometimes, I add a light dusting of cinnamon or even a tiny drizzle of caramel sauce for a bit of extra sweetness and flair.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a warm cinnamon roll or a slice of spiced pumpkin bread for a truly indulgent fall treat. This pairing always feels like a little celebration in the morning or a decadent mid-afternoon snack.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I love serving Pumpkin Spice Latte in clear glass mugs so everyone can admire those swirling fall colors. Adding a cinnamon stick as a stirrer or a star anise on top makes it festive and extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually mix up the pumpkin milk base ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to two days. Just give it a good stir or whisk before reheating and mixing with fresh coffee to keep flavors vibrant.

Freezing

Freezing the pumpkin milk mixture in ice cube trays is genius for quick pumpkin spice lattes anytime. Just pop a few cubes into hot coffee and stir—you're good to go without extra prep.

Reheating

I reheat leftover pumpkin milk gently in the microwave or on the stove, making sure it doesn’t boil to avoid separation. Pouring warmed pumpkin milk directly into freshly brewed coffee keeps it tasting fresh and balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a milk alternative for this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe?

Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work wonderfully. Just be sure to choose unsweetened versions and adjust sweetness to taste since some plant milks have natural sweetness.

What’s the best way to get that frothy, café-style texture?

Whisking the pumpkin and milk mixture vigorously or shaking it in a sealed jar before heating helps create a lovely froth. Using a handheld frother after heating can up your latte game, too.

Can I make this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe sugar-free?

Yes! You can substitute granulated sugar with sugar-free sweeteners like erythritol or stevia. Just adjust sweetness gradually to avoid bitterness or aftertaste.

Is it better to use homemade pumpkin pie spice or store-bought?

Both work great! Homemade lets you tailor spice ratios and freshness, but store-bought is super convenient and consistent. Try both to see which you like best for this recipe!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe has become my go-to for ushering in the cozy season, and I’m confident you’ll find it just as comforting and delicious. There’s something truly special about making this little ritual yourself—each sip carries a warmth that’s perfect for slow mornings or whenever you want to feel that fall magic. Give it a try and make it your own; I promise you’ll smile with every cup!