Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

This homemade pumpkin spice latte is rich, creamy, and warmly spiced with real pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Two shots of espresso give it a bold coffee flavor that doesn't disappear behind the pumpkin and milk, and the whole latte is ready in just 5 minutes.

You can make it with or without an espresso machine, and I've included my favorite dairy-free milk options too. The key is using a rich, creamy milk and a smooth pumpkin puree so the finished latte tastes creamy rather than watery or gritty.

Jump to:

• Recipe Overview: Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Why This Recipe Works
• Key Ingredients & Substitutions
• How to Make a Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
• 📖 Recipe
• Expert Tips
• More pumpkin Spice recipes
• 💬 Comments

Why This Recipe Works

• Two shots of espresso keep the coffee flavor bold. With only ½ cup of milk, the espresso stays prominent instead of getting lost behind the pumpkin and warm spices.
• You don't need a separate pumpkin syrup. Real pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice go directly into the latte, so it comes together in about 5 minutes.
• The milk makes a noticeable difference. Whole milk and barista-style plant milks give the creamiest result. If you're using a thinner plant milk, adding a small amount of creamer gives the latte more body.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

You need just six ingredients for this homemade pumpkin spice latte. Here's what makes the biggest difference in the finished drink.

Espresso

I prefer 2 shots of espresso because the bold coffee flavor balances the pumpkin, milk, and spices. An espresso machine works beautifully, but you don't need one-you can also use instant espresso or strongly brewed coffee. For espresso-style coffee without a machine, see my French Press Espresso or AeroPress Espresso guides.

Pure Pumpkin Puree

Use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. I prefer a thick canned puree such as Libby's because it adds pumpkin flavor without thinning the latte. If you're using homemade pumpkin puree, strain out any fibrous pieces first so the drink stays smooth.

Creamy Milk

Whole milk or a barista-style oat or almond milk gives me the creamiest latte. If you're using a thinner milk such as regular almond or hemp milk, use about ⅓ cup milk plus 2-3 tablespoons of dairy or dairy-free creamer for a richer texture.

More Ingredient Notes

• Maple Syrup: One tablespoon gives the latte a lightly sweet flavor. Add more or less to taste. Honey or sugar also works if you don't need it to be vegan.
• Pumpkin pie spice: Use a store-bought blend or my homemade pumpkin pie spice. I like having the blend already mixed because this recipe only needs ¼ teaspoon.
• Vanilla: A small amount rounds out the pumpkin, maple, and warm spices without overpowering the espresso.

See the recipe card for full quantities.

How to Make a Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

You need only 5 minutes and three steps to make this easy pumpkin spice latte recipe from start to finish!

1. Mix the pumpkin espresso. Add the hot espresso, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice to a mug. Whisk until the pumpkin is completely incorporated and the mixture looks smooth.
2. Heat and froth the milk. Steam or gently warm the milk until hot, then froth if desired. Don't boil it.
3. Finish the latte. Pour the hot milk into the pumpkin-espresso mixture and stir to combine. Spoon any milk foam over the top and finish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if you like.

Hint: The milk you use for this recipe makes a very big difference in how this recipe turns out. The pumpkin puree and bold pumpkin pie spices beg for a rich and creamy milk. I included detailed notes in the "Ingredient Notes" section above and in the recipe card notes.

When you make this recipe, please leave a rating and review below. I always appreciate the feedback! ❤️

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