The Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe—Cheaper, Better, Faster

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Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) season is upon us, and while Starbucks may have popularized this fall favorite, the price tag and wait time aren’t so appealing. But what if you could whip up a delicious PSL at home—cheaper, better, faster, and just as flavorful? In this post, I’ll show you how to make your own Pumpkin Spice Latte using simple ingredients and a DIY pumpkin pie spice mix.

Why Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Starbucks may have created the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), but it’s taken on a life of its own—complete with its own Twitter account and legions of devoted fans. Even though it’s still August and summer’s hanging on, Starbucks couldn’t resist rolling out their fall menu early. I guess even they can’t get enough of their own PSL! But here’s the kicker: that beloved venti PSL has jumped in price, now costing a whopping $6.95 thanks to inflation. And sure, some folks still brave the lines, but with mobile ordering and the option to order ahead, there are ways to avoid the wait.

But why go through all that when you can make a Pumpkin Spice Latte at home? It’s cheaper, better, and you don’t even have to leave your cozy kitchen.

Ingredients for a Perfect DIY Pumpkin Spice Latte

To pull off this DIY pumpkin spice latte recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The most important? The “pumpkin spice.” Ironically, there’s no actual pumpkin in pumpkin spice mix. It’s simply a mix of the spices typically used in pumpkin pie. While you can buy pumpkin pie spice at the store, it’s often overpriced. Instead, I recommend making your own—I’ll show you how!

Here’s what you’ll need for your homemade PSL:

2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice mix (recipe below), plus more to garnish
Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch
2 tablespoons white granulated sugar (or substitute with Splenda or Stevia)
1 cup half and half (or substitute with whole milk, reduced-fat, or skim milk)
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup hot espresso or strong brewed coffee
Sweetened whipped cream for serving

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home

Making your own Pumpkin Spice Latte at home is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:

Combine Ingredients: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the half and half, pumpkin, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, pepper, and vanilla. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and vent with a small hole.
Heat the Mixture: Microwave until the half and half is hot, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Whisk Until Foamy: Whisk vigorously until the mixture is foamy, about 30 seconds.
Assemble the Latte: Pour the hot espresso or coffee into a large mug, then add the hot, foamed mixture.
Garnish and Serve: Top with sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Enjoy your homemade PSL!

Scroll down or click here to view and print the full recipe →

Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Mix Recipe

Why spend extra on pre-made pumpkin pie spice when you can make it at home for a fraction of the cost? Here’s how to whip up your own spice mix that’s perfect for your PSL and other fall recipes:

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground mace (or substitute with an additional 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg)
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Simply combine all the ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Store your homemade spice mix in an airtight container for up to one year. This recipe multiplies well, so you can always have some on hand!

Click here to view and print the recipe →

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Latte Experience

To ensure your homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte is as delightful as any coffee shop version, here are a few tips:

Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Make sure you’re using canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter has added sugars and spices that will throw off the flavor.
Substitute Half and Half: If you’re not a fan of half and half, feel free to substitute it with whole, reduced-fat, or skim milk, but keep in mind that it might affect the richness of your latte.
Whip It Good: The foam is what gives the latte that creamy texture, so whisking vigorously is key!
Get Creative with Toppings: Besides whipped cream, try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Lattes and Spice Mixes

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

Absolutely! Just use strong brewed coffee in place of espresso.

How long does homemade pumpkin pie spice last?

Stored in an airtight container, your homemade spice mix will stay fresh for up to one year.

Can I use non-dairy milk for a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Yes, you can substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy option, but the texture and flavor may vary.

What else can I use the pumpkin pie spice mix for?

This spice mix is versatile—use it in baking, oatmeal, or even sprinkle it on roasted veggies for a fall twist!

pumpkin spice latte recipe with whipped cream espresso beans and mini pumpkins

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5 from 1 vote

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Skip the long lines and high price tags—this DIY Pumpkin Spice Latte is everything you love about the classic fall drink, but made right in your kitchen. Perfect for those cozy, crisp days!

Prep Time20

Cook Time3

Total Time23

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 432kcal

Ingredients

2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie mix
¼ teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice see Notes
2 tablespoons white granulated sugar or substitute with Splenda or Stevia
Pinch of ground black pepper
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup half and half see Notes
¼ cup hot espresso or strong brewed coffee
Sweetened whipped cream for topping

Instructions

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the half and half, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, black pepper, and vanilla extract. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
Microwave the mixture until the half and half is hot, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Whisk the heated mixture vigorously until it becomes foamy, approximately 30 seconds.
Pour the hot espresso or coffee into a large mug. Add the foamed mixture, stirring gently to combine.
Top with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Enjoy your homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte!

Notes

Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced.

Pumpkin Pie Spice: Store-bought pumpkin pie spice can be pricey. Save money by making your own! Find the recipe below here.

Milk Alternatives: If half and half isn’t your thing, feel free to substitute with whole, reduced-fat, or skim milk.

Nutrition

Question: Are you team Starbucks PSL or DIY PSL? 🍂 Let’s hear your favorite way to enjoy this fall classic.

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Please keep your comments positive, encouraging, helpful, brief,
and on-topic in keeping with EC Commenting Guidelines

Diane says:

August 28, 2024 at 11:04 am

Has anyone tried this with tea? I do not drink coffee. Thanks

georgie says:

August 24, 2024 at 2:46 am

i can’t afford starbucks, so i have no idea what theirs tastes like. i’ve made my own for years. no recipe, just a haphazard sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and allspice. it’s not bad but yours looks better. i will try it, except for the pepper. as a super taster, it burns my mouth. i’m just curious, though, you say what i have long known, there is no pumpkin in pumpkin spice, yet you put it in yours. i’m curious as to why. i also add a spoonful of cocoa to my regular coffee but i’m wondering if you have a recipe for mocha latte? many thanks for all your helpful tips

Mary Hunt says:
August 24, 2024 at 8:35 pm

I can see why that might be confusing! “There’s no actual pumpkin in pumpkin spice mix.”

Kim Rubin says:

September 30, 2021 at 1:11 pm

I make my own PSLs also, but use a homemade pumpkin spice syrup. It’s not the kind of thin syrup such as Torani; it’s a thicker style. I like it better than a thin syrup, and I also substitute the sugar in it with Splenda. It uses canned pumpkin, and is cooked it in a saucepan, which gets rid of the raw taste of the pumpkin. It lasts for 2 weeks in the fridge. I found the recipe online, and use it daily in my morning coffee. I also use Green Mountain Pumpkin Spice K-Cup Pods as they’re a light roast and I don’t like strong coffee. But you can use whichever coffee you prefer.

HOMEMADE PUMPKIN SPICE SYRUP

Yield: approx 2 cups
INGREDIENTS
1 cup water (I found that I prefer it a little thicker so cut down the amount of water a little bit)
3/4 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
1 cup brown sugar or 3/4 cup Splenda
1 tsp vanilla
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk together all the ingredients in a small-medium sized pot. (Make sure you leave a little room for the mixture to expand as it boils.) Turn the heat on medium-high. Whisk occasionally until it begins to simmer, then boil. Turn the heat down to medium and simmer/boil for 2 minutes, whisking occasionally. Remove from the heat, whisk again, and allow to cool.
You can use it immediately or allow the mixture to cool, then pour into a 2 cup mason jar and cover. Store in the refrigerator. It will be thick. You can shake the covered jar or stir to blend again if needed. It should last for about 2 weeks in the fridge.
NOTES
I use approximately 2 Tbsp pumpkin spice syrup for a cup of coffee.