There’s just something cozy about a homemade spiced coffee drink, and this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe really captures that fall magic right in your kitchen. It’s creamy, warmly spiced, and perfectly sweet—not to mention so easy you’ll be making it all season long.

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

I love this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe because it perfectly balances cozy fall flavors with straightforward ingredients you probably already have. Plus, it feels way fancier than the time it takes to make.

Simple Ingredients: You don’t need any specialty syrups or expensive equipment to get that coffeehouse taste at home.
Quick to Make: From mixing to sipping, you’re out of the kitchen in under 10 minutes—perfect for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups.
Customizable: Whether you want it dairy-free, less sweet, or iced, this recipe adapts to just how you like it.
Comfort in a Cup: It’s like capturing the scent of autumn leaves and cozy sweaters in your mug—perfect for chilly days.

Two clear glass mugs are filled with a light brown pumpkin spice drink, each topped with a thick layer of white whipped cream swirled in a circular pattern. A brown cinnamon stick is placed upright in the whipped cream of each mug. The drinks sit on a white marbled surface that has some sprinkled cinnamon powder around them. Nearby, a small clear bowl contains white cream, and a tall glass bottle filled with a brown pumpkin spice sauce is labeled with black and white stickers. A few more brown cinnamon sticks lie scattered on the surface near the bottle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe plays a starring role to create that signature flavor combination we all crave. Here’s why I trust these pantry staples every time:

Flat lay of a small bowl of bright orange pumpkin puree, a heap of granulated white sugar crystals, a glass bottle of creamy whole milk, a small jar of vanilla extract with a wooden cork, a small mound of warm brown pumpkin pie spice powder, a dark brewed coffee in a clear glass cup, a swirl of smooth whipped cream, and a small pitcher of pale vanilla creamer, all beautifully arranged with soft natural light and gentle shadows, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and richness that brings the drink to life—easy to swap with your favorite plant milk if you prefer.
Unsweetened Pumpkin Puree: Pure pumpkin flavor without extra sugar—pro tip: canned pumpkin works perfectly here.
Granulated White Sugar: Balances the earthy pumpkin with just the right amount of sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Deepens the latte’s aroma and adds a warm, comforting note.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: The secret spice blend elevates everything with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Brewed Coffee: The base of your latte—strong coffee works wonderfully to stand up to all those bold flavors.
Vanilla Creamer: For a luscious finish that softens the coffee’s edge and adds a little indulgence.
Whipped Cream & Pumpkin Pie Spice (for topping): Optional but oh-so-worth-it for presentation and extra cozy vibes.

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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

This recipe really invites your own touch. I personally love to tweak the sweetness or spice level depending on my mood—and that’s part of the fun. You can make it lighter, sweeter, or even turn it into an iced delight.

Dairy-Free Variation: Swap whole milk and creamer for oat milk or almond milk; it froths well and plays nicely with the spices.
Spice It Up: I sometimes add extra pumpkin pie spice or a dash of cinnamon on top for a stronger autumn kick.
Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: Chill your brewed coffee overnight and serve the latte over ice with a splash of cold milk and whipped cream—so refreshing.
Less Sweet: Cut back on the sugar if you prefer subtle sweetness—you can always add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup instead.

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

Step 1: Whisk Together Your Pumpkin Milk Mix

Start by adding your milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice into a glass mixing cup. I like to use a small whisk or a mason jar with a lid to shake it vigorously—either way works! Whisk until it’s combined nice and smooth with no lumps. This mix is the heart of the recipe, so making sure everything is well blended here really pays off in the final cup.

Step 2: Warm It Up

Pop your pumpkin milk mixture in the microwave for about 1 minute. You want it hot, but not boiling—think cozy warm. Heating it helps the flavors mingle and makes it easier to blend with your coffee later. If you don’t have a microwave, warming gently on the stove works wonderfully too, just keep an eye on it.

Step 3: Brew Your Coffee

While your pumpkin mixture is heating, brew a cup of your favorite coffee. I recommend a medium to dark roast here because it stands up beautifully against the pumpkin spices and sweetness. Pour your freshly brewed coffee into a large mug or glass once it’s ready.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Pour the warm pumpkin milk into your cup with coffee, stirring well to combine. Then add the vanilla creamer to make everything luxuriously creamy. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice for that pretty café-style finish.

Top Tip

After making this Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe dozens of times, I’ve learned a few little tweaks that make your cup even better—trust me on these!

Whisk Well: Always mix your pumpkin and milk part until completely smooth before heating; that way you avoid clumps of pumpkin in your latte.
Use Freshly Brewed Coffee: It really makes a difference—avoid stale or leftover coffee for the best flavor.
Don’t Overheat: Heating beyond warm can cause the milk proteins to separate—warm, not boiling is key.
Stir Before Sipping: Ingredients can settle quickly, so give it a good stir before each sip to keep flavors balanced.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Latte - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I always top mine with whipped cream and a fresh sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice—that little touch makes it feel like a treat right out of a cozy café. Sometimes I throw a tiny pinch of cinnamon on top too, especially if I’m sharing with friends or need a little extra warmth on a chilly morning.

Side Dishes

Pair this latte with simple autumn treats like a cinnamon roll, pumpkin bread slice, or even a buttery scone. Those comforting flavors really complement the spices in the latte and turn your coffee break into a mini seasonal celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes serve this in clear glass mugs to show off the creamy layers, drizzling a little caramel or maple syrup on the whipped cream for an extra decadent look. Adding a cinnamon stick as a stirrer is a charming, aromatic touch that guests love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you make extra of the pumpkin-spiced milk base, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I find reheating gently before mixing with fresh coffee keeps it tasting just as fresh. Just make sure not to let it boil when reheating—it can change the texture.

Freezing

One of my favorite hacks is freezing any leftover pumpkin milk mixture in ice cube trays. Those cubes are perfect for iced pumpkin lattes later on or just to add a little pumpkin flavor boost to your regular coffee without watering it down.

Reheating

I gently warm leftover pumpkin milk in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to help it heat evenly. Avoid boiling as it can curdle or separate. Then just add freshly brewed coffee to complete your latte whenever you’re ready for a cozy cup.

Frequently Asked Questions:

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

Absolutely! Swap whole milk and vanilla creamer for your favorite plant-based milks like oat, almond, or soy. I love oat milk for its natural creaminess that mimics dairy well.

What’s the best type of coffee to use for this latte?

A medium to dark roast coffee works best since it has the bold flavor to stand up to pumpkin and spice. Freshly brewed coffee is ideal—concentrated cold brew or espresso shots can also make a rich latte.

Can I prepare the pumpkin spice mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can whisk together the pumpkin, milk, sugar, vanilla, and spices in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. Just warm it gently before adding coffee when you’re ready to enjoy.

How can I make an iced pumpkin spice latte with this recipe?

Simply brew your coffee ahead and chill it overnight. Shake your pumpkin milk mixture well, pour over ice, add the coffee, and top with whipped cream for a refreshing twist.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe has become my go-to comfort drink every fall—there’s something so satisfying about making it from scratch and knowing exactly what’s inside. I love how easy it is to customize and turn any ordinary coffee moment into a little seasonal celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and make this cozy treat your own—you’ll be surprised how much joy a cup of pumpkin-spiced warmth can bring!