Fall is basically synonymous with pumpkin spice latte, but this sweet and creamy drink is anything but basic! Made with real pumpkin and a custom blend of spices, this PSL is the best thing to happen to your fall, guaranteed.

Overhead view of a latte sprinkled with pumpkin pie spice.

Once the weather drops in the evenings and the cool mornings start, you know it’s pumpkin spice latte season! This dreamy wholesome latte is made with a delicious mix of brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and real pumpkin, meaning it’s extra creamy and smooth.

It might remind you of a Starbucks PSL, but the premium list of ingredients in this recipe means you can make an amazing latte at home, saving you time and money.

One sip and you’ll be hooked!

Overhead view of lattes, whole spices, and white pumpkins.

About this pumpkin spice latte recipe

Pumpkin spice lattes are a fall must-have for a reason! The comforting flavors of pumpkin pie are blended throughout this warm, comforting drink. 

This recipe makes a pumpkin spice syrup that can be used to make several lattes, meaning you make the syrup once but can enjoy lattes all week long. If you’re looking for a shortcut, our iced pumpkin spice latte uses Torani syrup and could be served warm or cold.

Because you’re the barista, you can also adjust how much syrup you add to your drink, and you can choose your own milk or blend of milks. Whole milk will make the thickest, creamiest latte, but you can definitely use a milk with less fat or a non-dairy milk, like almond milk or soy milk. 

And if fall’s unpredictable weather warms up a bit, you can enjoy this latte iced! 

Versatile, adaptable, and delicious. Enjoy!

Pumpkin spice latte in white and earth tone mugs. Spices also pictured.

What’s in a pumpkin spice latte

Pumpkin Brown Sugar Syrup

  • water
  • sugar
  • pumpkin puree
  • pumpkin pie spice

Latte

  • pumpkin brown sugar syrup
  • espresso
  • frothed milk (hot or cold)
Ingredients for a pumpkin spice latte.

How to make a homemade pumpkin spice latte

For the pumpkin spice syrup, heat the water, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice over medium-high heat. Boil until all of the sugar has dissolved— about five minutes.

Allow the mixture to cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store the syrup in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Pumpkin brown sugar syrup in a glass bottle.

To make the latte, combine pumpkin brown sugar syrup and espresso in the bottom of a mug, top with frothed milk.

Pumpkin spice syrup being poured into a mug.

How to make this fall latte your own

  • You can adjust the spices in the pumpkin brown sugar syrup. Try adding a little cinnamon, a ¼ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, or a dash of nutmeg. The flavor profile is up to you!
  • If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try almond milk. A lightly-sweetened vanilla almond milk won’t froth quite as well, but the flavors will be on point! 
  • You can add a whipped topping to your latte. A sprinkle of pie seasoning on top is great, too!
  • Not sure what to do with the leftover pumpkin puree? Check out this great recipe for pumpkin sheet pan pancakes!
  • Light or dark brown sugar will work in this recipe. Use whatever you have on hand!
Overhead view of a pumpkin spice latte in a white mug.

Storage Suggestions

Store syrup in the refrigerator for up to one week.

A latte in a white mug on a white background, sprinkled with a spice mixture including cinnamon.

FAQs

What should I use if I don’t have an espresso maker?

You can use 1/4 cup store-bought coffee concentrate, or 1 packet of instant espresso powder + 1/4 cup hot water, or 1/4 cup very strong brewed coffee.

How do I froth milk at home?

You can use a milk frothing wand (they are about $10) or place the milk in the blender for 10-15 seconds until it starts to thicken, or add the milk to a mason jar and shake it vigorously for 30-60 seconds until it starts to thicken.

More tasty drink recipes

A latte in a white mug on a white background, sprinkled with a spice mixture including cinnamon.

Get the Recipe: Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Fall is basically synonymous with pumpkin spice latte, but this sweet and creamy drink is anything but basic! Made with real pumpkin and a custom blend of spices, this PSL is the best thing to happen to your fall, guaranteed.
5 from 1 rating

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Brown Sugar Syrup

  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

For the Latte

  • 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Brown Sugar Syrup or to taste
  • 1 1/2 ounces espresso (1 shot)
  • 1/2 cup frothed milk hot or cold

Instructions

Pumpkin Brown Sugar Syrup

  • Heat a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the water, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until all of the sugar has dissolved— about five minutes.
  • Allow the mixture to cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store the syrup in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Make the Latte

  • Combine the pumpkin brown sugar syrup and espresso in the bottom of a mug. Pour the frothed milk over the espresso. Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.

Notes

  • Light or dark brown sugar will work in this recipe. Use whatever you have on hand!
  • Any milk will work in this recipe (even non-dairy) although whole milk will make the thickest, creamiest latte.
  • What to Use if You Don’t Have an Espresso Maker: 1/4 cup store-bought coffee concentrate, or 1 packet of instant espresso powder + 1/4 cup hot water, or 1/4 cup very strong brewed coffee
  • How to Froth Milk at Home: Use a milk frothing wand or place the milk in the blender for 10-15 seconds, or until it starts to thicken, or add the milk to a mason jar and shake it vigorously for 30-60 seconds, or until it starts to thicken.
  • This latte is delicious when hot or iced!
Calories: 108kcal, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 12mg, Sodium: 55mg, Potassium: 161mg, Sugar: 14g, Vitamin A: 198IU, Calcium: 138mg