Pumpkin Spice Latte Starbucks Copycat

The Pumpkin Spice Latte Obsession

Every fall, Starbucks fans eagerly await the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) — a cozy, comforting blend of espresso, pumpkin, fall spices, and steamed milk. It’s the beverage that defines autumn, sparking excitement across social media and long lines at coffee shops.

But what if you could make the same delicious drink at home — using real pumpkin and simple ingredients — for a fraction of the price?

That’s where this Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte comes in. This copycat version is easy, customizable, and just as indulgent as the one from your favorite coffee chain — with no artificial flavors, no alcohol, and total control over sweetness, dairy, and spice levels.

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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

• ✅ Tastes just like Starbucks

• 🎃 Made with real pumpkin purée

• 🕒 Takes less than 10 minutes

• 💰 Budget-friendly

• 🧡 Customizable for dietary needs

• 🌿 No artificial syrups or alcohol

• ☕ Perfect for cozy mornings or fall entertaining

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What’s in a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

A Starbucks PSL typically contains espresso, pumpkin-flavored syrup (usually artificially flavored), steamed milk, whipped cream, and pumpkin spice topping.

Our homemade version uses:

• Real pumpkin purée

• Warm spices (like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)

• Vanilla extract

• Brewed espresso or strong coffee

• Milk of choice (dairy or dairy-free)

• Optional sweetener

• Optional whipped cream topping

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Ingredients (Makes 2 servings)

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Small saucepan

• Whisk or milk frother

• Coffee maker or espresso machine

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Mugs

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Pumpkin Mixture

In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together:

• 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée

• 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or sugar

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until it’s warm and fragrant. This brings out the natural sweetness and spice.

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Step 2: Add the Milk

Pour in 2 cups of milk and continue whisking. Heat until steaming, but do not boil. You want it hot and frothy, not scalded.

Optional: Use a milk frother for extra foam, or blend the mixture briefly in a blender for a frothier texture.

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Step 3: Brew the Espresso or Coffee

While your milk mixture is heating, brew ½ cup of strong coffee or 1–2 shots of espresso using your preferred method (espresso machine, Moka pot, French press, or drip).

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Step 4: Combine and Pour

• Divide the coffee or espresso between two mugs.

• Pour the hot pumpkin-milk mixture over the coffee.

• Stir gently to combine.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or extra pumpkin spice. Serve immediately and enjoy your barista-level creation at home.

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Optional Add-Ons and Substitutions

Make It Vegan

• Use non-dairy milk like oat, almond, or coconut.

• Use dairy-free whipped cream or skip it altogether.

• Swap maple syrup for agave or a vegan sugar substitute.

Add a Protein Boost

• Stir in a scoop of unflavored or vanilla plant-based protein powder.

• Add collagen peptides for a skin-friendly boost (not vegan).

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Extra Pumpkin Flavor

• Increase the pumpkin purée to 3 tablespoons.

• Add a few drops of pumpkin extract for a more intense flavor.

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Pumpkin Spice Blend (DIY)

No store-bought pumpkin spice? You can make your own! Mix:

• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon cloves

• ¼ teaspoon allspice

Store in an airtight jar and use 1 teaspoon per batch.

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Why Use Real Pumpkin?

Many store-bought syrups use flavoring instead of real pumpkin. Real pumpkin:

• Adds fiber and nutrients

• Tastes more authentic

• Helps thicken and enrich the drink

• Avoids artificial ingredients

Bonus: You can use leftover pumpkin for muffins, pancakes, or soup!

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair your PSL with pumpkin muffins, apple crisp, or gingersnaps.

• Serve in mason jars for a rustic vibe or clear glass mugs to showcase the latte layers.

• Add a cinnamon stick stirrer for festive flair.

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Storing & Reheating

Can You Make It Ahead?

Yes! You can prepare the milk-pumpkin base ahead and store it in the fridge for 2–3 days.

To serve: Reheat the mixture and add fresh coffee or espresso before serving.

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Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving)

Tip: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk for a lighter version.

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FAQs – Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?

No — use 100% pure pumpkin puree to control sweetness and spice.

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Do I need an espresso machine?

Nope! You can use strong brewed coffee, instant espresso powder, or a French press.

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How do I make it keto?

Use unsweetened almond milk, skip the syrup, and sweeten with stevia or monk fruit.

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Can kids drink this?

Yes, if you omit the espresso. You can make a caffeine-free version with just the milk-pumpkin mixture!

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Is this healthier than Starbucks?

It can be! You control the type of milk, amount of sugar, and real pumpkin content — no preservatives or artificial flavors here.

Final Thoughts: Bring the Coffeehouse Home This Fall

Skip the long lines and bring the café vibes to your kitchen with this rich and creamy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte. Whether you’re sipping it while watching the leaves fall or serving it to guests at a Thanksgiving brunch, this comforting drink delivers all the seasonal feels.

The best part? You know exactly what’s going into it — real ingredients, customizable flavors, and zero artificial additives. It’s a taste of autumn in a mug, and once you try it, you’ll never want to wait in line again.