There’s nothing quite like a warm cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte in a fall season. Its comforting flavors make it popular in cooler months.
Contents
Pumpkin spice latte recipe
The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) combines espresso, steamed milk, and a blend of traditional fall spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
Starbucks created this latte in early 2003 after their winter seasonal drink successes. This drink immediately became a phenomenon. It had been sold for 200 million cups in 2015 and became Starbucks’ best seasonal drink.
I love everything about this Starbucks fall drink: the warmth, the aromatic steam, and the perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes. Here’s how to make the pumpkin spice latte:
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice plus extra for garnish
- 2 shots of espresso
- Whipped cream optional, for topping
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Heat the mixture until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk the mixture vigorously until it becomes frothy.
- Pour espresso into two mugs and divide the milk mixture evenly between the mugs.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Nutrition
This drink has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a wide range of pumpkin spice-flavored products from candles to breakfast cereals.
Pairing suggestions
PSL complements many dishes. The warm spices in PSL can enhance the flavors of various sweet and savory foods:
- Baked Goods:
- Spiced cookies match the latte’s warmth.
- Pumpkin scones complement the latte’s flavors.
- Traditional scones pair well with clotted cream.
- Breakfast Items:
- Pancakes pair well with latte’s spices.
- Waffles complement the latte’s spices.
- French toast enhances the PSL experience.
- Muffins make a delightful pairing with the latte.
- Savory Dishes:
- Quiche offers a savory contrast to the latte’s sweetness.
- Breakfast burritos balance the sweetness of the PSL.
- A light charcuterie board featuring nuts and dried fruits add both savory and sweet layers.
- Rich aged cheddar or creamy brie balances the latte’s sweetness.
- Desserts:
- Pumpkin cheesecake enhances the latte’s flavor.
- Classic cheesecake topped with caramel pairs with the pumpkin latte.
- Pumpkin spice tiramisu incorporates the latte’s flavors.
- Cinnamon rolls harmonizes with the warm spices of the drink
- Snacks:
- Spiced nuts add a crunchy texture to the latte.
- Sweet popcorn provides a pleasant snack with the PSL.
- Caramel popcorn pairs well with the latte.
Variations
There are numerous creative variations of the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL).
- Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte is a refreshing cold drink.
- Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte is a soothing caffeine-free drink. It blends chai tea with pumpkin puree and spices.
- Creamy Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew combines cold brew, cashew milk, and spices.
- Golden Version mixes turmeric and black pepper with pumpkin spice. It creates an anti-inflammatory caffeine-free option.
- Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte blends matcha, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. The drink is rich in antioxidants.
- Customization Options
- Extra espresso adds caffeine and bolder flavor to the drink.
- Different milk types adjust creaminess and flavor profile.
- Flavor enhancements elevate sweetness with cinnamon dolce syrup or caramel.
- Cold foam swaps whipped cream for pumpkin cream cold foam.
