Introduction
The Pumpkin Spice Latte with Whipped Cream is the ultimate cozy drink of autumn. Its warm blend of pumpkin purée, aromatic spices, creamy milk, and strong coffee makes it a seasonal classic. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, this latte is not just a drink — it’s a hug in a mug. Popularized by cafés, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, giving you a rich, indulgent treat without the price tag.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it perfectly captures the flavors of fall in every sip. The combination of pumpkin and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates an irresistible aroma that instantly feels festive. Making it at home also means you can customize the sweetness, strength of coffee, and creaminess to your preference. Plus, it’s way more affordable (and healthier!) than the café version.
Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility — it can be made with regular milk, oat milk, almond milk, or any dairy-free alternative. You can also enjoy it hot for chilly mornings or iced for warmer afternoons. It’s comfort and indulgence, all in one cup.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Brings the flavors of fall into your home.
- Much cheaper and healthier than store-bought café lattes.
- Can be customized for dietary needs.
- A perfect balance of pumpkin, spice, and creaminess.
- Makes your home smell like autumn while it simmers!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2 lattes
- Calories: ~250 kcal per serving (with whipped cream)
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Beverage, Coffee Drink, Dessert Drink
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy alternative)
- 2 tbsp pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tbsp sugar (or maple syrup, honey, or sweetener of choice)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup strong brewed coffee (or 2 shots espresso)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Extra cinnamon or nutmeg (for garnish)
Simple Cooking Directions
- Heat pumpkin purée, sugar, and spices.
- Stir in milk and warm until steaming.
- Add vanilla and whisk until frothy.
- Pour over coffee or espresso.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkle of spice.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Cook the pumpkin and spices
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together pumpkin purée, sugar, and pumpkin spice until well combined and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Add the milk
- Stir in the milk and continue whisking until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Add vanilla and froth
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and use a whisk or milk frother to make it slightly foamy.
- Prepare the coffee
- Brew strong coffee or espresso and divide between two mugs.
- Pour and mix
- Pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee and stir gently.
- Top it off
- Add a generous swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg.
How to Serve
- Serve hot in a cozy mug, topped with whipped cream.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a café-style presentation.
- Pair with cookies, pumpkin bread, or a slice of apple pie.
Additional Tips
- Use freshly brewed espresso for the best café-style taste.
- If you prefer a lighter drink, use half milk and half water.
- Adjust sweetness to taste — you can make it sugar-free with stevia or monk fruit.
- For extra froth, use a handheld frother or blender.
Variations
- Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: Let the pumpkin milk mixture cool, then pour over iced coffee and top with whipped cream.
- Vegan Latte: Use oat milk or almond milk and top with coconut whipped cream.
- Extra Spiced: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for warmth.
- Boozy Twist: Stir in a splash of Baileys, Kahlua, or spiced rum for a holiday cocktail.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigerator: Store pumpkin milk mixture (without coffee) in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as dairy (and non-dairy) milk may separate when thawed.
Special Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or milk frother
- Coffee maker or espresso machine
- Measuring spoons/cups
- Mug for serving
Conclusion
The Pumpkin Spice Latte with Whipped Cream is more than a seasonal drink — it’s a celebration of fall itself. Cozy, creamy, and spiced to perfection, this homemade version rivals any café latte. Easy to make, customizable, and deeply comforting, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves pumpkin and the magic of autumn.
Pumpkin Spice Latte with Whipped Cream
Description
The Pumpkin Spice Latte with Whipped Cream is the ultimate cozy drink of autumn. Its warm blend of pumpkin purée, aromatic spices, creamy milk, and strong coffee makes it a seasonal classic. To
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Cook the pumpkin and spices : In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together pumpkin purée, sugar, and pumpkin spice until well combined and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
-
Add the milk : Stir in the milk and continue whisking until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
-
Add vanilla and froth : Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and use a whisk or milk frother to make it slightly foamy.
-
Prepare the coffee : Brew strong coffee or espresso and divide between two mugs.
-
Pour and mix : Pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee and stir gently.
-
Top it off : Add a generous swirl of whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg.
