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This pumpkin spice latte brings the cozy flavors of autumn right into your cup. Combining rich espresso with creamy milk and the warm aroma of pumpkin pie spices, it’s a comforting drink that feels like a hug on chilly days. Handmade at home, you can adjust the sweetness and spice to fit your mood perfectly, making each sip tailored just for you.
I first tried this recipe on a crisp autumn morning with friends, and it instantly became our seasonal favorite. The inviting scent alone makes everyone pause and smile.
Ingredients
- Espresso or strong coffee: Two shots of espresso or one cup of strong coffee, the backbone for that robust coffee flavor you need
- Milk: One cup of milk (dairy or plant based options both work well, choose fresh and creamy for the best texture)
- Pumpkin puree: Two tablespoons of pumpkin puree, opt for pure pumpkin without added spices or sugar for authentic taste
- Pumpkin pie spice: One tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice, adds the classic autumn warmth, if unavailable, a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can substitute
- Sweetener: One tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar, natural sweeteners that complement pumpkin beautifully, adjust according to your sweetness preference
- Whipped cream: Whipped cream for topping, optional, but it adds a luxurious finish and extra indulgence
Instructions
- Savour the espresso or coffee:
- Prepare two shots of espresso or brew a strong cup of coffee using your chosen method. The coffee should be rich and aromatic to counterbalance the milk and spices.
- Warm the pumpkin milk mixture:
- In a saucepan over a medium flame, combine the milk and pumpkin puree. Stir continuously until the mixture is hot but not boiling to prevent curdling and to fully blend the flavors. This step is crucial for that silky texture.
- Season and sweeten:
- Add the pumpkin pie spice and your sweetener of choice into the warm pumpkin milk blend. Stir until everything is fully dissolved and evenly combined to ensure every sip has the perfect hint of spice and sweetness.
- Combine coffee and pumpkin blend:
- Pour the brewed coffee into a large mug. Slowly pour the warm pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee and gently stir to blend the flavors without losing the frothy texture.
- Finish with whipped cream:
- If desired, top your latte with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of additional pumpkin pie spice for that classic café presentation.
Pumpkin puree is my favorite ingredient here because it adds a natural creaminess and subtle sweetness that transforms ordinary coffee into something special. My family and I have enjoyed this recipe during our autumn gatherings, making it a special ritual we all look forward to every year.
Storage Tips
Pumpkin spice latte is best enjoyed fresh because the spices and dairy flavors shine the most right after preparation. If you have leftovers, store the mixture (without coffee) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, then reheat gently before serving. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the spices and milk balanced.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, cooked and mashed butternut squash can be a suitable alternative with a slightly different but equally comforting flavor. For the pumpkin pie spice, a homemade blend of equal parts cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and cloves works perfectly and allows you to control the intensity of each spice. Almond milk or oat milk are excellent dairy free options that complement the pumpkin flavor and create a creamy latte experience without overpowering the spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your pumpkin spice latte alongside freshly baked croissants, cinnamon rolls, or spiced cookies for a full autumnal treat. A dash of chocolate powder or a light drizzle of caramel on top of the whipped cream can add an extra layer of indulgence if you want to experiment. For an adult twist, a splash of bourbon or spiced rum stirred in transforms this cozy latte into a festive cocktail.
Enjoy this cozy pumpkin spice latte warm for the best flavor. Adjust spices and sweetness to make it your own.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Quels ingrédients composent cette boisson ?
Elle combine espresso ou café fort, purée de citrouille, lait, un mélange d'épices automnales et un édulcorant comme le sirop d'érable.
- → Peut-on utiliser du lait végétal ?
Oui, le lait d'amande, avoine ou soja convient parfaitement pour une version végétale.
- → Comment ajuster l'intensité des épices ?
Modifiez la quantité d'épices utilisées selon votre préférence pour un goût plus ou moins prononcé.
- → Peut-on préparer cette boisson à l'avance ?
Il est préférable de la consommer fraîchement préparée pour préserver toutes ses saveurs et textures.
- → Comment personnaliser la douceur ?
Ajoutez plus ou moins de sirop d'érable ou sucre brun selon votre goût personnel.