Pumpkin Spice Drinks Recipe

This recipe is my fall obsession because it delivers the perfect blend of cozy, seasonal flavors with the ease of homemade comfort. There’s something so satisfying about crafting my own pumpkin spice latte and customizing it to my taste—plus, it makes my kitchen smell like autumn bliss!

As the leaves of autumn start to drop, I enjoy snuggling up with my go-to pumpkin spice beverage. With creamy milk, a spot of pumpkin puree, and an enchanting blend of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, my drink is both soothing and indulgent.

Balanced with brewed espresso and topped with whipped cream, it serves as the ideal flavor of the month.

Ingredients

• Pumpkin Puree: Rich in fiber and vitamin A, adds natural sweetness.
• Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Provides creaminess, calcium, and protein.
• Sugar: Sweetens the drink; use as desired for taste.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and subtle sweetness, aids digestion.
• Ground Ginger: Provides spiciness, known for anti-inflammatory properties.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor with aromatic sweetness.
• Espresso or Strong Coffee: Caffeinated kick, adds depth and bitterness.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups milk or plant-based milk of choice
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• Pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan set over medium heat, whisk together the milk and pumpkin puree until blended and warmed.

2. Put the sugar, along with the ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg into the saucepan. Stir well until the spices fully incorporate.

3. Take the saucepan off the burner and mix in the vanilla extract.

4. A frother or whisk makes foam in the pumpkin milk mixture.

5. Separate out the espresso or strong coffee and brew it.

6. Transfer the made espresso or coffee to a wide cup. Get it ready for layering.

7. Gently drizzle the pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee, spooning the foam that forms in the mixture back into the container until you are ready to pour it over the coffee.

8. Spoon the foam onto the drink so it can become frothy.

9. For an indulgent touch, top with whipped cream.

10. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for added flavor. Sip and savor your warm pumpkin spice drink!

Equipment Needed

1. Small saucepan
2. Whisk
3. Frother or additional whisk
4. Espresso maker or coffee brewer
5. Wide cup or mug
6. Spoon

FAQ

• Can I use a different sweetener?You can indeed use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute of your choosing in place of sugar.
• Can this be made iced?Of course! Simply allow the blend to cool after it has been heated, then pour it over ice before introducing the espresso or coffee.
• Is it possible to make this caffeine-free?Yes, just leave out the espresso or coffee, or switch it for a version made with decaffeinated beans.
• What type of pumpkin puree should I use?Utilize plain canned pumpkin puree. Do not use pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.
• How can I make this drink vegan?Make the drink vegan-friendly by using plant-based milk and a vegan sweetener.
• Can I prepare the pumpkin spice mix in advance?You can indeed blend the pumpkin puree with spices and keep it in the fridge for a week.
• What is the serving size of this recipe?This recipe yields about two servings, but that can vary with your cup size.

Substitutions and Variations

Milk or plant-based milk of choice: For a dairy-free option, substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
Pumpkin puree can be swapped with sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree. The result: a different flavor. Still delicious.
Sweeteners: Use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute such as stevia for a lower-sugar alternative.
Cinnamon: Substitute in equal amounts allspice or pumpkin pie spice for a slightly different profile.
Vanilla essence: Use almond essence in its place for a delightfully nutty flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use freshly ground spices if possible. This can significantly enhance the aroma and taste of your pumpkin spice drink.