Perfectly creamy, sweet, and spiced, this Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte is sure to make your fall feel extra sweet! A few years ago, I shared my PSL recipe on YouTube. It was something I’d been making for a while, but I finally felt it was ready to share with the world. Many of you called it the best PSL you’d ever had, and to this day, I still hear from people who make it every fall.

What sets this pumpkin spice latte apart are the flavors that truly capture autumn in a cup: pumpkin puree, cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, a drizzle of maple syrup for that much-needed sweetness, creamy frothed milk, and a swirl of whipped cream on top. It’s the kind of drink that instantly brings to mind all the sweetness of the fall season.

For me, this latte has always been tied to my favorite fall traditions. I’d sip one before heading to a bonfire with friends, braving a haunted house, or settling in for a scary movie with my dog. Back in college, it even served as my little motivation to roll out of bed for those 8 a.m. classes. A warm cup in hand gave me just the right balance of comfort and energy.

What Makes This Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe Comforting?

Warm spices: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves from the pumpkin pie spice creates that cozy, familiar flavor we associate with fall.
Creamy texture: The milk and pumpkin puree make it velvety and rich.
Pumpkin & maple: Pumpkin puree adds heartiness, while maple syrup brings a gentle sweetness that feels natural and soothing.
Nostalgia factor: A PSL marks the start of fall traditions like bonfires, haunted houses, and movie nights with friends.
Homemade touch: Making it yourself means you can slow down, enjoy the process, and sip your cozy café-style drink right at home.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Ingredients

Milk (any kind): Provides a creamy and smooth base that balances all the flavors.
Pumpkin puree: Adds natural sweetness and a rich, earthy pumpkin flavor.
Pure maple syrup: Brings warmth and sweetness.
Pumpkin pie spice: Infuses aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Pure vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
Freshly brewed coffee or espresso: Brings bold, roasted richness to balance the spices.
Whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice: The perfect topping to finish the drink.

The components of fall…. Pumpkin and Spice!

How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte

Making a pumpkin spice latte is quick, easy, and fun!

Make the pumpkin mixture: In a small saucepan, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla. Heat over medium until hot but not boiling.
Froth it: Froth the mixture using a frother or blender.
Pour it over coffee/espresso: Pour the hot coffee or espresso into a mug. Add your pumpkin milk mixture and stir to combine.
Make it pretty: Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Sip and enjoy your cozy homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte!

Tips & Tricks for the Best Pumpkin Spice Latte

Adjust the spice: Do you love a much stronger pumpkin spice kick? Add an extra pinch of pumpkin pie spice to bring out more warmth.
Make it ahead: Double or triple the pumpkin mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. That way, you can whip up a PSL in minutes.
Use whipped cream (either dairy or non-dairy): Don’t skip the whipped cream! It makes the latte feel like a true treat. Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top for the perfect finish.

Pumpkin Spice Latte FAQs

Can I make this latte without coffee?
- Yes! You certainly can. Simply skip the coffee or espresso and use more milk for a cozy pumpkin spice steamer.
Can I make it dairy-free?
- Definitely. I actually prefer using dairy-free milk. Almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk all work wonderfully. All that matters is that you use your favorite.
What’s the best way to sweeten a pumpkin spice latte?
- Maple syrup gives the drink a warm, natural sweetness, but you can also use honey, agave, or brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this latte ahead of time?
- Yes! Make the pumpkin milk mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat (or pour over ice) when you’re ready to enjoy.
Do I need pumpkin pie spice?
- Pumpkin pie spice makes it easy, but if you don’t have any, you can mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for the same cozy flavor.
Can I make it iced?
- Absolutely. Use chilled espresso or cold brew, pour the cooled pumpkin milk mixture over ice, and finish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice.
Does it really taste like it’s from a coffee shop?
- Yes, it does…but even better! It’s creamier, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and you can adjust the flavors to your liking. You’ll feel at peace knowing it’s homemade with no artificial syrups.

Try It Iced!

Chill the mixture: Let the pumpkin spice latte cool in the fridge before pouring it over ice. This keeps your drink from watering down too quickly.
Use cold brew or chilled espresso: Instead of hot coffee, use strong cold brew or espresso that’s been cooled. It’ll give you that bold coffee flavor without melting your ice.
- For Espresso: Use 2 shots (about 2 ounces total)
- For Cold brew: Use about ½ cup (4 ounces)
Bump up the sweetness: Cold drinks often taste less sweet than hot ones. Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup if you like your iced PSL a little sweeter.
Finish it beautifully: Don’t skip adding the whipped cream and sprinkling on pumpkin pie spice! It’s the PSL signature.

Hopefully you find this drink fun to make! It’s truly a special treat. It’s more than just a drink. It’s a cozy ritual that brings the flavors of fall straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re sipping it on a crisp fall morning, sharing it with friends, or curling up in a blanket for a movie night, this PSL is comfort in a cup. Once you try it, you may never go back to the coffee shop version again! XO