Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte (Without the Syrupy Sweetness)

Every fall I find myself craving that first sip of pumpkin spice coffee. But here’s the truth: the Starbucks version is far too sweet for me. I can hardly taste the coffee itself, and that’s what I love most. Last year I experimented with making pumpkin syrups, but honestly this method is my favorite. It’s simple, creamy, and perfectly balanced. You can taste the coffee, the spice, and the cozy pumpkin flavor without the sugar overload.

This pumpkin cream mixture is inspired by my Pumpkin White Russian recipe, and it doubles beautifully as the base for either a true latte with espresso or an easy upgrade to your morning brewed coffee.

---

Pumpkin Cream Recipe

Ingredients

• ½ cup pumpkin purée (not pie filling)

• ½ cup maple syrup (or simple syrup)

• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the pumpkin, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice over medium heat until smooth and fragrant.

2. Stir in the cream (or half-and-half) and heat until warm, but don’t boil.

3. Store in a jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake before using.

How to Use It

For a classic pumpkin spice latte, stir a couple spoonfuls of the pumpkin cream into freshly brewed espresso and top it off with steamed milk. For everyday brewed coffee, add 3–4 spoonfuls of the cream straight into your mug, swirl until smooth, and finish with a little extra milk or half-and-half for creaminess. Serve it steaming hot on a chilly morning or pour it over iced coffee for a refreshing fall treat.

---

Pumpkin Spice Latte Barista Notes

• No espresso machine? No problem. A Moka pot makes a strong, rich stovetop espresso that’s perfect for lattes. Pair it with a wand frother for silky milk that doesn’t get too thick. Just be sure to warm the milk then froth.

• Whipped cream makes it magic. Top your mug with a generous swirl of whipped cream, then finish with pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, or nutmeg for that cozy coffee-shop touch.

• Hot or iced, your call. This pumpkin cream works just as well in a steaming latte as it does in a tall glass of iced coffee. Shake it up before using so it blends in smoothly.

---

Hi, we’re Kevin & Kate!

We share delicious recipes, nostalgic classics, and cocktail inspiration — all designed to make everyday moments feel special. Through our curated date nite menus and seasonal creations, we love bringing people back to the table with food and drinks that feel both approachable and elevated.

---