Pumpkin Spice Latte Uncovered: Recipe, Ingredients & Expert Tips

Introduction

The Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is an iconic autumn beverage that captures the essence of fall with its warm spices, smooth espresso, and creamy milk. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply love cozy, seasonal drinks, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about the PSL—from its origin and ingredients to how to perfect it at home.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

•  Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe – A step-by-step guide to making a barista-level PSL at home.

•  Best ingredients for an authentic flavor – Choosing the right coffee, milk, and spices.

•  How to make an iced Pumpkin Spice Latte – A refreshing twist on this fall favorite.

•  Pumpkin Spice Latte calories & healthy alternatives – Ways to enjoy a lighter PSL.

•  FAQs: When does the Pumpkin Spice Latte come out? How much caffeine is in a PSL?

This guide is backed by research from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), World Coffee Research, and Barista Hustle, ensuring expert-backed information.

What is a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

A Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is a seasonal espresso-based beverage that combines:

• Espresso – Provides the bold, rich coffee base.

• Steamed Milk – Adds creaminess and balances flavors.

• Pumpkin Puree or Syrup – Brings in real pumpkin essence.

• Pumpkin Spice Blend – A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for warm, aromatic flavors.

• Sweetener – Enhances the taste, with options like sugar, honey, or maple syrup.

• Whipped Cream & Spices – Often used as a topping for an extra indulgent touch.

This drink is widely loved for its nostalgic, cozy flavors, making it one of the most popular seasonal drinks worldwide.

How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home

While you can always get a PSL from Starbucks or your local café, making it at home allows for customization and a healthier, budget-friendly option.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Ingredients:

•  1 shot espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)

•  1 cup whole milk (or oat milk for a dairy-free option)

•  2 tbsp pumpkin puree (unsweetened for a natural taste)

•  1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar (adjust to taste)

•  ½ tsp pumpkin spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)

•  1 tsp vanilla extract

•  Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

•  Brew the Espresso – Use an espresso machine, Moka pot, or French press. The stronger the coffee, the better it balances the sweetness.

•  Heat & Froth the Milk – Warm the milk over medium heat, then use a frother or whisk to create a creamy texture.

•  Mix Pumpkin & Spices – In a separate bowl, blend pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin spice mix.

•  Combine Ingredients – Stir the pumpkin mixture into the warm milk, then pour over the espresso.

•  Top & Serve – Add whipped cream and sprinkle extra pumpkin spice for the final touch.

Pro Tips for a Perfect PSL:

•  Use freshly ground specialty coffee beans for a smooth, well-balanced base.

•  Adjust the sweetness to your preference – honey, maple syrup, or sugar-free options work well.

•  Try Bazan Coffee’s Specialty Arabica – Cầu Đất for a full-bodied, rich flavor that complements the pumpkin spice.

Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

For those who love PSL but want a refreshing version, try an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte!

Ingredients:

•  1 shot espresso (or ½ cup strong coffee)

•  ¾ cup milk (whole, oat, or almond milk)

•  2 tbsp pumpkin puree

•  1 tbsp maple syrup (or your preferred sweetener)

•  ½ tsp pumpkin spice blend

•  Ice cubes

•  Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

•  Brew the Espresso – Let it cool to room temperature or chill it in the fridge.

•  Mix Pumpkin & Spices – Stir pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin spice blend in a glass.

•  Add Ice & Coffee – Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the cooled espresso over them.

•  Pour the Milk – Add cold milk, stir well, and top with whipped cream.

•  Enjoy! – Sprinkle some extra cinnamon or nutmeg for an authentic PSL experience.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Calories & How to Make It Healthier

A regular Pumpkin Spice Latte (Grande size, 16 oz) from Starbucks contains 380 calories. If you're looking for a healthier version, try these swaps:

•  Use skim milk or plant-based alternatives – Almond or oat milk reduces fat and calories.

•  Skip the whipped cream – This saves about 70 calories per drink.

•  Reduce sugar – Use unsweetened pumpkin puree and sugar-free sweeteners.

•  Make a smaller serving – A Short (8 oz) PSL has fewer calories than a Grande (16 oz).

FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Latte

1. When Does the Pumpkin Spice Latte Come Out?

The Pumpkin Spice Latte is typically released in late August or early September, marking the start of the fall season. Coffee chains like Starbucks, Dunkin’, and independent cafés launch their PSL menus around this time.

 Want PSL year-round? Make it at home! Using Bazan Coffee’s specialty beans lets you enjoy a homemade PSL anytime.

2. How Much Caffeine Is in a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

The caffeine content in a PSL depends on the amount of espresso used:

• For a stronger kick, add an extra shot of espresso.

•  For a milder taste, use half-caff or decaf espresso.

3. Can I Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Without Coffee?

Yes! You can make a Pumpkin Spice Steamer, which is a caffeine-free version using steamed milk, pumpkin puree, and spices—perfect for kids or those avoiding caffeine.

4. What’s the Best Coffee for a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

The best coffee for PSL should be medium-dark roasted with chocolate, caramel, and nutty notes.

Recommended: Bazan Coffee’s Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat – Its balanced acidity and full-bodied richness make it ideal for pumpkin spice lattes.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Ingredients Breakdown

How Much Caffeine is in a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

The caffeine content in a PSL depends on the number of espresso shots used:

Compared to regular brewed coffee (95mg per cup), a PSL has slightly less caffeine per serving due to the added milk and flavors.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Drawing: Fun Latte Art Ideas

Want to get creative? Try latte art inspired by pumpkins!

• Pumpkin stencil: Use a stencil and sprinkle pumpkin spice on top.

• Freehand latte art: Try pouring steamed milk into espresso and using a toothpick to draw designs.

• Pumpkin latte art pen: Use chocolate syrup or cinnamon to sketch a pumpkin shape.

Take Your Pumpkin Spice Latte to the Next Level with Bazan Coffee

You’re here because you love coffee - not just any coffee, but a perfectly spiced, rich Pumpkin Spice Latte that warms every sip. Whether you enjoy a classic PSL, an iced pumpkin spice latte, or a dairy-free alternative, the key to achieving a bold, flavorful, and well-balanced latte lies in choosing the right coffee beans.

The New Revolution: Fine Robusta from Vietnam

For decades, Robusta has been underestimated, but Vietnam’s Fine Robusta is changing the game. With high-altitude cultivation, advanced fermentation techniques, and meticulous processing, Fine Robusta now delivers sweet, complex, and refined flavors - making it an exceptional base for pumpkin spice lattes.

At the forefront of this revolution is Fine Robusta – Krong Nang. Grown in Krong Nang, Dak Lak, this Fine Robusta undergoes a 72-hour natural anaerobic fermentation, enhancing caramel, honey, and tropical fruit notes while reducing bitterness. Its bold, smooth espresso body complements the cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin flavors in a PSL, creating a perfectly balanced autumn-inspired coffee.

Not Just Robusta - The Best of Both Worlds

If you’re looking for a smooth, well-rounded espresso with fruity notes, caramel depth, and mild spice, Special Vietnam Blend is a great choice. This balanced combination of high-altitude Arabica and Fine Robusta brings chocolatey richness and silky texture, making it ideal for both hot and iced PSLs.

For those who appreciate a more refined, complex espresso, Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat is the perfect option. Grown at 1,550m in Cau Dat, Da Lat, this Arabica showcases bell pepper, spices, and caramel notes, offering a sophisticated depth that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice and steamed milk.

Which Coffee Fits Your Style?

• For a bold, rich espresso that enhances pumpkin spice flavors → Fine Robusta – Krong Nang

• For a smooth, well-balanced PSL with chocolate and caramel undertones → Special Vietnam Blend

• For a refined, spiced espresso with layered complexity → Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

Your perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte starts with the best espresso. Shop Bazan Coffee Now and experience Vietnam’s finest specialty coffee in every sip.