There is something truly magical about the Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe that perfectly captures the essence of cozy autumn days in a refreshing chilled drink. This delightful latte combines the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with the invigorating punch of espresso, all beautifully balanced by creamy milk and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice fanatic or simply seeking a seasonal treat, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of comforting spices and icy refreshment that feels like a hug in a glass.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly to create the signature flavor and texture of a classic iced pumpkin spice latte. Each component plays a crucial role in layering that warming spice profile with creamy smoothness and energizing espresso boldness.
- Pumpkin spice sauce: The heart of the flavor; a sweet and spiced pumpkin concentrate that makes the latte unmistakably autumnal.
- Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle depth that elevates the overall taste.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A pinch intensifies the warm spices for that authentic fall feeling.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Espresso: Provides a rich coffee base with a robust, energizing kick.
- Ice: Keeps the drink refreshingly cold, perfect for warm fall afternoons.
- Milk (any kind): Adds creaminess and smooth texture, customizable to your preference.
- Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam or whipped cream: A luscious, creamy topper that completes the experience with extra flavor and indulgence.
How to Make Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Sauce
Start by making your pumpkin spice sauce at least 20 minutes ahead of time. This step is key because it allows the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully. Homemade or store-bought, the sauce is what gives this latte its signature fall taste.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In your favorite glass, add 3 tablespoons of pumpkin spice sauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, â…› teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything to blend the spices and sweetness evenly, creating a flavorful foundation that will soon be brought to life by espresso.
Step 3: Brew and Mix with Espresso
Pour 2 ounces of freshly brewed espresso over the pumpkin mixture in your glass. Stir vigorously with a spoon or use a hand frother to fully incorporate the dry pumpkin pie spice and ensure that every sip bursts with spice-laced coffee goodness.
Step 4: Add Ice and Milk
Fill a 20 to 24-ounce cup with ice, then pour the espresso-pumpkin blend over it. Top with 8 ounces of your chosen milk to add a silky, creamy texture that balances the bold mocha and spicy qualities.
Step 5: Top with Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam
Finish your iced pumpkin spice latte by crafting a batch of Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam, or simply use whipped cream if you prefer. Generously spoon this frothy, flavorful topping over the drink, turning it into a visually appealing and irresistible treat.
How to Serve Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving experience with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top of the cold foam. A light dusting not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of aromatic spice that will make the first sip even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair your Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe with classic fall treats like ginger snaps, buttery cinnamon cookies, or even a slice of spiced pumpkin bread. These little bites complement the latte’s flavors perfectly and turn your break into a cozy seasonal celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in a clear glass to showcase the swirls of deep espresso blending into creamy milk, topped with fluffy cold foam. Add a rustic cinnamon stick as a stirrer or a small edible flower for a whimsical touch. Presentation makes every sip feel like the most special moment of your day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover pumpkin spice sauce or cold foam, keep it refrigerated in airtight containers. The sauce should stay fresh for up to a week, making it easy to whip up another latte without extra prep.
Freezing
While freezing your prepared latte is not recommended because ice will dilute the flavor and texture, you can freeze extra pumpkin spice sauce in an ice cube tray. Then simply thaw a cube whenever you want to enjoy the Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe again.
Reheating
This iced drink is best served cold, so reheating isn’t ideal. If you prefer it warm, brew fresh espresso and gently warm the milk with pumpkin spice sauce instead of trying to heat leftovers, preserving the luscious flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?
Absolutely! While espresso offers a richer, more concentrated flavor, strong brewed coffee works well too. Just use less water to keep the coffee intense enough to hold up against the sweet pumpkin flavors.
Is there a dairy-free option for the milk?
Yes, you can use any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk. Each type will add its own unique creaminess and subtly alter the flavor, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite combo.
Can I make the pumpkin spice sauce from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade pumpkin spice sauce often includes pumpkin puree, sugar, and warm spices. Making it yourself gives you control over sweetness and spice level, making the latte even more personalized.
How long does the Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe stay fresh?
Once prepared, it’s best enjoyed immediately while the ice is cold and the foam fresh. If stored in the fridge, flavor and texture begin to change within a day or two, so it’s a treat best savored right away.
Can I skip the cold foam topping?
Of course! The latte is delicious on its own. The cold foam or whipped cream just adds a creamy, festive touch to the drink, but feel free to customize based on your mood or dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like sipping on a perfectly balanced Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe to feel instantly wrapped in fall’s warmth, even on a humid day. This recipe is a delightful way to bring the season’s magic to your kitchen with familiar flavors and an icy twist. Go ahead and give it a try — once you taste this blend of creamy pumpkin spice and fresh espresso, it will surely become one of your seasonal favorites!
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Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 drink
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte is a delicious Starbucks copycat recipe that combines rich espresso with a flavorful pumpkin spice sauce, maple syrup, and warm spices, topped with creamy pumpkin spice cold foam. Perfect for cozy fall days, this refreshing iced latte is easy to make at home and customizable with your choice of milk.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Spice Latte
- 3 tablespoons pumpkin spice sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- â…› teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 ounces espresso
- Ice (as needed)
- 8 ounces milk (of choice, 240 mL)
Topping
- 1 batch Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam (or whipped cream)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Sauce: Make the pumpkin spice sauce at least 20 minutes before assembling the latte to allow the flavors to meld well.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a glass, combine 3 tablespoons of pumpkin spice sauce, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, â…› teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to blend all the flavors together.
- Add Espresso: Brew 2 ounces of espresso directly over the pumpkin mixture. Use a spoon or a hand frother to mix thoroughly until the dry spices are fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Latte: Pour the espresso mixture into a 20 to 24-ounce cup filled with ice. Top the drink with 8 ounces of your preferred milk.
- Top with Cold Foam: Prepare one batch of Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam or use whipped cream, and generously top your iced latte for a creamy and festive finish.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk such as oat or almond milk and ensure the cold foam is made with vegan ingredients.
- Pumpkin spice sauce can be prepared in advance and stored refrigerated for quick assembly.
- If you don’t have a hand frother, a spoon works fine to mix espresso and spices.
- Use fresh espresso for best flavor, but strong brewed coffee can be a substitute.
