This vegan-friendly pumpkin spice latte is made with spiced, lightly sweetened REAL pumpkin, steamed milk (or coconut milk), and espresso.

Originally published September 3, 2016. Photos updated June 12, 2018.

pumpkin spice latte (psl) with pumpkin puree

Does anything scream "Fall!" more than the Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Well, yes, probably.

The mornings get chillier, the leaves start to turn, and we all start scrambling to remember where we stored warm clothes.

Pumpkins and other squash begin proudly flaunting their brightly colored skins, daring us to take them home and devour them.

And of course, we do.

The other (unofficial) fall kickoff is when Starbucks begins selling its Pumpkin Spice Latte.

At $5-$6 a cup, however, it's a pricey habit to maintain.

Instead, try this recipe for a pumpkin spice latte with REAL pumpkin. And then check out my other favorite pumpkin drinks: pumpkin spice chai latte and pumpkin spice hot chocolate!

Making this latte is quick.

The most time-consuming, 10-minute part of the recipe can be completed ahead of time, so you don't need to wake up any earlier to enjoy pumpkin deliciousness at home before starting your day.

Actually, it's probably faster than waiting in line at the coffee shop!

This recipe uses a pumpkin spice purée to flavor the espresso. If you prefer a syrup (for a drink closer to what you'd buy in a coffee shop), swap the purée for pumpkin spice simple syrup.

What If I Don't Have an Espresso Machine?

Technically, this drink is made with espresso. If you prefer (or don't have a way to make espresso), swap the espresso for some dark black coffee.

Don’t have an espresso maker? Try using a French Press or check out our picks for the best small espresso makers.

Are You Shopping For an Espresso Maker?

Here's my favorite compact espresso maker: The extra compact Delonghi Dedica.

And because I'm spoiled, I also use a Nespresso when I want my coffee to be extra easy.

What Kind of Coffee Should I Use For a Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Stick to a dark roast, and if you're using an espresso maker, it should be finely ground. In our kitchen, we use a dark roast from Peet's coffee.

How Do I Make the Frothed Milk?

If you have an espresso maker with a milk frothing attachment, use that.

Otherwise, you can heat the milk, and skip the frothing, or use a handheld milk frother or an electric milk frother.

Another wonderful drink to make once you've got an espresso machine and milk frother is the honey cinnamon latte!

Making a Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home

First, heat the pumpkin, spices, and milk (or coconut milk) in a small saucepan. Sweeten to taste with sugar, and set aside.

Next, add a little of the pumpkin mixture to a coffee cup with some espresso, and mix it up! Top it all off with a little steamed milk, and you're good to go.

Enjoy your homemade latte, and go spend the $6 you just saved on those flashy, mouth-wateringly bright fall squash at the market.

Try swapping homemade pumpkin purée for canned! Make this Instant Pot Pumpkin Purée or use your oven for Roasted Pumpkin Purée!

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