A Pumpkin Spice Latte, often abbreviated as PSL, is a popular seasonal coffee beverage that is typically available in the fall and early winter months, particularly in North America. It is known for its warm and cozy flavors, reminiscent of autumn spices and pumpkin. The drink is a combination of espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin spice-flavored syrup, and often topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice seasoning.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
1
servings20
minutes20
minutesThe pumpkin spice flavor profile typically includes a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, which are commonly associated with traditional pumpkin pie and other fall desserts. The Pumpkin Spice Latte has gained a significant following and has become a cultural phenomenon, often signaling the arrival of the autumn season for many people.
Starbucks, a well-known coffee chain, is often credited with popularizing the Pumpkin Spice Latte trend, as they introduced the beverage in 2003, and it quickly became a seasonal favorite. Since then, many other coffee shops and cafes have created their own versions of the drink to cater to the demand for this festive and flavorful beverage.
Ingredients
- For the Pumpkin Spice Syrup:
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger)
- For the Latte:
1 cup milk (any type you prefer: whole, 2%, almond, soy, etc.)
1-2 shots of espresso or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
1-2 tablespoons pumpkin spice syrup (adjust to taste)
Whipped cream (optional)
Additional pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Make the Pumpkin Spice Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine water and granulated sugar.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
- Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the mixture.
- Continue to heat and stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
- Remove from heat and let the syrup cool. You can strain it through a fine mesh sieve if you want a smoother syrup.
- Prepare the Latte:
- Brew your espresso shots or strong coffee.
- In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium heat. Be careful not to boil the milk; you just want it to be hot.
- Froth the hot milk using a milk frother or by vigorously whisking it.
- In a mug, combine the brewed espresso or coffee and the desired amount of pumpkin spice syrup. You can adjust the syrup quantity to your taste preference.
- Pour the frothed milk over the espresso and syrup mixture.
- Add Finishing Touches:
- If desired, top your latte with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top of the whipped cream for extra flavor and presentation.