Print

Easy Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: Best Starbucks Copycat

iced pumpkin spice latte - featured image

This easy iced pumpkin spice latte tastes exactly like Starbucks but uses real ingredients and takes just 5 minutes of active prep. It’s the perfect fall drink that’s quicker, simpler, and more affordable than the drive-thru version.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk, oat milk, or almond milk)
  • 2 shots espresso (about 2 ounces, or 1/2 cup strongly brewed coffee)
  • Ice cubes
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Extra pumpkin pie spice (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the pumpkin spice syrup: In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, whisking occasionally, until slightly thickened and pumpkin is fully incorporated. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool for about 5 minutes.
  2. Strain the syrup (optional but recommended): Pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a heat-safe jar or bowl to remove any pumpkin bits. Syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.
  3. Brew your espresso or coffee: While syrup cools, brew 2 shots of espresso or 1/2 cup of very strong coffee. Let cool for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Prepare your glass: Fill a 16-ounce glass completely with ice cubes.
  5. Combine the ingredients: Pour 2-3 tablespoons of pumpkin spice syrup over the ice. Add cooled espresso or coffee and stir.
  6. Add the milk: Pour milk over the coffee mixture. For a layered look, pour slowly over the back of a spoon held just above the ice. Stir gently if desired.
  7. Top with whipped cream and garnish: Add a generous swirl of whipped cream and dust with pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon. Optionally drizzle a little pumpkin syrup over the top.
  8. Serve immediately: Stir before drinking to distribute flavors evenly.

Notes

The syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. For a dairy-free version, use oat milk. For a hot version, skip the ice and warm the milk. Do not use pumpkin pie filling; use 100% pure pumpkin puree. Let coffee cool before adding to ice to avoid a watery drink.

Nutrition

Keywords: iced pumpkin spice latte, Starbucks copycat, pumpkin spice, fall coffee, easy latte recipe, homemade pumpkin spice latte