If you love a coffee shop PSL and want to learn how to make your very own Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte, you are in the right place. This recipe boasts all of the flavor of a traditional pumpkin spice latte without any of the dairy. Let's learn how to make it!
Nothing tops a pumpkin spice latte on a cold, fall/winter morning. This vegan version is made with instant espresso powder and real pumpkin. You won't find that at Starbucks!
If you're looking for more dairy-free Beverages be sure to check out the others we have here on our site.
Want more holiday-themed beverages? No problem! Try our Pumpkin Spice Martini, Homemade Apple Cider, or our Peppermint Hot Chocolate.
Vegan pumpkin spice latte ingredients:
Here's a breakdown of each ingredient included in our PSL:
- 1 ½ cups nondairy milk: Provides a creamy base for the latte while keeping it vegan. Options like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk add richness and a smooth texture.
- ½ cup water: Helps to thin the mixture slightly, ensuring the latte isn't overly thick or heavy.
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree: Adds authentic pumpkin flavor and a velvety texture while making the drink true to its pumpkin spice theme.
- 3 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens the latte, balancing the flavors of the spices and coffee. You can adjust to taste or substitute with other sweeteners.
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder: Provides the coffee element essential for a latte, giving it the characteristic bold flavor and slight bitterness.
- spices: Contributes to the warmth, nuttiness and sweetness of the coffee's flavor profile.
- Pinch sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth, tying together the other flavors.
Why you'll love this latte:
- Rich and Creamy: The nondairy milk and pumpkin puree create a luscious, velvety texture that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
- Warm and Cozy Flavors: The perfect blend of spices-cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves-delivers the comforting, autumn-inspired taste you crave.
- Customizable Sweetness: You can easily adjust the sugar or substitute it with your favorite sweetener to match your taste preferences.
- Caffeine Boost: The espresso powder provides just the right kick of energy to jump-start your day or keep you going through a cozy afternoon.
- Dairy-Free and Vegan: Made entirely with plant-based ingredients, it's ideal for those who are vegan or lactose-intolerant.
- Authentic Pumpkin Flavor: Unlike many commercial lattes, this recipe includes real pumpkin puree, giving it a natural taste and added nutrients.
- Simple and Affordable: Skip the coffee shop and make this delicious drink at home with easy-to-find, budget-friendly ingredients.
How to make a pumpkin spice latte (with pictures!)
Please see the recipe card at the bottom of the page for full instructions and ingredient measurements.
Combine all latte ingredients (except the vanilla) in a small saucepan and place on the stop. Heat over medium-low until simmering, whisk occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
Prepare the whipped cream by adding the heavy cream, powdered sugar and vanilla extract to a large bowl. Beat with an electric hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Cover and chill until ready to serve.
Plop or pipe the whipped cream onto a slightly cooled latte. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
Can you get a vegan pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks?
Yes, you can get a vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) at Starbucks, but you'll need to make a few modifications since the standard version contains dairy. Here's how:
- Check the Pumpkin Sauce: Unfortunately, Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Sauce contains dairy, so the latte won't be fully vegan if the sauce is used. To mimic the flavor, you can opt for a combination of pumpkin spice topping (which is vegan-friendly) and a sweetener like vanilla or brown sugar syrup.
- Choose a Plant-Based Milk: Request a nondairy milk option like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk.
- Skip the Whipped Cream: The standard whipped cream is made with dairy, so ask for no whip.
While it's possible to get a dairy-free pumpkin spice latte at Starbuck's, it's much more fun to make your own. Follow the recipe below to save money and enjoy a latte with REAL pumpkin flavor!
Tips for making a homemade pumpkin spice latte:
Here are some tips for making the perfect vegan pumpkin spice latte at home:
- Use high-quality plant-based milk: Choose a plant-based milk that you enjoy the taste of, as it will greatly influence the overall flavor of your latte. Some popular options include almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk.
- Use real pumpkin puree: When possible, use real, canned pumpkin puree without any added sugars or additives. It enhances the authentic pumpkin flavor. Do NOT use pumpkin pie mix!
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking. While the classic pumpkin pie spice blend includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, you can add or reduce any of these spices based on your taste preferences.
- Froth the milk: For a more luxurious and cafe-like experience, froth the plant-based milk using a milk frother or an immersion blender. This will give your latte a creamy texture.
- Garnish creatively: Top your latte with vegan whipped cream or foam and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. You can even add some vegan chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
- Control the sweetness: Taste your latte as you go and adjust the sweetness as needed. Some people prefer a sweeter drink, while others prefer a more subtle sweetness.
Frequently asked questions:
The best alternative milk for a pumpkin spice latte largely depends on personal preference. What's more, different plant-based milks have unique flavors and textures that can complement the pumpkin spice flavor profile in various ways.
Yes! Roast or steam fresh pumpkin, then blend it until smooth. You may need to strain it to ensure a creamy texture. Keep in mind that fresh pumpkin might have a slightly different flavor and consistency compared to canned.
Absolutely! You can use decaffeinated coffee or espresso to make it decaf. Alternatively, you can use herbal coffee substitutes or simply skip the coffee altogether.
You can substitute sugar with maple syrup, agave, coconut sugar, or a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia. Adjust the amount to suit your desired sweetness.
Mix the spices with the pumpkin puree and sugar before adding them to the liquid, or whisk the spices directly into the hot nondairy milk for even distribution.
Cool the latte and combine it with ice. Blend for a frappé-like texture or stir well for a smooth iced drink.
Serving:
Here are a few serving pumpkin spice latte serving ideas:
- Warm or cold: This latte can be served hot or iced. Prepare to your preference.
- Sprinkle with spices: Dust the whipped cream or the top of your latte with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice. This not only adds flavor but also makes the latte look more appealing.
- Add a drizzle: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a little maple syrup or vegan caramel sauce on top of the whipped cream.
- Use a cinnamon stick: Place a cinnamon stick in the latte as a stirrer. It not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a lovely presentation.
- Serve with a dessert: Pair your homemade vegan pumpkin spice latte with a delicious vegan pumpkin spice cookie, muffin, or any other autumn-inspired treat.
The presentation of a homemade latte can make it feel like you're enjoying a café-quality beverage right at home.
Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!
PrintVegan Pumpkin Spice Latte
All of the festiveness of a traditional PSL from Starbucks with NONE of the dairy. Your friends will never be able to tell the difference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 Lattes 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
For the Latte
1 ½ cups nondairy milk
½ cup water
¾ cup pumpkin puree
3 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ginger
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
pinch allspice
pinch cloves
pinch sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Nondairy Whipped Cream
½ cup nondairy heavy cream*
2-4 tablespoons powdered sugar (depending on how sweet you like it)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Latte: Combine all ingredients, except the vanilla, in a small saucepan on the stove and cook over medium-low heat until simmering. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Whisk occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: Add heavy cream, powdered sugar and vanilla to a large bowl. Beat with an electric hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Cover and chill until ready to use.
- Garnish and Serve: Once latte is ready, split it between two mugs. Top with nondairy whipped cream if desired.
Notes
*Nondairy heavy cream can be found at most grocery stores and is a great replacement for traditional heavy cream. Be sure to use unsweetened. Do not purchase coffee creamer.
