Copycat Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

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It’s officially pumpkin spice season, and what better way to embrace the fall vibes than with a homemade version of Dunkin’s Pumpkin Spice Latte? If you’re anything like me, the scent of pumpkin spice instantly takes you to crisp mornings, cozy sweaters, and colorful autumn strolls.

What Is a Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte is a fall-inspired take on the classic latte, featuring a blend of espresso or strong brewed coffee, steamed milk, and pumpkin and spice flavors.

Ingredients:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup of milk (regular, almond, oat, or your preferred milk substitute)
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/3 cup of strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine)
• 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling – look for pure pumpkin puree!)
• 1–2 tablespoons of sugar or sweetener (adjust to taste; you can also use maple syrup for a natural sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (store-bought or mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
• A drizzle of caramel syrup.

Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan, gently heat your milk over medium-low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Alternatively, you can warm it in a microwave.
2. Mix the Pumpkin Base: Whisk the pumpkin puree, sugar (or sweetener), vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice into the warmed milk until the ingredients are fully combined. Heat for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help the flavors infuse beautifully into your base.
3. Brew the Coffee/Espresso: While your milk mixture is heating, brew a fresh shot of espresso or a strong cup of coffee. The better your coffee base, the better your latte will taste, so use high-quality coffee if possible.
4. Combine the Base and Coffee: Pour your espresso or brewed coffee into a large mug. Slowly add in the milk and pumpkin mixture, stirring gently.
5. Add Toppings: To make the latte extra indulgent (just like Dunkin would!), top it with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, and a drizzle of caramel syrup.
6. Sip and Enjoy: Curl up with your steaming mug and soak in all the autumn feels.

Pro Tips For The Perfect Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte:

• Use Fresh Spices for Maximum Flavor: If you haven’t used your pumpkin pie spice in a while, it might have lost some of its boldness. Consider buying fresh spices or making your blend to ensure your latte has a punchy, aromatic flavor.
• Froth Your Milk for Café Vibes: Want your drink to feel like it came from a coffeehouse? Use a milk frothier or handheld whisk to froth your milk before adding it to the coffee. This will give your latte that creamy, airy texture Dunkin’ is known for.
• Make a Big Batch of Pumpkin Base Ahead of Time: If you’re a PSL fanatic, save time by creating a batch of the pumpkin milk base (pumpkin puree, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla) in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and just add to warm milk whenever you want to whip up a latte.
• Experiment with Sweeteners: While sugar works perfectly, you can experiment with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar, maple syrup, or even a dash of honey for unique flavor twists.
• Go Decaf for a Nighttime Treat: Love the cozy flavor but don’t want the caffeine buzz? Use decaf espresso or coffee to enjoy your latte any time of day without disrupting your sleep.

What To Serve Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte With

Classic Breakfast Pairings:

• Pumpkin Muffins or Scones: Lean into the fall-inspired theme by pairing your Dunkin’ pumpkin spice latte with a warm pumpkin muffin or scone. The double dose of pumpkin makes this combo irresistible. Plus, you can add a smear of cinnamon butter for extra decadence.
• Cinnamon Rolls: The gooey, cinnamony goodness of a warm cinnamon roll matches perfectly with the spices in the Dunkin’ pumpkin spice latte.
• Toasted Bagel and Schmear: Go for a classic plain or pumpkin bagel with a spread of cream cheese. If you want to dress it up, try a honey walnut cream cheese or a swipe of apple butter for extra seasonal flair.

French Toast Or Pancakes:

• Pumpkin or Apple Pie: A wedge of pumpkin pie (or even apple pie) with a flaky crust alongside your Dunkin’ pumpkin spice latte feels like the ultimate autumn indulgence. This pairing is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser during fall gatherings.
• Shortbread Cookies: A pile of buttery shortbread cookies adds a delightful crunch and creaminess to balance out the latte’s spiced complexity. Bonus: they are perfect for dunking!
• Maple Pecan Bars: The nutty, caramel-like flavor of a maple pecan bar harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin spice and espresso in your Dunkin’ pumpkin spice latte.
• Chocolate Anything: If you’re a chocoholic, pair your PSL with brownies, chocolate muffins, or even chocolate-drizzled biscotti. The pairing of rich chocolate with pumpkin spice is understated but divine.

Savory Options:

• Avocado Toast with Toasted Seeds: The creamy, savory flavors of avocado toast, topped with a sprinkle of pumpkin or sesame seeds, create a nice counterpoint to the warm spices in the latte.
• Cheese and Crackers: A simple cheese platter featuring aged cheddar, gouda, or a creamy brie, alongside a handful of crackers, can be a surprisingly elegant pairing with PSL’s spiced coffee notes.
• Savory Scones: Herb-infused scones, such as rosemary or cheddar chive, make a unique and tasty companion to balance your latte’s sweet and creamy profile.

Lighter Options:

• Yogurt Parfaits with Granola and Fruit: Layer Greek yogurt with homemade granola, a drizzle of honey, and fresh apples or pears. The tang of yogurt and natural sweetness of the fruit pair beautifully with the spices in the latte.
• Mini Energy Balls: Make no-bake energy bites with oats, almond butter, dates, and a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. These small snacks give just the right amount of sweetness without being too heavy.
• Sliced Apples with Almond Butter: Crisp apple slices dipped in almond butter or sunflower seed butter provide a nutritious but flavorful complement to your Dunkin’ pumpkin spice latte.

Seasonal Snacks:

• Caramel Popcorn: The sweet, buttery crunch of caramel popcorn amplifies the caramel and spice notes of the latte, perfect for movie nights or a cozy afternoon indoors.
• Roasted Nuts: A handful of warm candied pecans or spiced almonds can bring an earthy, crunchy pairing to your drink.
• Seasonal Breads: Think banana bread, zucchini bread, or (of course) pumpkin bread. Serve with a smear of butter or cream cheese to take it up a notch.

Substitute Ingredients:

Milk Alternatives:

• Oat Milk: Oat milk provides a creamy texture similar to whole milk and has a neutral flavor that doesn’t overpower the spices.
• Almond Milk: Almond milk is lighter and has a subtle nutty flavor, which can add an extra layer of taste to your latte.
• Coconut Milk: Coconut milk brings a hint of tropical flavor and richness, perfect for those who enjoy a slightly exotic twist.
• Soy Milk: Soy milk’s protein content offers a creamy consistency that’s closer to regular milk and also froths well.

Coffee Or Espresso Alternatives:

• Decaffeinated Coffee: To enjoy a PSL at any time of day without the caffeine jitters.
• Instant Coffee: Quick and easy, with no brewing required.
• Cold Brew Concentrate: For a smooth, less acidic coffee experience.
• Chicory or Other Herbal Coffee Alternatives: To entirely steer clear of caffeine while still enjoying a coffee-like flavor.

Pumpkin Puree Alternatives:

• Homemade Pumpkin Puree: Fresh and homemade guarantees no added preservatives.
• Butternut Squash Puree: Similar texture and sweetness, offering a subtle flavor variation.
• Carrot Puree: For a vibrant color and sweetness similar to pumpkin.

Sweetener Alternatives:

• Maple Syrup: Pairs perfectly with fall flavors and adds a natural sweetness.
• Honey: Adds a warm, floral sweetness with a bit more complexity than sugar.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: Great for low-calorie, sugar-free sweetness without the glycemic impact.
• Agave Nectar: Provides a similar sweetness to honey but with a milder flavor.

Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend Alternatives:

• DIY Pumpkin Spice: Customize your spice blend for a fresher or more tailored taste.
• Separate Spices: Use individual spices like only cinnamon and nutmeg for a subtle hint, or experiment with cardamom for an exotic twist.

Vanilla Extract Alternative:

• Vanilla Bean Paste: Provides a richer vanilla flavor with little specks visible in your latte.

Health Benefits Of Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spice Latte

Pumpkin Puree:

• Rich in Vitamins: Pumpkin is an excellent source of Vitamin A, which supports healthy vision, immune function, and skin health.
• High in Antioxidants: Pumpkin contains beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and protect your cells from damage.
• Supports Digestion: Due to its high fiber content, pumpkin contributes to better digestion and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Boosts Immunity: With its Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and minerals like iron and folate, pumpkin helps strengthen your immune system.

Warm Spices:

Cinnamon:

• Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Contains anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rich in antioxidants that promote heart health.

Nutmeg:

• Aids digestion and soothes an upset stomach.
• Has calming properties that can reduce stress and improve sleep when consumed in moderation.

Ginger:

• Supports digestion and reduces bloating.
• Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, which helps alleviate pain and discomfort.

Cloves:

• Packed with antioxidants, which can promote cellular health.
• Known for their antibacterial properties, which potentially help with oral health and immunity.

Coffee:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Coffee offers powerful antioxidants like chlorogenic acid, which help protect your body from free radical damage and support your overall health.
• Boosts Alertness and Focus: Caffeine in coffee improves cognitive performance, mental alertness, and concentration.
• Supports Heart Health: Moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.
• May Enhance Longevity: Studies suggest that regular coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of chronic illnesses, such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and type 2 diabetes.

Milk:

• Calcium for Strong Bones: Milk is a rich source of calcium and Vitamin D, vital for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
• Protein-Packed: Regular milk provides high-quality protein, helpful for muscle repair and growth.
• Supports Metabolism: With its combination of macronutrients (protein, carbs, fats), milk is a great metabolic booster.

Natural Sweeteners:

• Maple Syrup: Contains trace amounts of zinc and manganese, which are great for immune health and cellular repair.
• Honey: Packed with antioxidants and known for its antibacterial properties, honey can help soothe sore throats and boost immunity.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener: Zero-calorie alternatives that won’t spike blood sugar, making them great for those managing diabetes.

Antioxidant And Hormonal Boost With Vanilla And Other Extracts:

• Contains Antioxidants: While not a significant source, vanilla does contain antioxidants to combat oxidative stress.
• May Uplift Mood: Some evidence suggests that the scent and flavor of vanilla act as a natural mood enhancer, with calming and stress-relief effects.

Final Thoughts

From the immune-boosting properties of pumpkin puree to the anti-inflammatory magic of warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, every sip of this cozy latte can nourish your body as well as your soul. And when you customize the recipe with nutrient-dense milk alternatives, natural sweeteners, and antioxidant-rich extracts, you can turn your PSL into a truly wholesome treat.

More Latte Recipes:

• Copycat Dutch Bros Mudslide Mocha Recipe
• Copycat Dutch Bros Strawberry Colada Recipe
• Copycat Starbucks Raisin Con Crema Espresso Recipe