Homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup (Better Than Starbucks!)

When fall rolls around, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, creamy pumpkin spice latte — especially one made from scratch. This homemade pumpkin spice syrup is rich, smooth, and perfectly spiced, made with real pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and vanilla.

Unlike store-bought syrups, this version is made with real ingredients (no artificial flavorings) and takes less than 15 minutes to make. Stir a couple of spoonfuls into your morning coffee or drizzle it over pancakes, oatmeal, or ice cream for an instant taste of fall.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup pumpkin puree

• 1 cup water

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1–2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (optional, for stronger flavor)

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients:
   In a small saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, water, and (if using) pumpkin pie spice.

2. Simmer:
   Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, whisking occasionally, until slightly thickened and smooth.

3. Add vanilla:
   Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Strain:
   Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any pulp. This gives you a smooth, coffeehouse-style syrup.

5. Store:
   Transfer to a glass jar or bottle. Keep refrigerated for up to 10 days. Shake before using.

How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte

• Brew a cup of your favorite coffee (or espresso).

• Stir in 2 tablespoons of pumpkin spice syrup.

• Add a dash of heavy cream or milk.

• Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

✨ Barista tip: For extra froth, blend or steam your milk before adding it — it’ll taste just like a coffee shop latte!

Tips & Variations

• Sweeter syrup: Add up to 1 cup of brown sugar for a Starbucks-level sweetness.

• Sugar-free: Swap sugar for a natural sweetener like maple syrup or monk fruit.

• Thicker texture: Simmer an extra 5 minutes for a sauce consistency — perfect for drizzling on desserts.

Why Make It at Home?

A single bottle of pumpkin spice syrup from a coffee chain can cost $10–15 — but you can make your own for under $2 with pantry staples. Plus, you’ll know exactly what’s in it.

Serving Ideas

• Stir into coffee or chai tea

• Drizzle over pancakes or waffles

• Mix into oatmeal or yogurt

• Swirl over vanilla ice cream

Once you make this cozy pumpkin spice syrup, you’ll never need to buy one again.
Make it a fall staple in your kitchen — it’s the quickest way to turn any drink or dessert into a pumpkin-spiced treat.