Even though it’s still 88° in Miami, autumn is upon us, and nothing says fall quite like a delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Perhaps my perspective is skewed having grown up in the same state as Starbucks, but this time of year I get a hankering for the sweet, warm flavors of fall served up in a delicious cup of joe. I don’t, however, feel a burning need to drop $4 for the experience, especially since I have all the ingredients to make one at home. For about $4 I can make pumpkin spice lattes everyday for two or three weeks.
But wait, there’s more!
This is also a great recipe for kids sans the espresso. We call it Pumpkin Spice Moo and it even contains a bite of veggies all stirred into the yummy goodness. Max and Jack give it two thumbs up.
But wait, there’s more!
There’s a twist to make a very adult version to serve after dinner to your guests. It’s an elegant dessert coffee, perfect for an autumn menu.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
This recipe serves one. Adjust it for the number of people you are serving.
1 c milk
1 T pumpkin puree
1 T brown sugar
1/4 t pumpkin spice seasoning
1/8 t vanilla
2-3 T espresso (make your own, purchase at a coffee bar or substitute with double strength regular coffee)
optional whipped cream
1. In a small saucepan heat the milk over a medium flame. Add the pumpkin, sugar, spices and vanilla. Use a whisk to gently stir as you bring it to just under a boil. Taste and adjust to your pallet.
2. Pour espresso into the bottom of a cup. Pour steamy hot milk mixture over it. Give it a gently swirl with a spoon. Dollop whipped cream over the coffee and sprinkle with either nutmeg or cinnamon as a garnish. Enjoy!
Pumpkin Spice Moo
Follow the same directions as above, but leave out the coffee. Again, whipped cream is optional, but kids love it!
Pumpkin Spice Dessert Coffee
This is the same as Pumpkin Spice Latte, but these are served in demitasse cups, so budget half a serving per person.
1 ounce Kahlua or other coffee liquor
splash of Grand Marnier or Cointreau
1. Follow the recipe for Pumpkin Spice Latte
2. Add an ounce of Kahlua to the espresso and stir until combined. Pour the spiced milk over the coffee mixture.
3. Add a few drops of Grand Marnier to the whipped cream. Float spiked whipped cream on top of the latte. Enjoy!
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