How to make a pumpkin latte

Pumpkin-flavored everything season is upon us! One of the season's most iconic treats is the pumpkin latte. Coffee shops big and small have their own versions of this fall favorite, and I'd guess that almost none of them use actual pumpkin in their drink. Pumpkin-flavored syrup is used instead. This season, why not make your own pumpkin latte at home and save a little money? Making it at home also lets you customize your drink! No mystery ingredients to deal with.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree (either canned or homemade)

• 6 oz milk of choice (whole milk, coconut milk, almond milk, etc.)

• 1-3 tablespoons of sweetener of choice, as desired (granulated sugar, coconut sugar, maple syrup, honey)

• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice blend

• 2 shots of brewed espresso or** 1/4 cup (2 oz.) of** strongly brewed coffee

• Optional: whipped cream

How to Make:

1. Make your espresso or brew a strong batch of coffee.

2. Pour the hot espresso or coffee into a large mug.

3. Heat the milk on the stove in a saucepan, making sure not to overheat and scald the milk.

4. Add the pumpkin puree and stir to incorporate.

5. Add your sweetener to the milk and pumpkin.

6. Add the vanilla extract.

7. Add the pumpkin pie spice blend to the saucepan.

8. Take the saucepan off the heat and froth the milk with a frother. (If you don't have a milk frother, you can put the milk in a jar with a lid and shake until frothy.)

9. Pour the frothed milk into your mug on top of the coffee.

10. For optional extra yumminess: Top with whipped cream and a dash of pumpkin spice.

Want to learn how to make your own pumpkin puree? Check out this post!