Homemade Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte: Your Ultimate Guide to Fall’s Favorite Beverage
There’s a magical feeling that arrives with the crisp air of autumn, the changing leaves, and the promise of cozy evenings. For many, that feeling is perfectly encapsulated in a warm, fragrant mug of Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL). While the siren song of coffee shop PSLs is strong, imagine creating that beloved beverage right in your own kitchen – for a fraction of the cost and with all the rich, authentic flavor you crave. This easy and simple Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe empowers you to do just that, bringing the essence of fall into your home with unparalleled convenience. Say goodbye to long drive-thru lines and hello to the ultimate homemade treat. Get ready to experience intense pumpkin spice goodness that will make every autumn morning feel like a special occasion.
Life has a funny way of shifting priorities. Around four years ago, my husband’s career led us to embrace a quieter, country life, an hour’s drive from the bustling city. While I’ve cherished the peace and tranquility of rural living, there was one urban indulgence I genuinely missed: my beloved Starbucks. Back in my city-dwelling days, a trip to my favorite coffee shop for a special seasonal drink was a ritual, often happening several times a week. I even had their gold card – a true testament to my commitment, and perhaps, a slight detriment to my wallet! 😉
Those seasonal lattes, though undeniably pricey, were more than just a drink; they were an experience. For me, coffee has always been about moments of calm, peace, and the pure enjoyment of that awesome aroma. When you blend that with the comforting flavors of autumn, or something deliciously sweet like a White Chocolate Mocha, I was more than happy to part with my cash.
Recreating the Coffee Shop Experience at Home
Now, with Starbucks being a rare, distant treat, my last visit over two years ago was quite an eye-opener. To my surprise, the magic wasn’t quite as potent as I remembered. This realization sparked a challenge: why not recreate that cherished flavor at home? And what better kitchen companion for this endeavor than my versatile Instant Pot?
The journey to perfecting my homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte was surprisingly simple, and the results? Absolutely wonderful! The rich, spicy, and perfectly sweet flavor transported me right back to those cozy coffee shop moments, but this time, from the comfort of my own kitchen. Now that I can whip up this quintessential fall favorite anytime I desire, I jokingly tell my family I may never need to leave the house again – well, except for those essential Costco runs, of course! 😋
Essential Ingredients for Your Instant Pot PSL
Crafting the perfect homemade pumpkin spice latte begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that rich, comforting flavor we all adore. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Milk: For the creamiest and most luxurious texture, whole milk is highly recommended. Its fat content provides a beautiful body that truly elevates the latte experience. However, don’t hesitate to customize! You can absolutely make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have readily available. Explore alternative options like almond, cashew, or even heavy cream, which we’ll discuss further in the “Substitutions” section of this post.
- Pumpkin Puree: This is where the authentic pumpkin flavor comes from, but it’s crucial to grab the right can! Always ensure you purchase 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling comes pre-spiced and sweetened, which would throw off the balance of this recipe. Look for cans that list only “pumpkin” in the ingredients.
- Strong Coffee: A robust coffee base is key to standing up to the bold pumpkin and spice flavors. You’ll need 1 cup of freshly brewed, strong coffee. To achieve this, consider using a finer grind for your coffee beans or increasing your coffee-to-water ratio slightly. Drip-style or French Press coffee often yields the best results for this recipe, as standard coffee pods might not provide the intensity needed for a truly satisfying latte.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: This aromatic blend is the heart of your pumpkin spice latte, providing that iconic fall warmth. You’ll need 1 ½ teaspoons. If your spice cabinet is missing this essential, or if you prefer to mix your own, don’t fret! We’ve included a simple and effective homemade pumpkin pie spice blend substitute in the FAQ section and the recipe card.
- Sugar: Sweetness is a personal preference, and this recipe allows for flexibility. We suggest using anywhere from 4 to 8 tablespoons of white granulated sugar. The base recipe calls for 6 tablespoons, offering a balanced sweetness. If you, like me, enjoy an ultra-sweet treat, lean towards 8 tablespoons for 4 servings. Feel free to adjust to your taste!
- Vanilla Extract: You might be surprised by the generous amount – 2 full tablespoons – but trust us on this one! High-quality vanilla extract is a game-changer here. It doesn’t just add sweetness; it deepens the overall flavor profile, adding a warm, authentic richness that truly brings out the best in the pumpkin and spices, creating that unmistakable coffee shop quality.
Step-by-Step: Making Your Pumpkin Spice Latte in the Instant Pot
The Instant Pot makes preparing this delightful fall beverage incredibly simple, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Follow these straightforward steps to brew your perfect homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte:
Prepare the Base: Begin by adding the specified amounts of milk, pumpkin puree, sugar (adjusting to your preferred sweetness), and pumpkin pie spice directly into the inner pot of your 6 or 8-quart Instant Pot. Give these ingredients a thorough whisk to ensure they are well combined and smooth. This initial mix is crucial for a consistent flavor throughout your latte.
Set to Boil: Carefully place the lid onto your Instant Pot and ensure the sealing valve is set to “Sealing.” Next, select the “Yogurt” function. You’ll need to toggle this function until the display screen on your Instant Pot reads “Boil.” This specialized setting gently heats the mixture, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without the risk of scorching, which can often happen with traditional stovetop methods. (If your Instant Pot model does not feature a “Yogurt” function, please refer to the detailed alternative instructions provided in the “Notes” section of this recipe post for guidance.)
Release Pressure and Open: Once the Instant Pot completes its cycle and emits a beep, indicating it’s done, it’s time to release the pressure. Carefully switch the sealing valve from “Sealing” to “Venting.” Allow all the pressure to escape naturally until the float valve drops down (it might have already dropped, depending on your Instant Pot model). Once the pin is fully down, it’s safe to open the lid.
Final Flavor Infusion: With the lid open, give the rich pumpkin spice mixture inside the Instant Pot a final, vigorous whisk. This ensures a silky-smooth consistency. Turn off the “Keep Warm” function if it’s still active. Now, stir in the full 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract. This generous amount is vital for achieving that authentic, deep flavor found in your favorite coffee shop lattes. Taste the latte and, if desired, add a little more sugar or a pinch more spice to perfectly suit your palate.
Serve and Garnish: Your homemade Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte is now ready to enjoy! Pour the hot, aromatic beverage into your mugs. For an ultimate indulgence, generously top each serving with whipped cream and a light dusting of extra pumpkin pie spice. Serve immediately and let the cozy, comforting flavors of fall wash over you!
Customizing Your Latte: Delicious Substitutions for Every Dietary Need
One of the many benefits of making your Pumpkin Spice Latte at home is the ability to tailor it precisely to your dietary needs and preferences. Here are some fantastic substitutions to ensure everyone can enjoy this autumn classic:
Keto-Friendly: For those following a ketogenic lifestyle, you can easily adapt this recipe. Replace the whole milk with a blend of 3 cups of unsweetened almond milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. This combination helps maintain a rich, creamy texture. If you prefer, you can use all almond milk for a lighter option, though it won’t be quite as indulgent. Swap out the granulated sugar for a keto-friendly sweetener that measures 1:1 with sugar, such as Swerve or erythritol. Finish your latte with homemade whipped cream, either unsweetened or sweetened with your chosen keto-approved sweetener.
Dairy-Free: Achieving a delicious dairy-free pumpkin spice latte is simple. Replace the whole milk with your favorite unsweetened dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond milk or cashew milk. Cashew milk often provides a creamier texture that mimics dairy milk well. For topping, use a non-dairy whipped topping or simply enjoy your latte without it.
Vegan: To make this Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte completely vegan, start by substituting the whole milk with a plant-based milk of your choice. Cashew milk is an excellent option here due to its naturally creamy profile, but oat milk or soy milk also work wonderfully. For the whipped topping, either omit it entirely or select a readily available vegan non-dairy whipped topping to complete your drink.
Delicious Variations to Explore
While a hot Pumpkin Spice Latte is a classic, there are wonderful ways to adapt this recipe to suit different moods and temperatures. Don’t limit yourself to just one way to enjoy this fall favorite!
Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: On a warmer autumn day, or if you simply prefer your coffee cold, transforming this recipe into an iced version is incredibly easy. Once your Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte is prepared, allow it to cool down to at least room temperature. For faster cooling, you can even refrigerate it. Once chilled, pour a generous portion over a tall tumbler filled with ice. Garnish with whipped cream and a straw for a refreshing take on the classic PSL. It’s the perfect cool-down treat for early fall afternoons.
Pumpkin Spiced Coffee: For a less creamy, more coffee-forward drink, reduce the milk by half (e.g., use 2 cups milk) and increase the strong coffee portion to 2 cups. You’ll get a lovely hint of pumpkin spice and sweetness without the full latte creaminess, perfect for a lighter option.
Spiked Pumpkin Spice Latte: For an adult-only treat, consider adding a shot of your favorite liqueur after the latte has been prepared and poured into mugs. A splash of spiced rum, Irish cream, or bourbon (like a pumpkin spice bourbon cream) can add a delightful warmth and depth, perfect for a cozy evening by the fire. Always enjoy responsibly!
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Homemade PSL
Don’t worry if your Instant Pot model doesn’t feature a dedicated “Yogurt” setting; you can absolutely still prepare this delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte! Here’s a simple workaround: Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. To ensure gentle heating, press the “Sauté” button an additional time to toggle it over to the “Less” or “Normal” setting (aim for “Less” or “Normal” if “More” is too intense). Add the milk, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice to the pot and whisk them together. Allow the mixture to heat on this modified sauté function, stirring frequently to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom. Monitor the temperature; once the milk reaches a warm, steaming, but not boiling, temperature (ideally between 150-180°F), turn off the sauté function. Stir in the vanilla extract, adjust for sweetness, and serve immediately with your desired toppings.
Absolutely! If you find yourself without a pre-made pumpkin pie spice blend, crafting your own is quick and easy. For this recipe’s 1 ½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, you can create a fantastic substitute by combining the following individual spices: ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves. Mix these thoroughly, and you’ll have a wonderfully aromatic blend ready to infuse your latte with classic fall flavor. This homemade blend often tastes even fresher than store-bought versions!
Yes, this recipe is quite flexible! You can easily halve the recipe if you’re looking to make a smaller batch, perhaps for just one or two servings. Halving the ingredients will yield approximately 2 cups, which can be served as one very large latte or two smaller ones. Conversely, you can also double the recipe to prepare a larger batch for entertaining guests or to have extra on hand throughout the week. The cooking times will remain largely the same, but always ensure your Instant Pot isn’t overfilled (never past the max fill line).
Absolutely! While the Instant Pot offers unparalleled convenience, you don’t need one to enjoy this delicious homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte. Simply use a large saucepan or pot on your stovetop over medium heat. Add the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice to the saucepan. Whisk the mixture continuously as it heats, bringing it to a very warm, steaming temperature (again, avoid boiling). Once hot, remove it from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, taste to adjust for sweetness, and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. It’s just as delicious, just a slightly different heating method!
If you have any leftover latte (which is rare, it’s so good!), allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, use the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot (on “Less” or “Normal” setting, stirring often), or microwave it in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Remember to whisk well before serving to recombine any settled spices.
Recommended Equipment:
More Delicious Fall Pumpkin Recipes:
- No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
- Pumpkin Fluff Dip
- Pumpkin Fluff Pie
- Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds
- Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree
More Easy Instant Pot Beverages:
- Passion Tea Lemonade {Starbucks Copycat}
- Instant Pot Iced Tea
- Instant Pot Lemonade
I truly hope you adore this homemade Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte as much as my family and I do. It’s been a game-changer for enjoying those quintessential fall flavors right at home. If you tried this recipe and loved it, please consider leaving a star review in the recipe card below or sharing your thoughts in the comments section. Your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover this delightful drink! Thank you for stopping by and allowing me to share my culinary adventures with you. Happy Fall!
Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 6-8 tablespoons white granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice* see notes for substitution
- 1 cup strongly brewed coffee
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Optional
- Whipped cream for serving
- Additional pumpkin spice for serving
Instructions
-
Add milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice to the Instant Pot insert. Whisk thoroughly until well combined.
-
Place lid on the Instant Pot, turn valve to “Sealing”. Select “Yogurt” function and toggle to “Boil”. *See notes for models without a yogurt function.
-
Once Instant Pot beeps, carefully release pressure by switching valve to “Venting”. When float valve drops, open the lid.
-
Whisk contents well to ensure smoothness. Turn off the warming function.
-
Stir in vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
-
Serve immediately, garnished with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Notes
*Instant Pot Without a Yogurt Setting: If your Instant Pot model does not have a specific “Yogurt” function (or a “Boil” setting within it), you can still make this recipe successfully! Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. For a gentler heat, press the “Sauté” button again to switch to the “Less” or “Normal” setting. Add the milk, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice to the pot. Whisk continuously as the mixture heats to a warm, steaming temperature (approximately 150-180°F), being careful not to let it boil or scorch. Once heated, turn off the Sauté function. Stir in the vanilla extract, adjust sweetness to taste, and serve immediately with whipped cream and a pinch of pumpkin spice on top.
*Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitute:
No pumpkin pie spice on hand? No problem! You can easily create your own blend. For this recipe, combine the following spices. Note that this blend will yield slightly more than 1 ½ teaspoons, so measure out the required amount after mixing:
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Reheating Your Latte:
This Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Latte reheats beautifully! Allow any leftover latte to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, use the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot (on “Less” or “Normal” setting, stirring frequently to prevent scorching), or microwave in 30-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Always whisk well before serving to ensure a smooth, consistent drink.
Making Without an Instant Pot (Stovetop Method):
Even if you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still enjoy this delightful recipe! In a large saucepan, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is very warm and steaming, but not boiling. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, taste to adjust for sweetness, and serve immediately. This method provides a comforting homemade PSL with minimal effort.
Nutrition
Please note that some of my blog posts here at Dash for Dinner may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. Please see my Disclaimer for more information.