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Dirty Pumpkin Chai Latte Recipe – Easy Homemade Starbucks Copycat

dirty pumpkin chai latte - featured image

This cozy dirty pumpkin chai latte combines real pumpkin, homemade chai spice, and a bold shot of espresso for the ultimate fall-inspired drink. Make this Starbucks copycat at home in minutes with simple ingredients and customizable sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chai spice blend (see below)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup strong brewed chai tea (or 1 chai tea bag)
  • 1 shot espresso or 2 tablespoons strong coffee
  • 3/4 cup milk of choice (whole, oat, or almond milk)
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
  • Extra chai spice or cinnamon (for garnish)
  • For Homemade Chai Spice Blend:
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and chai spice blend.
  2. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened (about 2–3 minutes). If too thick, add a splash of water or milk.
  3. While the syrup simmers, brew strong chai tea (steep for at least 4 minutes) and prepare 1 shot of espresso or strong coffee.
  4. In a microwave-safe jar or small saucepan, heat milk until steaming but not boiling. Froth using a handheld frother, whisk, or by shaking in a jar until foamy.
  5. For extra flavor, whisk a tablespoon of pumpkin chai syrup into the milk before frothing.
  6. In a mug, add brewed chai tea and espresso. Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of pumpkin chai syrup (adjust to taste).
  7. Pour in the frothed milk, holding back foam with a spoon, then spoon the foam on top.
  8. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra chai spice or cinnamon, if desired.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and whipped topping. Adjust sweetness by reducing sugar or using a sugar substitute. Make extra pumpkin chai syrup and store in the fridge for up to a week. For iced, let tea and espresso cool, pour over ice, and use cold frothed milk. Whole milk and oat milk froth best. Always whisk syrup before using as pumpkin can settle.

Nutrition

Keywords: dirty chai, pumpkin chai latte, Starbucks copycat, fall drink, pumpkin spice, homemade latte, chai latte, espresso, cozy drinks, autumn recipes