Savor the fall with this quick spiked pumpkin spice latte recipe! For a delightful autumn cocktail, blend espresso, pumpkin spice syrup, bourbon, milk, whipped cream, and cinnamon.
Prep time: 2 minutes
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 269
Ingredients
- 1 shot of Espresso
- ½ oz pumpkin spice syrup
- 1 oz Bourbon
- 1 cup of milk
- Whipped cream - for topping
- Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon - for garnish
Equipment
- Espresso Machine or Coffee Maker
- Milk Frother optional
- Measuring Jigger
- Heatproof Mug
Instructions
- Brew Espresso: Brew 1 shot of Espresso using your espresso machine or usual coffee maker.
- Heat Milk: Warm up 1 cup of milk in a saucepan or in the microwave. If available, you can also use a milk frother to add milk foam to your drink.
- Add Pumpkin Spice Syrup: Pour ½ oz pumpkin spice syrup into your mug.
- Add Bourbon: Measure and pour 1 oz Bourbon into the mug as well.
- Combine with Espresso: Pour the brewed espresso over the syrup and bourbon mixture. You may stir briefly to combine.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with Cinnamon: Garnish with a cinnamon stick or with a pinch of ground cinnamon and serve immediately.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Espresso: If you don't have an espresso machine, use strong brewed coffee as a substitute. I've also used instant espresso powder in a pinch; follow the package instructions for making one shot.
- Pumpkin Spice Syrup: You can make your own by combining pumpkin puree, sugar, water, and pumpkin pie spices in a saucepan and simmering until thickened. Store-bought versions work just as well.
- Bourbon: If you prefer a different spirit, try spiced rum or brandy for a unique twist. I've found that these alternatives still complement the pumpkin spice flavors nicely.
- Milk: Any milk works here, including almond or oat milk, if you want a dairy-free option.
Making a Batch of Spiked Pumpkin Spice Latte:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 8 shots of espresso, 8 oz of pumpkin spice syrup, 8 oz of bourbon, and 8 cups of milk.
- Mix: Heat the milk and pumpkin spice syrup in a large saucepan. Brew all the espresso shots and combine them in the saucepan along with the bourbon.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into individual mugs, top each with whipped cream, sprinkle with cinnamon, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Bourbon Substitute: Use non-alcoholic bourbon or omit it for a kid-friendly version. I've tried adding a splash of vanilla extract to mimic some of the depth bourbon provides.
- Proceed As Usual: Follow the original steps using these non-alcoholic substitutes to enjoy a delicious, spiked pumpkin spice latte.
Making it Vegan:
- Milk Substitute: Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk instead of regular milk. Oat milk gives it a creamy texture similar to dairy milk.
- Whipped Cream Substitute: Use coconut or any other plant-based whipped cream available at your local store.
- Proceed As Usual: Follow the original steps using these vegan substitutes to enjoy a vegan spiked pumpkin spice latte.
What is a Spiked Pumpkin Spice Latte?
A spiked pumpkin latte is a bourbon-based drink made of espresso, pumpkin spice syrup, milk, whipped cream, and cinnamon. It’s easy to make because it involves straightforward steps like brewing espresso and heating milk with syrup before combining everything. This cozy cocktail perfectly captures the essence of fall in every sip. Interestingly, it’s an excellent way to enjoy your favorite seasonal flavors with an adult twist!
What is a Spiked Pumpkin Spice Latte Made of – The Ingredients
Use these ingredients to make your spiked pumpkin spice latte:
- Espresso: Provides a strong coffee base and rich flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Syrup: Adds the signature pumpkin spice taste with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Bourbon: Introduces warmth and depth to the drink.
- Milk: Creates a creamy texture and balances the flavors.
- Whipped Cream: Adds a light, sweet topping for extra indulgence.
- Cinnamon: Sprinkles on top for garnish and additional spice.
