How To Make A Pumpkin Spice Latte

Although the drink has been around for over a decade, in recent years it has gained somewhat of a cult following and photos of it are now clogging our social media newsfeeds. It seems like as soon as fall hits you cannot visit Instagram or Facebook without seeing the signature Starbucks cup with PSL (pumpkin spice latte) written on the side. 

The latte, popularized by Starbucks, has inspired a trend for using the classic pumpkin pie spice mix to flavor a variety of foods and drinks, ranging from granola to beer. Just a quick search of pumpkin spice latte brings up a variety of articles about the drink that people just can’t get enough of, you can now even purchase pumpkin spice latte inspired makeup. The PSL global phenomenon is taking over your city soon, click here to see Starbuck's price for a pumpkin spice latte in your city.

Unsurprisingly, this drink is not exactly healthy. It is full of sugar and fat, a grande latte (16oz) with whipped cream provides 420 calories with a whopping 50 grams of sugar (while there is no official daily recommended value for sugar, most health organizations recommend you get between 25-35 grams per day total, depending on gender and age) and an impressive 18 grams of fat.

Here at EAT SMARTER we like to make our favorite foods healthier, so we have come up with our own version of a pumpkin spice latte so you can enjoy everyone’s favorite fall flavor without sacrificing your health and diet.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

Spice mix

4 tablespoons ground cinnamon

4 teaspoons ground nutmeg

4 teaspoons ground ginger

3 teaspoons ground cloves

For the latte

Maple syrup, to taste

1 tablespoon fine pumpkin puree

Milk of your choice

1 shot of espresso

1. Add all the ingredients for the spice to a small bowl and mix to combine.
2. Measure out 1 tablespoon of the spice mix into a small bowl, combine with the desired amount of maple syrup and stir until well combined. Set aside.
3. Heat and froth the milk, add the espresso. Add the pumpkin puree and the spice/syrup mixture, stir well to combine.

Alternatively, you can use the spice/syrup mixture in your regular morning coffee for a lighter drink with the same warming fall effect.