Pumpkin Spice: Morning & Night

This isn't the first pumpkin spice recipe you've seen and I'm sure it won't be the last. Loving pumpkin spice anything has gotten so ginormously huge that's it's even jokeworthy at this point. But there's a reason that we're all obsessed with this fall staple... it's delicious.

Like many people, I'm a big fan of the ever-popular Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte. I don't typically buy coffee, but once the PSL hits shops it's hard to say no. That all changed when I stumbled upon this article about what's really in a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, and while I was not surprised to learn that there are artificial flavors, preservatives, caramel color, etc. etc. etc., I was surprised to learn that even a PSL ordered with soy milk is not dairy-free. (P.S. There's no pumpkin in it either.)


So I decided it was time to make a homemade version of the pumpkin spice latte and figured, hey while we're at it, why don't we make a pumpkin spice cocktail too? Pumpkin Spice White Russian, anyone?!


First we're going to need to make our base for both drinks: pumpkin spice syrup! If you've ever tried mixing cinnamon or spices into a drink, you know that they usually just float on the top and make your drink gritty. Making a syrup will give you the flavors of the spices without the grit! This syrup can be kept in your fridge for a few weeks, so anytime you want to whip up a drink, it'll be a breeze!

Pumpkin Spice Syrup
Here's what you need!
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp. groung ginger
- 1/2 tsp. allspice
- 1 cup water

NOTE: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice are basically what makes up pumpkin pie spice. If you have pumpkin pie spice on hand, feel free to use 1 tbsp. of that instead!

Here's what you do!
- Combine all ingredients in a medium pot.
- Simmer over medium heat, stirring until all sugar has dissolved (about 10 minutes or so).
- Turn of heat and let cool. Strain into a sealable jar and store in refrigerator. (We used a fine mesh strainer from Nick's brewing supplies to strain the syrup, but cheesecloth would work as well.)

Now that we have our syrup, let's make some drinks!

Morning: Pumpkin Spice Latte
Here's what you need! (1 1/2 oz = 1 shot)
- 1 1/2 oz. pumpkin spice syrup
- 4 oz. strong coffee
- 4-6 oz. milk (we used almond)


Here's what you do!
- Optional: If making a hot PSL, heat your milk in the microwave to make it frothy and warm so it doesn't cool your drink down immediately!
- Combine all ingredients in a mug and stir.


You can make your pumpkin spice latte cold or warm - both are delicious!

Night: Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Here's what you need! (Recipe adapted from A Beautiful Mess) (1 1/2 oz = 1 shot)
- 1 1/2 oz. pumpkin spice syrup
- 3 oz. vodka
- 2 oz. coffee liqueur
- 1 1/2 oz. cream (we used dairy-free)
- 3-4 ice cubes


Here's what you do!
- Combine all ingredients in a glass and stir.
- Serve cold!


Oh man, this White Russian is SO good. You definitely don't want to miss out on this recipe - share it with your friends! Or better yet, host a happy hour and make it for them instead!

Whether you're a morning or evening person, there's a wonderfully delicious pumpkin spice drink for everyone. We hope you enjoy!

Sarah & Nick

P.S. Like that painted mug or those pretty cloth napkins? You can find the tutorials here and here!