Move over, PSL – there’s a new fall-flavored sheriff in town. Introducing my Starbucks copycat Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte! This delightful drink combines the warm spices of chai with the creamy richness of pumpkin, making it perfect for cozy nights or enjoying with friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this latte is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious drink in under 5 minutes.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of chai and pumpkin creates a unique and indulgent flavor profile that stands out.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice levels to suit your taste. You can even swap the milk for your favorite dairy-free option!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for fall gatherings, lazy afternoons, or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Homemade Delight: Enjoy a café-quality drink without having to leave your home.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Milk frother
- Mason jar or glass
- Glass for serving
- Spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Milk frother: This tool helps create the light and fluffy pumpkin foam that makes this latte special.
- Mason jar or glass: Perfect for mixing ingredients and frothing; it also looks great when serving your drink.
- Glass for serving: Choosing a clear glass showcases the beautiful layers of your latte while adding an aesthetic touch.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Foam
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp whole milk
- 1 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or vanilla syrup)
- ⅛ tsp pumpkin pie spice
For the Latte
- ½ cup milk of choice (I used 2%)
- ½ cup chai tea concentrate
How to Make Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Foam
- Add all the pumpkin foam ingredients to a mason jar or glass.
- Use a milk frother and froth until whipped and well-combined (about 10-20 seconds). Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble Your Drink
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour in the ½ cup milk of choice followed by the ½ cup chai tea concentrate.
Step 3: Top with Pumpkin Foam
- Carefully spoon the whipped pumpkin foam on top of your iced chai.
- Enjoy sipping your homemade Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte!
How to Serve Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Serving your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is all about enhancing the experience. This delightful drink can be enjoyed in various ways that complement its rich flavors.
Enjoy it with a Fun Straw
- Using a colorful straw can make sipping this latte even more enjoyable. Choose a reusable straw for an eco-friendly twist!
Pair with Fall Snacks
- Consider serving your latte alongside some tasty fall treats like pumpkin bread or spiced cookies. The flavors will harmonize beautifully.
Add a Dash of Extra Spice
- For an added kick, sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top of your foam. It enhances both aroma and taste.
Serve it Chilled
- If you’re hosting a party, consider making larger batches and serving them in mason jars. This way, everyone can enjoy their own iced latte.
Garnish with Whipped Cream
- Top your latte with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent finish. Drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce on top for extra sweetness.
How to Perfect Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Perfecting your iced pumpkin cream chai tea latte is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an even tastier drink.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pumpkin puree and high-quality chai concentrate will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your drink.
Chill Your Glass: Before serving, chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A cold glass keeps your drink refreshingly cool longer.
Experiment with Sweeteners: While maple syrup is delicious, try using different sweeteners like honey or agave syrup to find your perfect balance.
Froth Properly: Ensure you froth the cream mixture until it’s light and airy. This texture adds to the overall enjoyment of the latte.
Best Side Dishes for Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Pairing side dishes with your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte can elevate your tasting experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
Pumpkin Muffins: These moist muffins are spiced just right. They make a great snack that complements the chai flavors perfectly.
Cinnamon Rolls: Soft and gooey cinnamon rolls topped with cream cheese icing provide a sweet contrast to the spiced chai tea latte.
Apple Crisp: The warm flavors of baked apples and cinnamon in this dessert beautifully match the seasonal vibe of fall drinks.
Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses paired with nuts and dried fruits can create an interesting savory-sweet contrast to your drink.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sugar offer crunchiness and enhance the nutty notes found in chai spices.
Scones: Flaky scones, especially those flavored with cranberries or orange zest, add a lovely texture and taste when enjoyed alongside your latte.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little of the pumpkin puree or spices can alter the flavor. Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Skipping the Frothing Step: Not frothing the cream properly can lead to a less airy and delightful foam. Make sure to froth for 10-20 seconds until fluffy.
- Choosing the Wrong Milk: Not all milk substitutes work well in this recipe. Stick with milk that has a good fat content, like whole or 2%, for a creamy texture.
- Neglecting to Chill: Serving your chai tea warm instead of iced will change the experience. Ensure you add enough ice before pouring in the tea and milk.
- Overcomplicating Flavors: Adding too many extra ingredients can muddy the flavor profile. Keep it simple and let the pumpkin spice shine.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep the pumpkin foam separate from the liquid for best texture.
Freezing Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
- Freeze in an ice cube tray for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
Reheating Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe container until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring often to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat).
Can I make this drink dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute regular milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
How do I enhance the flavor of my iced latte?
Adding a splash of vanilla extract can elevate its taste. You may also increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice for more warmth.
What if I don’t have chai tea concentrate?
You can brew strong chai tea using tea bags or loose leaves and adjust according to taste.
How many calories are in an Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)?
This recipe contains approximately 300 calories per serving, depending on your ingredient choices.
Final Thoughts
The Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) is a delightful twist on fall flavors that you can make at home. Its creamy texture and warm spices create a comforting drink perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different sweeteners or milks to suit your taste preferences!
Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Enjoy a delightful Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) at home! Quick and easy, indulge in fall flavors today!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 1
- Category: Drink
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp whole milk
- 1 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or vanilla syrup)
- ⅛ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup milk of choice (e.g., whole or 2%)
- ½ cup chai tea concentrate
- Ice
Instructions
- In a mason jar, combine the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Use a milk frother to whip until fluffy.
- Fill a serving glass with ice and add the milk followed by the chai tea concentrate.
- Spoon the whipped pumpkin foam over the iced chai mixture and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte (approximately 300ml)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
