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Perfect Salted Caramel Pumpkin Spice Latte (Easy Copycat Recipe)

perfect salted caramel pumpkin spice latte - featured image

This rich and cozy salted caramel pumpkin spice latte is a budget-friendly copycat recipe that delivers coffee shop flavor without the price tag. Made with simple ingredients and a homemade salted caramel sauce, it’s the perfect fall indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (100% pure, not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole, oat, or almond)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) strong brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Flaky sea salt for garnish
  • Whipped cream for topping (optional)
  • For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, at room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (or more to taste)

Instructions

  1. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce: Place granulated sugar in a clean saucepan over medium heat. Let it melt without stirring until it turns a deep amber color. Add butter pieces one at a time, whisking until fully incorporated. Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in flaky sea salt. Let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Mixture: In a saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant and well combined.
  3. Add the Milk and Heat: Pour in the milk and whisk continuously until hot but not boiling (small bubbles form around edges). Stir in vanilla extract. Optionally, froth half the milk mixture for foam.
  4. Assemble the Latte: Pour strong brewed coffee or espresso into a mug. Pour hot pumpkin milk mixture over it and stir gently. Drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of salted caramel sauce.
  5. Top and Serve: Add whipped cream, drizzle more caramel sauce, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t rush the caramel; low and slow is key. Use room temperature cream to prevent seizing. Fresh spices make a big difference. Balance salt to taste. The caramel sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin spice latte, salted caramel, copycat recipe, fall drink, coffee, homemade latte, pumpkin spice