Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte: Your New Favorite Fall Drink

Imagine It’s a crisp autumn morning, leaves are rustling outside, and you’re wrapped in your coziest sweater. What’s missing? A steaming mug of Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte—the perfect blend of spicy chai and sweet, earthy pumpkin.

If you love pumpkin spice lattes (PSL) but crave something deeper and more aromatic, this drink is for you. By combining the bold spices of chai tea with the creamy sweetness of pumpkin, you get a latte that’s richer, more balanced, and oh-so-comforting.

The best part? You can make it at home in minutes—no overpriced coffee shop runs required. Whether you prefer it hot, iced, dairy-free, or with an extra caffeine kick, this recipe is fully customizable.

So grab your favorite mug, and let’s dive into the world of Pumpkin Spice Chai Lattes—your new fall obsession.

Table of Contents

What is a Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte?

A Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte is a creamy, spiced drink that merges two beloved flavors: chai tea and pumpkin spice. Unlike a traditional Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), which relies mostly on sweet syrup, this version gets its depth from real pumpkin purée and a blend of warming spices.

Why It’s Better Than a Basic PSL

More Complex Flavor: Chai’s cardamom, ginger, and black pepper add a spicy kick that balances pumpkin’s sweetness.

Less Sugar: Many coffee shop PSLs are loaded with syrup, but at home, you control the sweetness.
Real Ingredients: No artificial flavors—just pumpkin purée, chai tea, and spices.

Key Flavors You’ll Taste

Chai Spices: Cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, black pepper.

Pumpkin Spice: Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, clove.
Creamy Sweetness: Pumpkin purée + your choice of milk (dairy or plant-based).

This drink is like a hug in a mug—perfect for chilly mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even a cozy evening treat.

Why You’ll Love This Drink

If you’re still on the fence about trying a Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte, here’s why it’s about to become your go-to fall beverage:

1. It’s the Ultimate Comfort Drink

There’s something magical about wrapping your hands around a warm mug filled with spiced chai and pumpkin. The aroma alone is enough to melt away stress.

2. Healthier Than Coffee Shop Versions

Most café-bought PSLs are packed with sugar and artificial flavors. When you make it at home, you:

Control the sweetness (use maple syrup, honey, or sugar-free alternatives).
Skip the preservatives.
Add real pumpkin for fiber and vitamins.

3. Fully Customizable

Dairy-Free? Use oat, almond, or coconut milk.
Need caffeine? Add a shot of espresso for a Dirty Pumpkin Chai Latte.
Prefer it cold? Make an Iced Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte in seconds.

4. Perfect for Fall Entertaining

Hosting friends? Whip up a batch and serve with pumpkin bread or cinnamon cookies. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making a Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte is easy, but the right ingredients make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients

Chai Tea: Use strong brewed chai (bags or loose-leaf).

Pumpkin Purée: Not pumpkin pie filling—just pure pumpkin.
Milk: Whole milk for creaminess, or oat/almond milk for dairy-free.
Sweetener: Maple syrup, honey, or brown sugar.

Spices: Pumpkin pie spice or a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.

Optional Boosters

Vanilla Extract (enhances sweetness).
Whipped Cream & Cinnamon Sprinkle (for that café-style finish).

Espresso Shot (for a Dirty Chai version).

Why Quality Matters

Fresh spices = better flavor. Pre-ground spices lose potency over time.
Real pumpkin purée (not pie filling) ensures a natural, smooth texture.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte (Step-by-Step)

Now for the fun part—let’s brew this cozy drink together! Follow these simple steps for a perfect Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte every time.

Step 1: Brew Strong Chai Tea

Option 1 (Quick): Steep 2 chai tea bags in 1 cup hot water for 5 minutes.
Option 2 (Stronger Flavor): Simmer 1 tbsp loose-leaf chai with 1 cup water + extra spices for 5 mins, then strain.
Pro Tip: For extra spice, add a cinnamon stick or fresh ginger while brewing.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Spice Mix

In a small saucepan, whisk together:

2 tbsp pumpkin purée (real pumpkin, not pie filling!)
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or ¼ tsp each: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove)

1-2 tbsp sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or sugar)
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional, but delicious)
½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

Heat on medium-low, whisking until smooth (don’t boil!).

Step 3: Combine & Froth

Pour brewed chai into a mug.
Add the pumpkin milk mixture and stir well.

Froth the remaining ½ cup milk (use a frother, French press, or shake in a jar!).

Step 4: Serve & Garnish

Top with frothed milk.
Optional: Whipped cream + cinnamon sprinkle.

For extra indulgence: Drizzle of caramel or pumpkin spice dust.

Hot Tip: For a super creamy latte, blend everything for 10 seconds!

Creative Variations to Try

One recipe, endless possibilities! Here are 5 delicious twists on your Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte:

1. Iced Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte

Brew chai, let it cool.
Shake with pumpkin mixture + milk in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Pour over ice, top with cold foam.

2. Dirty Pumpkin Chai Latte

Add 1 shot of espresso (or ½ cup strong coffee).
Perfect for morning energy boosts!

3. Vegan & Dairy-Free Version

Use oat or coconut milk.

Sweeten with date syrup or agave.

4. Extra-Spicy “Masala” Style

Double the ginger + black pepper.
Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.

5. Pumpkin Chai Latte Smoothie

Blend with 1 frozen banana + ice for a drinkable dessert.

Where to Find the Best Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte

Coffee Shop Hacks

Starbucks: Order a Chai Latte with Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam.
Local Cafés: Ask if they’ll make a custom “Pumpkin Chai” (many will!).

Why Homemade Wins

Cost: Save $5+ per drink.
Health: No mystery syrups or excess sugar.
Customization: Adjust spices, sweetness, and milk to your taste.

The History Behind the Flavors

Pumpkin Spice’s Surprising Roots

Dates back to 18th-century Dutch and American pumpkin pie recipes.
Became a mainstream phenomenon after Starbucks launched the PSL in 2003.

Chai’s Ancient Tradition

Originated in India 5,000+ years ago as an Ayurvedic remedy.

“Chai” simply means “tea” in Hindi—what we call “chai latte” is really “masala chai.”

Why They Work Together

Both flavors feature warming spices (cinnamon, ginger, clove), making them a natural pairing for fall.

Perfect Pairings

Elevate your latte experience with these delicious matches:

Sweet Treats

Pumpkin bread or cinnamon rolls
Ginger cookies or shortbread

Savory Snacks

Spiced nuts

Cheese & apple slices

Cozy Activities

Reading by the fireplace
Hosting a fall brunch

Conclusion: Your New Fall Ritual

There you have it—your complete guide to the ultimate Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte! This drink combines the best of both worlds: the bold spice of chai and the sweet comfort of pumpkin.

Why You’ll Make This All Season

✅ Easy & Affordable (no barista skills needed!)
✅ Healthier than coffee shop versions
✅ Endlessly Customizable (hot, iced, vegan, extra spicy…)

FAQ’s

What is a pumpkin spice chai latte at Starbucks?

A Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte at Starbucks is a creamy blend of chai tea, pumpkin spice sauce, and steamed milk, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spices.

How to order a pumpkin chai tea latte at Starbucks?

Ask for a Chai Tea Latte with pumpkin spice syrup (2-4 pumps depending on size) and whipped cream for the perfect Pumpkin Chai Tea Latte at Starbucks!

Is pumpkin spice latte just chai?

No, a Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) is espresso-based with pumpkin and warming spices, while chai latte is tea-based with a different spice blend – though both are cozy fall favorites!