Pumpkin spice season is here, but in Australia, September does not exactly call for scarves, fireplaces and steaming mugs.
As the days start getting warmer, there is a much more refreshing way to get your pumpkin spice fix.
Enter the Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Creamy, spiced and poured over plenty of ice, this seasonal coffee combines rich espresso with milk and the warming flavours we associate with a classic pumpkin spice latte. Think cinnamon, nutmeg and sweet autumn spice, just without the hot coffee.
It is also incredibly easy to make at home.
Whether you are getting into the Halloween spirit, looking for a new iced coffee to add to your spring rotation or simply love anything pumpkin spice, this one deserves a spot on your coffee menu.
What Does an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte Taste Like?
An Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte is all about contrast.
You have the bold, slightly bitter flavour of espresso balanced by creamy milk and sweet pumpkin spice. The spices bring warmth and depth, while serving everything over ice keeps the drink refreshing.
Our Pumpkin Spice Syrup makes it easy to recreate that familiar seasonal flavour at home without needing to measure out individual spices or make a pumpkin mixture from scratch.
The result is smooth, creamy, sweet and gently spiced, with enough coffee coming through to keep everything balanced.
Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe
The best part? You only need a few ingredients and about five minutes.
You'll Need
- 30ml espresso
- 15 to 20ml Cashmere Syrups Pumpkin Spice Syrup
- 180ml milk of choice
- Ice
- Whipped cream, optional
- Ground cinnamon, to garnish
How to Make an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte
1. Brew your espresso
Start with a fresh shot of espresso. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavour, use a double shot.
2. Add the pumpkin spice
While the espresso is still warm, stir through 15 to 20ml of Pumpkin Spice Syrup.
Mixing the syrup with the warm espresso first helps the flavours combine evenly throughout the drink.
3. Fill your glass with ice
Grab a tall glass and fill it generously with ice.
More ice is usually better when making iced coffee. A glass with only a few cubes will melt quickly and can leave you with a watery drink.
4. Add your milk
Pour your favourite milk over the ice, leaving a little room at the top for the coffee.
5. Pour over the pumpkin spice espresso
Slowly pour your coffee mixture over the milk.
Give everything a good stir before drinking, or admire those coffee shop layers for a moment first.
6. Finish it your way
For a little extra indulgence, top with whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.
Then grab a straw and enjoy.
How Much Pumpkin Spice Syrup Should You Use?
We recommend starting with around 15ml of Pumpkin Spice Syrup for one iced latte.
If you prefer your coffee on the sweeter side or want the pumpkin spice flavour to be more prominent, increase it to around 20ml.
Using a double shot of espresso? You may also find that a little extra syrup helps balance the stronger coffee flavour.
The easiest rule is to start small, taste, then add more if you want it.
Make It Extra Creamy
Want an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte with an even richer texture?
Try using full cream milk or a creamy oat milk. Both give the drink a fuller mouthfeel that works particularly well with warming spice flavours.
You can also add a layer of cold foam on top.
Simply froth a small amount of cold milk until thick and foamy, then spoon it over your finished latte. Finish with cinnamon and you have a seriously impressive homemade iced coffee.
Turn It Into a Halloween Coffee
If you are planning a Halloween party or simply looking for an excuse to make your morning coffee a little more fun, an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte is an easy place to start.
Top your drink with whipped cream and cinnamon, or add a drizzle around the inside of the glass before pouring.
Hosting friends? Set up a simple iced coffee station with espresso, milk, ice, Pumpkin Spice Syrup and a few toppings so everyone can build their own.
You could put out:
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon
- Chocolate shavings
- Caramel drizzle
- Mini marshmallows
- Cinnamon sticks
It is low effort, looks great on the table and means everyone can make their drink exactly how they like it.
No Espresso Machine? No Problem
You do not need a coffee machine to make an Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte at home.
Strong instant coffee works perfectly well. Dissolve around 1 to 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in a small amount of hot water, then stir through your Pumpkin Spice Syrup.
You can also use cold brew.
If you are using cold brew, add the Pumpkin Spice Syrup directly to the milk and stir thoroughly before combining everything. This helps distribute the syrup evenly without warm espresso to dissolve it.
Try a Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam
Once you have mastered the classic recipe, try putting the pumpkin spice flavour in the foam instead.
Make your usual iced latte with espresso, milk and ice.
In a separate glass or small milk frother, combine a splash of milk with Pumpkin Spice Syrup and froth until thick and creamy.
Spoon the pumpkin spice cold foam over your iced latte and finish with cinnamon.
Each sip gives you a little creamy pumpkin spice followed by cold coffee underneath.
Your Spring Take on Pumpkin Spice Season
While the other side of the world might be welcoming pumpkin spice season with cosy jumpers and hot lattes, Australian spring calls for something a little cooler.
An Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte gives you everything there is to love about the seasonal favourite, from sweet spice to creamy coffee, while still making sense on a sunny September afternoon.
Make it simple with espresso, milk, ice and Pumpkin Spice Syrup, or go all out with cold foam, whipped cream and cinnamon.
Halloween coffee, sorted.
Shop Cashmere Syrups Pumpkin Spice Syrup and make your own Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte at home.
Looking for your next drink to try? Explore the Cashmere Syrups blog for more coffee recipes, seasonal favourites and café-inspired drinks you can make at home.
