The cozy, spiced flavors of autumn come alive in this delightful Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe. It brings together the perfect balance of creamy pumpkin goodness, fragrant chai spices, and a touch of sweetness that makes every sip feel like a warm hug on a cooler day. Whether you’re craving a refreshing iced treat or a comforting fall beverage, this recipe captures the magic of the season in your own kitchen, turning simple ingredients into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step toward creating a sensational drink that’s both indulgent and refreshing. Each component plays a vital role, from the velvety creaminess to the bright chai spices and that unmistakable pumpkin charm.
- Heavy whipping cream: Provides the rich, thick texture essential for the pumpkin cold foam.
- Whole milk: Balances creaminess and lightness for a smooth mouthfeel.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The heart of the latte’s flavor, offering authentic pumpkin taste and color.
- Vanilla syrup: Adds natural sweetness and pulls all the flavors together beautifully.
- Pumpkin pie spice: Infuses each sip with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
- Milk of choice (such as 2%): The base liquid that blends perfectly with chai tea.
- Chai tea concentrate: Brings bold, spicy tea flavor that’s the star of the latte.
- Ice: Keeps the whole drink cool and refreshing, perfect for iced enjoyment.
How to Make Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Whip the Pumpkin Cream Foam
Start by combining the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla syrup, and pumpkin pie spice in a mason jar or a glass. Using a milk frother, whip these ingredients vigorously until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and beautifully blended—this usually takes about 10 to 20 seconds. This pumpkin cream foam is the crowning glory of the drink, so be sure it’s as airy and smooth as possible before setting it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chai Base
Next, fill your serving glass with plenty of ice to keep your latte refreshingly cold. Pour in half a cup of the milk of your choice, followed by half a cup of chai tea concentrate. This combination provides the bold, spicy foundation of your latte, perfectly balancing the creamy pumpkin foam you just whipped up.
Step 3: Assemble the Latte
Generously spoon your luscious pumpkin cold foam over the iced chai mixture. The foam will float on top, creating that signature layered look that makes this drink so visually inviting. It also seals in the flavors and textures, giving every sip a creamy and spiced finish.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Homemade Latte
Before diving in, you can give the latte a gentle stir if you want the flavors to mingle fully, but it’s just as delightful sipped with the foam and chai layered. Now, sit back and savor the magic you’ve made with this irresistible Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe.
How to Serve Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor by sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top of the foam. A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds a lovely sheen and sweetness that turns this latte into something extra special. Nothing lifts the experience like a pretty garnish that invites you to dig in.
Side Dishes
This drink pairs wonderfully with light pastries such as cinnamon rolls, almond biscotti, or soft pumpkin muffins. The sweet spice notes in these treats complement the flavors of the latte perfectly, making your snack time feel like a mini celebration. If you’re looking for something savory, a flaky butter croissant makes a lovely balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of flair, serve this latte in a clear glass mug so the layers are visible. You can also rim the glass with a mixture of cinnamon sugar to add texture and extra flavor. For gatherings, prepare individual jars of pumpkin cream foam in advance and let guests add their own chai and milk—it’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover pumpkin cream foam, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick whip before using again to restore its fluffy texture. The chai concentrate can also be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to a week, making future lattes quick and easy.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for the pumpkin cream foam itself, as it can lose its texture and separate on thawing. However, you can freeze the canned pumpkin puree or homemade chai tea concentrate for longer storage; just thaw and use fresh ingredients for the best results.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed iced and fresh, so reheating isn’t typically done. If you prefer a warm version, gently heat the milk and chai concentrate mixture on the stove before adding the pumpkin cream foam. Warm the foam separately if desired, but be careful not to melt its airy texture.
FAQs
Can I use non-dairy milk for this latte?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or coconut milk all work wonderfully with the spices and pumpkin. Just choose your favorite non-dairy milk to keep the drink creamy while fitting your dietary needs.
Where can I find chai tea concentrate?
Chai tea concentrate is available at most grocery stores in the beverage or tea aisle. You can also make your own by brewing strong chai tea and reducing it, or by mixing chai spices with black tea.
Is canned pumpkin the same as pumpkin pie filling?
No, canned pumpkin is just pure pumpkin puree and is ideal for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling usually contains added sugar and spices, which might alter the drink’s flavor balance.
Can I make this latte vegan?
Yes! Swap out heavy cream and whole milk for coconut or cashew cream, and choose any plant-based milk. Use maple syrup instead of vanilla syrup for sweetness, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly version that’s just as delightful.
How sweet is this latte? Can I adjust the sweetness?
This latte has a gentle sweetness from the vanilla syrup, but you can easily adjust it. Add more syrup if you like it sweeter or reduce it for a less sweet, more spice-forward drink.
Final Thoughts
This Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe is truly a game-changer when it comes to enjoying fall flavors at home. It’s approachable, fun to make, and incredibly delicious—perfect for cozy afternoons or impressing friends with your barista skills. I can’t wait for you to try making this one and experience the warm spices and creamy pumpkin magic all year round!
Print
Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 drink
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is a delightful Starbucks copycat recipe that combines creamy pumpkin-flavored foam with spicy chai tea. Perfect for autumn or any time you crave a cozy, refreshing beverage, it features a sweet and fluffy pumpkin cream topping over chilled chai tea, making it a deliciously festive drink to enjoy at home.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Cream Foam
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Chai Latte
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (such as 2%)
- 1/2 cup chai tea concentrate
- Ice, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Cream Foam: In a mason jar or glass, combine the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Use a milk frother to whip the mixture until it becomes thick, fluffy, and well-combined, approximately 10-20 seconds. Set aside.
- Assemble the Drink: Fill a serving glass with ice cubes, then pour in half a cup of your chosen milk followed by half a cup of chai tea concentrate.
- Add the Pumpkin Foam: Spoon the prepared pumpkin cold foam generously over the top of the iced chai latte, creating a rich, creamy layer.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stir gently if desired, then sip and enjoy your homemade iced pumpkin cream chai tea latte, a perfect seasonal treat.
Notes
- Use a milk frother to achieve the ideal fluffy texture of the pumpkin cream foam.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of vanilla syrup to your taste preference.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut or oat milk, though the texture may slightly vary.
- Ensure your chai tea concentrate is chilled prior to assembling for the best iced experience.
- Pumpkin pie spice can be substituted with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if unavailable.
