If you are craving that perfect balance of cozy spices and creamy chill, this Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe is your new best friend. It captures all the comforting warmth of fall spices combined with the refreshing iced latte experience, right in your own kitchen. With its luscious pumpkin cream topping floating over spicy chai and milk, this beverage is not only a treat to sip but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for any season craving a little pumpkin magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe plays a starring role. From the rich creaminess to the fragrant spices, these simple staples combine to create a drink that’s both indulgent and balanced, with just the right color and texture to make your taste buds dance.
- Heavy whipping cream: Creates that luxurious, thick pumpkin foam topping that melts beautifully into the drink.
- Whole milk: Adds a touch of smoothness and lightness to round out the cream.
- Canned pumpkin puree: Brings natural pumpkin flavor and subtle earthiness for authentic fall vibes.
- Vanilla syrup: Sweetens gently while infusing warmth and depth of flavor.
- Pumpkin pie spice: Its mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove awakens the senses with classic spice notes.
- Milk of choice (such as 2%): The base liquid that blends perfectly with chai, keeping the drink light and creamy.
- Chai tea concentrate: Packed with robust, spicy chai flavors, this is the soul of the latte.
- Ice: Essential for that refreshing chill that contrasts the spicy warmth.
How to Make Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Pumpkin Cream Foam
Start by combining heavy whipping cream, whole milk, canned pumpkin puree, vanilla syrup, and pumpkin pie spice in a mason jar or tall glass. Use a milk frother for about 10-20 seconds until the mixture transforms into a thick, luscious foam. This pumpkin cream topping is what makes this copycat latte so special—a creamy cloud full of pumpkin goodness that sits on top of your drink like a dream.
Step 2: Prepare the Chai Milk Base
Fill your serving glass with plenty of ice to ensure that refreshing chill. Then pour in half a cup of your choice of milk followed by half a cup of chai tea concentrate. The combination of creamy milk and bold chai gives the drink that perfect spicy backbone every sip needs.
Step 3: Top with Pumpkin Cold Foam
Now spoon the homemade pumpkin cream foam generously over the iced chai base. Watch as that creamy layer floats effortlessly and offers a velvety texture with each sip. This layering not only looks stunning but also lets you enjoy the contrast between spice and sweet, cold and creamy.
Step 4: Sip and Enjoy Your Homemade Latte
For the full experience, you can gently stir your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe if you want to blend all the flavors, or leave it layered for a tasting adventure. Either way, grab a straw or a spoon and savor the autumnal magic you’ve created!
How to Serve Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
Top your latte with a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for an added aromatic touch. You can even sprinkle some finely grated nutmeg or use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer. These little additions elevate both the presentation and the flavor profile, making your drink café-quality at home.
Side Dishes
The warm spices and creamy texture of this iced latte pair beautifully with light, flaky pastries like croissants or pumpkin scones. Alternatively, a crisp apple or spiced biscotti can balance the flavors while adding a satisfying crunch to your cozy moment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the latte in a clear glass to show off those layers of dark chai and bright pumpkin cream foam. Adding a decorative straw or a cinnamon stick enhances the visual appeal. You can also drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top for an extra sweet surprise that will wow guests instantly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pumpkin cream, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a quick whisk before using to regain that fluffy texture, and prepare fresh chai tea to combine when ready to serve again.
Freezing
Because of the dairy and pumpkin puree, freezing the pumpkin cream foam is not recommended as it may separate or change texture upon thawing. Instead, keep the chai concentrate and milk mixture in the freezer separately if needed, then thaw before assembling your latte.
Reheating
This drink tastes best served cold, so reheating is generally not advised. However, if you want a warm version, gently heat the chai and milk base on the stove and top with freshly whipped pumpkin cream warmed slightly or left cold on top.
FAQs
Can I use a non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or coconut milk work wonderfully in this Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe, each bringing their own unique flavors and creaminess. Just choose your favorite to customize the drink to your taste and dietary needs.
Where can I find chai tea concentrate?
Chai tea concentrate is available at many grocery stores near the juice or tea section, or you can purchase it online. If you prefer, you can make your own by brewing a strong chai tea and then reducing it to concentrate the flavors.
How do I make this latte less sweet?
You can easily reduce the sweetness by using less vanilla syrup or opting for a sugar-free version. Adjusting to your preference ensures the spice and pumpkin shine through without being overly sugary.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
While canned pumpkin puree offers convenience and consistent texture, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin to make this recipe. Just ensure it’s smooth and well-strained to maintain the creamy foam texture.
Is it necessary to use a milk frother for the pumpkin cream?
Using a milk frother is the easiest way to achieve the fluffy texture of the pumpkin cream foam, but you can also whisk vigorously by hand or use an electric hand mixer. The key is to combine enough air into the mixture for that creamy, luxurious finish.
Final Thoughts
This Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe is truly a delightful homemade treat that invites you to celebrate the flavors of the season anytime. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable—perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups. Give it a try, and I promise this will become a favorite in your drink rotation for years to come.
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 blends creamy pumpkin-flavored foam with spiced chai tea for a refreshing and festive fall-inspired drink. Perfectly balanced with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a frothy topping, this iced latte is easy to make and ideal for pumpkin spice lovers.
Ingredients
For the 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
For the 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, about 10-20 seconds. Set aside.
- Assemble the Iced Chai Latte: Fill a serving glass with ice, then pour in the 1/2 cup milk of your choice followed by 1/2 cup chai tea concentrate.
- Add the Pumpkin Foam: Spoon the prepared pumpkin cold foam generously over the top of your iced chai latte.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stir gently if desired, then sip and enjoy your homemade pumpkin cream chai tea latte!
Notes
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and spices.
- Adjust pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference.
- Vanilla syrup adds sweetness and flavor; substitute with simple syrup if preferred.
- The frothing step is key to achieving the signature creamy, airy pumpkin topping.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk alternatives and non-dairy creamers.
