Mocha Pumpkin Spice Latte

Short Description

A cozy and decadent drink combining rich chocolate, warm pumpkin spice, and bold espresso, topped with whipped cream for the ultimate autumn indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smooth chocolate meets seasonal pumpkin spice in a creamy latte
• Homemade syrup adds depth and flavor over syrup packets
• Customizable sweetness and topping choices
• Perfect for fall mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or holiday vibes

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pumpkin Mocha Syrup

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 oz 70% cocoa dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

Mocha Pumpkin Spice Latte

• 3 cups whole milk
• 8 tablespoons espresso powder
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• Chocolate syrup (optional)
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

Directions

Pumpkin Mocha Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine pumpkin puree, milk, brown sugar, cocoa powder, chopped dark chocolate, molasses, and pumpkin pie spice.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until a thick, cohesive chocolate syrup forms.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. Set aside to cool and thicken.

Mocha Pumpkin Spice Latte

1. In a separate saucepan, simmer the milk over medium heat, then remove from heat and keep covered to stay warm.
2. Add 2 tablespoons espresso powder into a large coffee mug.
3. Pour ¾ cup of the hot milk into the mug and stir until dissolved.
4. Stir in ½ cup of the pumpkin mocha syrup until evenly mixed.
5. Repeat to prepare additional mugs (total makes approximately 3–4 large servings).
6. Top each latte with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and chocolate shavings if desired.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: Makes about 3–4 large mugs
• Prep Time: ~5 minutes to prepare syrup ingredients
• Cooking Syrup: ~3 minutes
• Heating/Assembly: ~5 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 13 minutes

Variations

• Substitute oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free version
• Use espresso shots instead of instant espresso powder for a smoother flavor
• Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra spice
• Reduce sugar in syrup for a less sweet latte—adjust to taste
• Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chunks or cocoa nibs for garnish freshness

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover pumpkin mocha syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
• Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave before mixing into warm milk
• Prepared latte is best served immediately—milk and espresso match fresh for best flavor

FAQs

1. Can I make this latte dairy-free?

Yes—use plant-based milk (e.g. oat, almond, soy) both in syrup and latte.

2. Can I use brewed espresso instead of instant powder?

Absolutely—use 1 shot per ¾ cup milk for a more traditional espresso-based latte.

3. Is canned pumpkin necessary, or can I use fresh?

You can use cooked fresh pumpkin puree, but be sure to drain excess water for consistency.

4. Can I prepare the syrup ahead of time?

Yes—make and store the syrup in the fridge up to 1 week before use.

5. Is it possible to make a decaf version?

Use decaf instant espresso or brewed decaf coffee in place of regular espresso.

6. Can I make a larger batch for entertaining?

Yes—muliply syrup and milk components proportionally and keep warm in a thermos or slow cooker.

7. How sweet is this drink?

It’s moderately sweet—the homemade syrup allows customization; decrease sugar for a less sweet version.

8. Can I increase the chocolate intensity?

Yes—add extra cocoa powder or use a higher percentage dark chocolate when making the syrup.

9. Will leftover latte separate?

Yes—components may separate over time. Stir or reheat lightly to recombine before serving leftovers.

10. Can I add whipped cream during cooking?

No—add whipped cream just before serving to keep the foam light and stable.

Conclusion

This Mocha Pumpkin Spice Latte brings together the rich decadence of chocolate and the warm, aromatic spice of pumpkin in a velvety latte form. With homemade syrup, espresso flavor, and luxurious toppings, it offers a café-level specialty drink right in your kitchen. Perfect for crisp fall mornings, cozy evenings, or festive gatherings.

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