Pumpkin Spice Simple Syrup Recipe Easy Fall Favorite

Posted on November 13, 2025

pumpkin spice simple syrup - featured image

The warm aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves wafting through the air is the ultimate sign that fall has arrived. This homemade pumpkin spice simple syrup is everything you love about autumn wrapped up in one delicious recipe. Whether you’re crafting a cozy latte, sprucing up a cocktail, or adding a drizzle to dessert, this syrup is the perfect balance of sweet and spice. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make and keeps well, so you can enjoy fall flavors all season long.

I first started making pumpkin spice simple syrup during one particularly crisp October when I was craving all things autumn, but didn’t want to splurge on a fancy coffee shop drink. After a few trial runs, I found the perfect mix of spices and sweetness to complement my favorite teas, coffees, and even pancakes. Now, I keep a jar of this golden goodness in my fridge at all times—it’s a must-have for anyone who loves fall flavors as much as I do.

If you’re ready to add a touch of pumpkin spice magic to your favorite beverages, then this recipe is for you. Let’s dive right into the cozy world of pumpkin spice simple syrup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: You only need a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Budget-Friendly: Skip the overpriced café syrups and enjoy the same comforting flavors without breaking the bank.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste—you’re in control!
Versatile: Perfect for coffee, tea, cocktails, or even drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or yogurt.
Perfect for Gifting: Pour it into a cute bottle, tie a ribbon around the neck, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift.

What sets this pumpkin spice simple syrup apart is the way the spices blend harmoniously with real pumpkin puree. Unlike store-bought versions that rely on artificial flavors, this syrup is made with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. Plus, it’s that little touch of autumn that makes chilly mornings and cozy evenings so much better.

This isn’t just a syrup—it’s a seasonal ritual, a flavor enhancer, and a reminder that life’s simplest pleasures (like a warm spiced drink) are worth savoring.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This pumpkin spice simple syrup recipe uses a mix of pantry staples and seasonal favorites to create a perfectly spiced, sweet syrup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Water: The base of every simple syrup—you’ll need 1 cup.
Granulated Sugar: A cup of sugar is the sweetener that gives the syrup its classic consistency.
Pumpkin Puree: Use 2 tablespoons of real pumpkin puree for authentic flavor. (Avoid pumpkin pie filling—it’s too sweet and pre-spiced.)
Cinnamon Sticks: Two whole sticks infuse the syrup with warm, spicy notes.
Ground Nutmeg: Just 1/4 teaspoon adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Ground Cloves: A pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon) goes a long way in bringing out the cozy autumnal vibe.
Vanilla Extract: Add 1 teaspoon at the end for a smooth, aromatic finish.

If you love experimenting, you can try adding a dash of ground ginger or allspice to the mix for extra complexity. And for the sugar, you can substitute brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy gadgets to make this pumpkin spice simple syrup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Medium Saucepan: Essential for simmering the syrup.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pan.
Fine-Mesh Strainer: To strain out the cinnamon sticks and any pumpkin solids for a smooth finish.
Glass Jar or Bottle: Store your syrup in an airtight container. Mason jars or swing-top bottles work great.

If you don’t have a strainer, you can use cheesecloth or even a clean coffee filter for straining. And for storage, repurpose an old glass bottle for a rustic, eco-friendly touch!

Preparation Method

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
Add 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally and watch for the syrup to slightly thicken.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Let the syrup cool for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once cooled, pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean jar or bottle to remove any solids. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

As you simmer the syrup, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of pumpkin spice—it’s almost as good as the syrup itself!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to ensure your pumpkin spice simple syrup turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t Over-Simmer: Too much heat can make the syrup overly thick or cause the sugar to caramelize. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground nutmeg and high-quality cinnamon sticks will elevate the flavor of your syrup.
Strain Thoroughly: Don’t skip this step! It guarantees a smooth syrup without any gritty pumpkin residue.
Adjust to Taste: If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, you can add an extra dash of nutmeg or cloves.
Double the Recipe: This syrup is so good, you’ll want extra on hand! Simply double the ingredients and enjoy it longer.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to adapt this recipe:

Dairy-Free Option: Add a splash of dairy-free milk to your drinks along with the syrup for a creamy twist.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that pairs surprisingly well with the warm spices.
Low-Calorie Version: Swap the granulated sugar for a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Holiday Flair: Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a festive citrus note.
Gingerbread Twist: Add a touch of ground ginger for a spicy, holiday-inspired flavor.

Personally, I love adding a dash of cardamom when I’m feeling adventurous—it’s an unexpected spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin and vanilla.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This pumpkin spice simple syrup is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to serve and store it:

Serving: Add 1–2 tablespoons to your coffee, tea, or lattes for a cozy fall drink. It’s also fantastic in cocktails like an autumn margarita or whiskey sour.
Presentation: Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or even oatmeal for a sweet, spicy twist.
Storage: Keep your syrup in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: If your syrup thickens in the fridge, warm it gently in the microwave or place the jar in a bowl of warm water.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen as the syrup sits, so it’s even better after a day or two in the fridge!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This pumpkin spice simple syrup offers more than just delicious flavor—it’s made with real, wholesome ingredients:

Calories: Approximately 50 calories per tablespoon.
Health Benefits: Pumpkin puree is rich in vitamins A and C, while cinnamon and nutmeg have antioxidant properties.
Dietary Notes: Gluten-free and dairy-free.
Potential Allergens: None—just be sure to check individual ingredients for cross-contamination if you have sensitivities.

While this syrup is sweetened with sugar, the use of real pumpkin and spices makes it a slightly better option than store-bought alternatives packed with artificial flavors.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a simple way to bring fall flavors into your life, this pumpkin spice simple syrup is a game-changer. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and tastes like autumn in a jar. From cozy lattes to festive cocktails, this syrup will elevate every sip and drizzle with its warm, spiced goodness.

Personally, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. I love how it fills my home with the scents of fall and makes even the simplest drink feel special. Plus, it’s so fun to tweak the spices to match my mood—some days I’m all about the cinnamon, and other days I want that bold nutmeg kick!

Give it a try and let me know how you use it! Whether you drizzle it, stir it, or gift it, I’d love to hear your creative ideas in the comments below. Happy fall!

FAQs

How long does pumpkin spice simple syrup last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Absolutely! Brown sugar will add a deeper, caramel-like flavor to the syrup.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this syrup without pumpkin puree?

You can omit the pumpkin puree, but it will lose some of its seasonal flair. Consider adding extra spices to compensate.

What drinks can I use this syrup in?

It’s perfect for coffee, tea, lattes, hot chocolate, cocktails, and even sparkling water for a fall-themed mocktail!

Pin This Recipe!