Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte Recipe Perfect for Fall

Posted on November 13, 2025

pumpkin cream chai latte - featured image

The warmth of spices, the creaminess of pumpkin, and the soothing notes of chai—this Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte feels like a hug in a mug. Imagine curling up by the fire, the crisp air outside, and sipping on a drink that tastes like fall itself. This recipe has been a staple in my home for years, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

I first made this during a chilly autumn afternoon when I was craving something comforting but also festive. You know, that perfect balance between seasonal flavors and everyday indulgence? The result was a creamy, spiced drink that has since become my go-to fall treat. Whether you’re a chai tea lover or just looking to mix up your usual pumpkin spice routine, this is the recipe for you.

Using simple ingredients and a touch of creativity, this Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is easy to whip up in minutes. No fancy equipment or barista skills needed! Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought drinks, and you can customize it to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into what makes this latte so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or cozy evenings.
Simple Ingredients: Basic pantry items like pumpkin puree and spices are all you need.
Perfect for Fall: The ultimate autumn drink—great for sipping while watching the leaves change or hosting a seasonal brunch.
Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with everyone, from kids to chai tea enthusiasts.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of creamy pumpkin and warm chai spices is pure magic.

This isn’t your average pumpkin latte. It’s richer, more flavorful, and has a cozy homemade touch that makes it stand out. The pumpkin cream adds depth and a velvety texture, while the chai spices bring warmth and complexity. It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to wrap yourself in a blanket and savor every sip.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a cozy and flavorful drink. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chai tea bags: Choose your favorite brand. I love using a spiced chai blend for extra flavor.
Whole milk: Provides creaminess. You can use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Heavy cream: Helps create the luscious pumpkin cream topping. (Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.)
Pumpkin puree: Go for pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Homemade works too!
Pumpkin pie spice: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves adds that signature fall flavor.
Vanilla extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile.
Maple syrup: For natural sweetness. You can substitute with honey or agave syrup if you prefer.
Optional whipped cream: For serving, because why not make it extra indulgent?

These ingredients are easy to find, and you may already have most of them in your pantry. Feel free to make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte, but here are the essentials:

Small saucepan: For heating the milk and chai tea.
Whisk: To mix the pumpkin cream topping smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key for perfect flavor balance.
Mug: A large, cozy mug to enjoy your latte.

If you don’t have a whisk, a fork works just fine in a pinch. Also, if you’re making a bigger batch, you can use a blender to whip up the pumpkin cream quickly.

Detailed Preparation Method

Brew the chai tea: Heat 1 cup (240 ml) of water in a saucepan until simmering. Add 2 chai tea bags and steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and set the chai aside.
Prepare the pumpkin cream: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, 2 tbsp (30 g) pumpkin puree, 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, and 1 tbsp (15 ml) maple syrup until smooth and slightly thickened.
Heat the milk: Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of whole milk into the same saucepan used for the chai tea. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming but not boiling. Stir in 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract.
Combine the tea and milk: Pour the brewed chai tea into the steamed milk, stirring to combine. Adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired.
Assemble the latte: Pour the chai tea and milk mixture into a large mug. Spoon the pumpkin cream on top as a frothy layer.
Optional garnish: Add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for extra flair.
Serve and enjoy: Sip slowly and savor the cozy flavors of fall!

This recipe makes one serving, but you can easily double or triple the quantities if you’re sharing with friends or family.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To make sure your Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips:

Don’t boil the milk: Heat it gently to avoid scorching or forming a skin on the surface.
Choose quality chai tea: The tea is the foundation of this drink, so opt for a flavorful blend with robust spices.
Use chilled cream: Cold cream whips up better when making the pumpkin cream topping.
Adjust the sweetness: Everyone has different preferences, so taste as you go when adding maple syrup.
Get creative with toppings: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or even a dusting of cocoa powder for extra pizzazz.

Making this latte is straightforward, but little details like using fresh spices and properly steeping the tea can take it to the next level!

Variations & Adaptations

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

Dairy-Free Version: Swap the milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk and use coconut cream for the topping.
Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra ginger to the pumpkin cream for a spicy kick.
Decaf Option: Use decaffeinated chai tea for a soothing evening drink.
Frozen Version: Blend the milk, chai, and pumpkin cream with ice for a refreshing pumpkin chai frappe.
Custom Sweeteners: Substitute maple syrup with honey, agave, or brown sugar based on your preference.

I once added a dash of cardamom to the pumpkin cream, and it gave the latte a slightly floral note that was absolutely delightful!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is best served hot and fresh. Pour it into a large mug, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

Serving ideas: Pair it with a slice of pumpkin bread or some ginger cookies for an extra festive treat.
Storage: If you have leftover chai tea, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating tips: Keep the pumpkin cream separate and add it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Flavor development: The spices tend to deepen in flavor as the chai tea sits, so don’t hesitate to save some for later if you want a stronger taste.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is not just delicious—it’s packed with wholesome ingredients:

Calories: Approximately 190 per serving (depending on ingredients used).
Key nutrients: Vitamin A from pumpkin, calcium from milk, and antioxidants from the spices.
Dietary considerations: Gluten-free by default, with easy dairy-free adaptations.
Allergens: Contains dairy; substitute with plant-based options if needed.

As someone who loves indulging in seasonal treats, I appreciate that this recipe offers a healthier take without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction!

Conclusion

If you’ve been searching for the perfect fall drink, this Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte is it. It’s easy to make, customizable, and tastes like autumn in a mug. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice fanatic or a chai tea enthusiast, this recipe combines the best of both worlds.

One of the things I love most about this latte is how versatile it is. You can tweak the spices, adjust the sweetness, and even make it dairy-free—all while keeping that cozy, comforting vibe intact. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends or family during the fall season!

So grab your favorite mug, whip up this recipe, and let me know how it turned out for you. Share your thoughts, tag me in your photos, and let’s celebrate the season together. Happy sipping!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pumpkin spice mix?

Absolutely! If you don’t have individual spices, a pre-made pumpkin spice mix works perfectly.

Can I make this latte vegan?

Yes! Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk, and swap heavy cream for coconut cream.

How can I make this latte sweeter?

Increase the amount of maple syrup or try other sweeteners like honey, agave, or even flavored syrups.

Can I use loose-leaf chai tea instead of tea bags?

Yes, just brew the loose-leaf tea according to the package instructions before adding it to the milk.

How do I store leftover pumpkin puree?

Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.

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