Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Syrup

This cozy homemade Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup brings the essence of fall right into your kitchen. It transforms everyday coffee, lattes, tea, and even desserts with warm spices and real pumpkin, perfect for those crisp autumn mornings or anytime you want a comforting seasonal treat.

I first made this syrup when I was craving pumpkin spice but didn’t want to buy the bottled kind. Now I keep a jar in the fridge all fall long and love how it elevates even plain coffee

Ingredients

• Water: one cup creates the syrup base for dissolving sugar and blending spices
• Brown sugar: one cup adds sweetness and caramel notes but can be swapped for monkfruit for a sugarfree version
• Pumpkin purée: two tablespoons gives the syrup its authentic seasonal pumpkin flavor avoid pie filling as it contains extra sugars and spices
• Cinnamon: one teaspoon essential for that warm, cozy spice note choose Ceylon cinnamon if possible for a milder taste
• Ground ginger: half teaspoon adds a subtle spicy warmth use fresh ground for best aroma
• Nutmeg: quarter teaspoon brings a nutty sweetness complements pumpkin and cinnamon
• Ground cloves: quarter teaspoon offers a deep spicy undertone use sparingly for balance
• Vanilla extract: one teaspoon rounds out the flavors with soft floral notes opt for pure vanilla extract for best results

Instructions

Simmer sugar and water:

Combine one cup of water and one cup of brown sugar in a small saucepan set over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves dissolving sugar first creates a smooth syrup base without graininess

Bloom the spices:

Add cinnamon ground ginger nutmeg and cloves to the saucepan Stir these spices in and let them bloom for two to three minutes This helps release their essential oils and deepens the flavor making the syrup fragrant and rich

Incorporate pumpkin and vanilla:

Whisk in two tablespoons of pumpkin purée and one teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined The pumpkin adds color and body while vanilla adds a sweet floral background note keeping the syrup balanced

Simmer until thickened:

Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for five to seven minutes stirring occasionally This thickens the syrup to the perfect consistency so it coats your spoon without being sticky or overly thick

Cool and strain:

Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool completely Strain through a fine mesh sieve if you want a smoother texture free from any pumpkin bits This step is especially helpful if you plan to use the syrup in iced drinks

Store in a jar:

Pour the cooled syrup into a clean airtight glass container or bottle Store it in the refrigerator where it will keep fresh for up to two weeks Shake well before using because natural separation can occur

I still remember the first time I drizzled this syrup over pancakes and it felt like a warm autumn hug on a plate

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to keep it fresh and flavorful For longer storage freeze the syrup in ice cube trays then transfer the cubes to a freezer safe bag You can add frozen syrup cubes directly to hot coffee or tea and stir to dissolve more easily

Ingredient Substitutions

Brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar maple syrup or monkfruit sweetener depending on dietary preferences Maple syrup will add a deeper flavor while monkfruit keeps it sugarfree Using pumpkin purée is key so do not substitute with canned pumpkin pie filling

Serving Suggestions

Stir a tablespoon or two into your morning coffee latte or chai tea for a seasonal twist Drizzle over oatmeal pancakes waffles yogurt or vanilla ice cream for an extra cozy meal or dessert You can even add it to milk for a pumpkin spice flavored milkshake

Keep a jar in the fridge to brighten coffees and desserts all season. Shake well before using to recombine any separation.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What ingredients create the pumpkin spice flavor?

The flavor comes from pumpkin purée combined with cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, which blend to provide warm, aromatic notes typical of fall spices.

→ Can I use alternatives to brown sugar?

Yes, alternatives like monkfruit or maple syrup can be used to adjust sweetness or make the syrup sugar-free while maintaining its rich taste.

→ How should the syrup be stored?

Store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake well before each use as natural separation may occur.

→ Is it necessary to strain the syrup?

Straining is optional but recommended for a smoother texture, especially if using the syrup in cold drinks to avoid pulp or spice bits.

→ Can I freeze the pumpkin spice syrup?

Yes, freezing in ice cube trays is an excellent way to portion and preserve the syrup for longer-term use.