The Ultimate Autumn Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

 Better ‘latte’ than never

The autumn season is nearing its end and Christmas is fast approaching (got that mulled wine recipe ready mama?). However, I for one am not ready to let go of one of autumn’s most sought after flavours… pumpkin spice.

It’s easy to see why the world is obsessed with Starbucks’ pumpkin spice latte. It does taste like autumn. Rich, creamy and with a warm spiciness, it reminds me of long walks in the park and lazy Sunday afternoons. As this favourite (which is not available all year round) is a very rare find in Hong Kong, I felt like I needed a homemade version.

This easy recipe will give mama’s all over Hong Kong the chance to treat themselves without spending a load. Moreover, it is all natural with no hidden chemicals so it might actually be good for you, pumpkin is a vegetable after all! So, invite the girls over for a morning cuppa or spend some quality alone time indulging in a cup of pumpkin spiced goodness.

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte (makes 2 mugs)

• 2 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons pumpkin purée (recipe to follow)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons condensed milk
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• a pinch of ground cloves
• 1 cup strong, black coffee (filter coffee)
• Whipped cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Add milk, pumpkin purée, and sugar to a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat until scalding taking care not to boil the milk.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the vanilla, condensed milk and all the spices (keep a little for garnish if you want).
3. Stir well to disperse the spices and dissolve the condensed milk, then strain the mixture through a sieve or muslin cloth
4. Divide the mixture between two mugs and top off with strong black coffee. If you’re a fan of a whip top, add whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

Pumpkin Purée

The pumpkin purée can be made in one of two ways: The easiest way is to simply boil or steam the pumpkin and mash it with a fork until very fine. For a more caramel-like and rich latte add one tablespoon of butter and one tablespoon of sugar to a small sauce pan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to turn light brown before adding the pumpkin, lower the heat and cover. Cook the pumpkin like this for about 10-15 minutes. When the pumpkin is cooked puree with a fork until fine.

So mama here is a drink that say’s “I love you a latte!” Pumpkin, spice and everything nice that is what dreams are made of!