22 PSL-Inspired Recipes Even Better Than the Real Thing (2024)

We’ve triple checked our planners, set our alarms (#stealthmode) and readied our mugs for Tuesday September 8 (aka #PSL release day!). Though it took forever for the latte to be made with actual pumpkin (cough cough, Mr. Schultz!), we still have a warm place in our hearts for the seasonal latte. It’s essentially the unofficial start of cozierwardrobes, rainbow trees and everything fall. While we wait for this delicious drink to hit the coffeeshops, we’re bringing you the 22 best pumpkin spice latte-inspired recipes from around the Interwebs. So bake ’em or make ’em, then sit back and let the fall vibes surround you.

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes: Possibly one of the only things that can rival our latte addiction is our sweet tooth. Luckily, this insanely decadent cupcake combines the best of both our loves in the prettiest, most bite-sized way. These would make such a sweet surprise to bring to any fall get-together. (via Brown Eyed Baker)

2. Spiced Pumpkin Macaroons: Not sure about you, but we’re still not over this macaron trend that’s been happening the past few years. Though these aren’t considered an entirely simple recipe, once you get the hang of baking this little cookie, they’re great little treats to eat or gift. (via Bakers Royale)

3. Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts: You know what goes great with that early morning latte? A #PSL-inspired donut. (via A Happy Food Dance)

4. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookie: For anyone who might be a bit overwhelmed (or underwhelmed) by the whole pumpkin spice latte thing, this treat might be the ideal dip into the PSL waters. Striking a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, these cookies could replace your go-to chocolate chip recipe, even if only for this September. (via Cleverly Inspired)

5. Skinny Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino: We prefer to live in denial of how many calories are packed into the average pumpkin spice latte, so that’s why we’re obsessing over this “skinny” version. (via Live Well Bake Often)

6. Homemade Pumpkin Chai Latte: Combining the benefits of chai tea with the delicious autumn flavors of pumpkin, this might be our new fave at-home drink. (via Cookie + Kate)

7. Pumpkin Spice Latte Jello Shots: Bringing a bit of your morning routine into your evening festivities, these little shots are a great adult way to sample the #PSL. Plus, they’re mini guarantees that you’ll be the hit of any party or tailgate. (via That’s So Michelle)

8. Pumpkin Spice Marshmallows: After sampling this homemade goodness — which is made with pumpkin spice syrup — it will be hard not to barge into any Starbucks and demand they immediately add marshmallows to your drink. However, if they refuse, this marshmallow recipe is accompanied by a DIY PSL recipe too. (via A Simple Pantry)

9. Pumpkin Spiced Apple Pie: So there are apples in this pie, which makes it healthy, right? Either way, this eight-ingredient slice of heaven is a great way to kick off a season of baking. (via Minimalist Baker)

10. Pumpkin Spice Latte Ice Cream: Since it hasn’t gotten too cold out yet, this recipe makes the perfect transitional treat. It’s a taste of pumpkin in an after-dinner dessert that is slightly reminiscent of summer. (via The Simple Sweet Life)

11. Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars: Made with coconut, oats and pumpkin seeds, these little bars are both sweet and satisfying. They’ll make great snacks to pack for an end-of-summer getaway. (via Fork Knife Swoon)

12. Skinny Pumpkin Pie Milkshake: For any little kiddos who might want to try the PSL madness without all that caffeine madness, this sweet treat is a great compromise. Add a few sprinkles on top, and you’re in business. (via Gimme Some Oven)

13. Pumpkin Spice Latte Pancakes: Forget your coffee or smoothie, ’cause these pancakes are made with a touch of espresso and a bit of flax seed to keep you satisfied all morning. (via Food EaseTV)

14. Pumpkin Spice Latte Muffins: Made with quite a bit of brown sugar, these muffins are not all that healthy, but they sure are delicious. (via PopSugar)

15. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake: One of the best things about fall? Slow cooker season. Start early by making this moist, healthy-ish pumpkin spice latte-inspired cake. (via Skinny Ms)

16. Pumpkin Spice Latte Quinoa: We haven’t given up on this power grain and its benefits yet. If we’re being honest, this recipe (which, beyond quinoa, boasts super good-for-you ingredients like coconut oil and and pumpkin) is a big reason why. (via Healthful Pursuit)

17. Iced Pumpkin Spice Lattes (Vegan & Gluten-Free): Just because you have dietary restrictions doesn’t mean you have to be left out of all the fun. It only requires almond milk, cinnamon, espresso, maple syrup and pumpkin — a drink doesn’t get much cleaner or more simple than that. (via The Pig & Quill)

18. Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Fudge: This dessert is super easy to make but really lets the pumpkin flavors sing. (via Miss Candiquik)

19. Pumpkin Spice Latte Nutella Muffins (Grain-Free and Dairy-Free): This muffin is essentially our spirit animal. Not only does it hit on our healthy list (grain- and dairy-free!), but it also adds Nutella to an already incredible pumpkin spice latte muffin. SO much fall goodness. (via Texanerin Baking)

20. Banana Pumpkin Spice Milkshakes: With how amazing banana “ice cream” is, we’re not surprised this shake tastes heavenly. Made of a blend of just seven ingredients, including yogurt, pumpkin and banana, this milkshake is more healthy than indulgent. (via Whole & Heavenly Oven)

21. Pumpkin Latte-Flavored Granola: This versatile mixture is a tasty, satisfying breakfast when paired with yogurt or almond milk, but also makes a sweet + unique gift. (via She Knows)

22. Pumpkin Spice Latte Protein Pancakes: With these delicious protein pancakes, you’ll kick butt at the gym, but still feel like you treated yourself. (via Now You’re Cookin’)

How are you celebrating #PSL release day? Share in the comments below!

Nicole Jahns

Nicole is a writer, artist and major dog enthusiast eating her way through Chicago, IL. When she’s not getting her “om” on, she’s sharing recipes and DIYs on her blog, Midwest Love Fest.

22 PSL-Inspired Recipes Even Better Than the Real Thing (2024)

FAQs

Why is PSL so popular? ›

Some think it relates way back to our colony days where pumpkins were one of the only crops the settlers could sustain and so, subconsciously, pumpkin reminds us of our roots. Others believe that the seasonal appeal of the pumpkin-flavor is what creates the allure.

What does Starbucks put in their pumpkin spice latte? ›

But the Starbucks version continues to be a popular choice, with a recipe that makes so many fall lovers giddy with every sip. A Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte is made with milk, their pumpkin spice sauce, brewed espresso, whipped cream and a pumpkin spice topping that consists of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves.

What does PSL mean pumpkin spice? ›

Pumpkin Spice Latte was first introduced as a test in just 100 stores in Washington, D.C. and Vancouver, Canada. PSL gets its nickname from the three-letter beverage code originally written on cups by baristas. Since 2015, PSL's pumpkin sauce has included real pumpkin puree, made from little kabocha pumpkins.

What is in PSL? ›

The Pumpkin Spice Latte is a coffee drink made with a mix of traditional fall spice flavors (cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove), steamed milk, espresso, and often sugar, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice.

Why is pumpkin spice so addictive? ›

Scarcity, flavor, and nostalgia equal obsession.

People's obsession with pumpkin spice is an intriguing psychological occurrence. The taste of pumpkin spice may be desirable due to its scarcity, as it's only available during the fall. In addition to flavor and taste, pumpkin spice can also create nostalgia.

Who started the pumpkin spice trend? ›

While it's unclear who the first person was to add pumpkin spice into a latte (the idea to combine the two likely wasn't a Starbucks invention), the Starbucks employee credited with bringing the idea to the company is Peter Dukes, then the director of espresso, whose team created other seasonal drinks like the eggnog ...

How much caffeine is in PSL? ›

This is where you get that energetic buzz. There's roughly 75 milligrams of caffeine in a tall PSL, comparable to half a cup of coffee or two cups of black tea. Want to know how to get the most energy out of your drink? We broke down the best sources of caffeine here.

Does Starbucks use real pumpkin spice? ›

Made with real (and adorable) pumpkins

Since 2015, PSL's pumpkin sauce includes real puree made from sweet little pumpkins.

What Starbucks drink tastes like pumpkin spice? ›

Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte: Starbucks Coffee Company.

Does PSL have whipped cream? ›

You can ask the barista to omit the whipped cream and the pumpkin spice topping and enjoy a healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte without extra sugar getting in the way.

Why does Starbucks PSL taste different? ›

Why does the Starbucks PSL taste different? 2015 was a year of transformation for Starbucks' pumpkin spice latte when the company responded to health-conscious fans who had called for the removal of artificial caramel coloring. It was also the year that real pumpkin puree was added.

Does PSL have vanilla? ›

A grande packs 250 calories and 31 grams of sugar—much of it added sugar. (There's not much milk...or protein.) Blame its sugary pumpkin cream cold foam plus vanilla syrup.

How much does a PSL cost at Starbucks? ›

This year, depending on your location, a standard version of its 16-ounce PSL will run you about $5.95 before tax, about 50 cents more than it went for in 2022, per a report from The Krazy Coupon Lady.

Is there caffeine in Starbucks PSL? ›

For this we will go straight to the source, Starbucks. For comparisons sake, we will choose the Short Pumpkin Spice Latte, which is 8oz, contains 210 calories, 27 grams of sugar and 75 mg of caffeine. This is in comparison to other flavored lattes that have an average of 134 calories and 63 mg of caffeine.

Is there milk in PSL? ›

Are Pumpkin Spice Lattes Vegan? A standard PSL from your local coffee shop is typically high in sugar and fat, and contains dairy. At some shops you can have your barista substitute in plant-based products like Nut Milks.

Why is Starbucks PSL so popular? ›

A pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks, thankfully, is just as much about the seasoning as it is about the beloved gourd. According to a research study by Johns Hopkins University scientists, people equate the traditional PSL aromas — cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger — with feelings of nostalgia.

Why is pumpkin spice flavor so popular? ›

So why do we love this particular flavor so much? Turns out, we love to be reminded of fall and the warm feelings of family, home and nostalgia the season brings — and our brains associate those warm feelings with this particular flavor, psychologists and researchers say.

What is the hype behind Pumpkin Spice Latte? ›

The pumpkin spice boom and its subsequent enduring enthusiasm by fanatics everywhere is the result of a heady combination of several contributing factors, including nostalgia, powerful spices and flavoring, supply-and-demand scarcity, and an olfactory overload.

Is PSL more popular than IPL? ›

IPL has more fans and interest, at least as of now, and likely to stay that way. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the Indian Premier League (IPL) was more popular than the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in India. However, cricket popularity can be subjective and may change over time.

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