SYRUPSPumpkin Spice Syrup
The quick answer
Pumpkin spice syrup uses a 1:1 sugar-to-water ratio plus real pumpkin puree and spices. Combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice blend. Heat until dissolved, strain, and cool. Yields about 1.5 cups.
Pumpkin spice season should not start and end at Starbucks. This syrup lets you make a pumpkin spice latte any time of year, for about $0.40 a batch.
Real pumpkin puree is the ingredient that separates a great PSL syrup from a mediocre one. A tablespoon or two adds genuine pumpkin flavor and a slight body to the syrup that you can actually taste and feel in the drink.
The spice blend matters too. Pre-made pumpkin spice blends are fine, but a custom mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a touch of cloves lets you adjust the balance. More cinnamon for warmth, more ginger for a slight bite.
Straining the syrup through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth before bottling removes the pumpkin solids and spice grit. This step is worth doing: a smooth syrup incorporates better into cold milk and iced drinks.
Dial it in before you make it
Balance sugar and water for a syrup that pours like the bottled stuff.
| Measurement | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pumps | 3 |
| Tablespoons | 1.5 tbsp |
| Volume | 22.5 mL |
| Approx. calories (regular syrup) | ~60 cal |
Sugar-free syrup ≈ 0 calories. 1 pump ≈ 0.25 fl oz / 7.5 mL / 0.5 tbsp / ~20 cal. Based on standard cafe pump chart.
Make it
Makes 1 .5 cup
Ingredients
Steps
We make this every September and often forget to stop in December. Having a jar ready means a pumpkin spice latte is 90 seconds away, and the flavor is more rounded and less sweet than the Starbucks version.
Pro tips
- Strain well to remove pumpkin solids, as a cloudy syrup can settle unevenly in cold drinks.
- Shelf life is 2 weeks refrigerated because of the pumpkin puree.
- Freeze the syrup in ice cube trays for longer storage, up to 3 months.
- Use 2 tablespoons per 12-ounce latte for a balanced pumpkin spice flavor.
- Add a pinch of black pepper to the spice blend for an unexpected warmth.
Frequently asked questions
Does pumpkin spice syrup have real pumpkin in it?
The homemade version does. Commercial pumpkin spice syrups, including the one Starbucks used for years, often did not contain any real pumpkin. Adding 2 tablespoons of canned pumpkin puree to homemade syrup gives genuine pumpkin flavor and a slightly richer texture.
How long does pumpkin spice syrup last in the fridge?
Because it contains pumpkin puree, this syrup has a shorter shelf life than plain simple syrup. Expect 10-14 days refrigerated. Freeze extra batches in ice cube trays for up to 3 months.
Can I make pumpkin spice syrup without pumpkin puree?
Yes. Omit the pumpkin puree and use only the spice blend. The result is a spiced simple syrup that still tastes like pumpkin spice, just without the genuine pumpkin flavor. This version also lasts longer, about 3-4 weeks refrigerated.
What spices go in pumpkin spice syrup?
The classic blend is cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and sometimes allspice. Cinnamon is typically the dominant spice. Pre-made pumpkin pie spice works well, or you can blend your own to adjust the balance to your taste.
Can I use pumpkin spice syrup in iced coffee?
Absolutely. It works well in iced lattes, cold brew, and even iced chai. Use 1-2 tablespoons per drink and stir well before adding ice and milk. The syrup is also great in a warm oat milk latte on a cold morning.
