Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
If you’ve ever found yourself craving that luxurious, creamy delight from Starbucks but want to enjoy it right at home, you are in for a treat. The Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe perfectly blends spicy chai tea with a dreamy pumpkin cold foam topping for a refreshingly autumn-inspired drink. It’s a wonderful way to bring cozy fall flavors into an iced beverage that’s both indulgent and light, making it the ideal pick-me-up during warmer fall days or whenever pumpkin spice fever strikes. Let’s dive into this simple yet spectacular recipe that has captured hearts everywhere.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and that gorgeous creamy finish. From rich pumpkin puree to the punch of chai tea concentrate, here’s what you’ll need to create this little cup of pumpkin magic.
- Heavy whipping cream: Provides the base for the luscious pumpkin cold foam, giving it a thick and fluffy texture.
- Whole milk: Adds just a touch of creaminess to the foam without overwhelming the pumpkin flavor.
- Canned pumpkin puree: Brings authentic pumpkin flavor and a velvety texture to the cold foam layer.
- Vanilla syrup: Sweetens the foam naturally while lifting the spices and pumpkin notes.
- Pumpkin pie spice: Adds that iconic warm spice blend, making every sip feel like fall in a glass.
- Milk of choice (such as 2%): The base liquid for the latte; feel free to use your favorite milk or milk alternative.
- Chai tea concentrate: The bold, spicy heart of the drink that balances the creaminess of the foam.
- Ice: The chill that makes this pumpkin cream chai latte refreshing and perfect for warmer days.
How to Make Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Cold Foam
The magic in this recipe really starts with the pumpkin cold foam. Combine the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, canned pumpkin puree, vanilla syrup, and pumpkin pie spice in a mason jar or tall glass. Using a milk frother, whip everything together until the mixture thickens and becomes fluffy—that sweet spot between creamy and light usually takes 10 to 20 seconds. This foam will top your iced chai later, delivering all the pumpkin goodness with every sip.
Step 2: Assemble the Iced Chai
Fill a serving glass with plenty of ice—this is what keeps your latte chilled and refreshing. Then pour in half a cup of your chosen milk followed by half a cup of chai tea concentrate. The chai concentrate is full of spices and tea flavor that bring warmth and complexity, playing nicely with the pumpkin foam. Together they create the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and cool.
Step 3: Add the Pumpkin Cold Foam
Gently spoon the freshly whipped pumpkin cold foam over the iced chai. This is where things start to look fancy and taste absolutely divine. The foam should sit gloriously on top, inviting you to take that first sip with a swirl of creamy pumpkin and warm chai spices.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Give your latte a gentle stir or leave it layered and watch the flavors mingle as you sip. That first creamy-chai sip is truly the highlight of this recipe. Enjoy the feeling of having crafted a cozy, seasonal beverage right in your own kitchen.
How to Serve Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider sprinkling a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon over the foam just before serving. A tiny drizzle of caramel sauce also works wonders for a luscious finish. These simple garnishes make your homemade latte feel café-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe with classic fall treats. Think warm pumpkin muffins, cinnamon sugar cookies, or even a spiced carrot cake slice. The warm spices in your drink complement baked goods beautifully, making your snack time a perfectly cozy celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your latte in a clear glass or mason jar for that Instagram-ready look showcasing the layered foam and chai. For a festive twist, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar or crushed graham crackers. Adding a reusable festive straw or a cinnamon stick is a charming way to invite friends to indulge along with you.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any pumpkin cold foam left, store it in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It will lose some of its frothiness but can still be spooned onto other drinks or desserts for a quick flavor boost.
Freezing
Because of the dairy and pumpkin puree, freezing this latte or the foam separately is not recommended as texture and flavor will be compromised. It’s best enjoyed fresh for the full creamy effect.
Reheating
This Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe is meant to be enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer it warm, you can heat the chai tea concentrate with milk on the stove and add warmed pumpkin cream on top, but it won’t have the same frothy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a milk alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk works wonderfully in this recipe and can be substituted for the dairy milk without sacrificing flavor.
Is canned pumpkin puree different from pumpkin pie filling?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree is plain cooked pumpkin and ideal for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar and can make the foam too sweet or overly spiced.
Where can I find chai tea concentrate?
Chai tea concentrate is commonly available in grocery stores near coffee or tea supplies. You can also make your own by brewing strong chai tea and concentrating it by reducing the liquid slightly.
How long can I keep the pumpkin cold foam fresh?
It’s best to use the pumpkin cold foam immediately after whipping. If stored in the fridge, it can last up to two days but will lose some volume and frothiness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based milk like oat or almond milk and substitute heavy cream with a coconut cream for the pumpkin foam. Just be sure to adjust sweetness as needed.
Final Thoughts
Making the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy that iconic fall flavor anytime you want, but you also get to personalize it to your taste and dietary preferences. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious treat that’s sure to become your new favorite pick-me-up. So grab your frother, pumpkin puree, and chai concentrate, and let’s make some magic in a glass!
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Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Starbucks-inspired Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte combines spicy chai tea concentrate with a rich, creamy pumpkin cold foam topping. Perfectly balanced and refreshing, this easy-to-make iced latte is ideal for enjoying the flavors of pumpkin spice without leaving your home.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Cold Foam
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
For the Latte
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (such as 2% milk)
- 1/2 cup chai tea concentrate
- Ice, as needed
Instructions
- Make the Pumpkin Cold Foam: In a mason jar or glass, combine the heavy whipping cream, whole milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Use a milk frother to whip the mixture for about 10-20 seconds until it becomes thick, fluffy, and well-combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Iced Chai: Fill a serving glass with ice to your desired level. Pour in the 1/2 cup milk of choice followed by 1/2 cup chai tea concentrate.
- Add the Pumpkin Cold Foam: Generously spoon the prepared pumpkin cold foam over the top of the iced chai latte, creating a creamy pumpkin layer.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stir gently if desired, then sip and enjoy your homemade iced pumpkin cream chai tea latte.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of vanilla syrup.
- Use any milk substitute you prefer for a dairy-free option.
- Pumpkin pie spice can be substituted with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if unavailable.
- For best results, use a chilled chai tea concentrate.
- This recipe serves one but can be easily scaled up.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
