Pumpkin Spice Latte

Pumpkin spice latte is the fall drink we love (or sometimes just love to hate). Made famous by that mega chain of coffee worship we all know, it's the harbinger of all things autumn. Some people dread its seasonal arrival, but hundreds of thousands line up for it every fall.

Originally developed in early 2003—before the pumpkin spice-everything craze had begun—the first version of this drink contained spices, but no actual pumpkin. It was a huge success, leading to many other pumpkin spice-flavored foods and beverages. By 2015, the recipe was changed to include actual pumpkin puree as an ingredient.

Regular coffee consists of grounds filtered through water, but a latte contains steamed milk. In the case of pumpkin spice latte, the coffee is actually hot espresso mixed with milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla, and warming fall spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove. It's topped with sweet whipped cream and a light dusting of more spice.

The overwhelming popularity of the PSL has meant that its appearance at the famous coffee chain begins earlier and earlier each season. In fact, it's being served at the end of August, far ahead of regular pumpkin season. For those who are not ready to face all things pumpkin so early, that might not be good news. But for the far larger majority who eagerly await the drink each year, there's even better news: the pumpkin spice latte is actually quite easy to make at home at a far more affordable price. Nor will you be at the mercy of the store's launch schedule.

A few simple, pantry staples added to your regular morning coffee can turn a regular pot of Joe into the beloved seasonal pumpkin creation anytime you want.