4 Ways to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte Substitute in 5 Minutes

Use Kaurina's snack-size kulfi bars as a coffee stirrer for an easy, low-calorie latte.

Pumpkin spice, well, everything is an autumnal tradition that captures the warmth and wonder of the holiday season. Critics recently blasted the beloved treats for lacking a vital ingredient—pumpkin. On the surface, it seems like a fair criticism since the photogenic fruit hogs the spotlight. But pumpkin spice fans know it’s the rich blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves that create the distinctive flavor.

It is easy to make a pumpkin spice latte base with real pumpkin puree at home, but the process takes a bit of time since the pumpkin needs to be simmered and blended to create a smooth consistency. Try one of these fast DIY alternatives to expand your drink options and get your pumpkin spice latte fix. If the indoor heating system is working overtime, add ice and a straw for a sippable treat. If your prefer your coffee piping hot, let the frozen stir-ins melt before using.

Photo: Bill Bradford via Flickr

Torani’s Pumpkin Spice Syrup has rave reviews. To make a traditional pumpkin spice latte, steam two tablespoons of syrup with one cup of milk and combine with two shots of espresso.

A nice shot of pumpkin pie spice can turn a homemade latte into a decadent treat without the hefty price tag or calorie bomb. Sweeten with brown sugar.

Screengrab: Braum's Pumpkin Ice Cream

Braum’s Pumpkin Ice Cream makes a quick DIY latte. (Ben & Jerry’s Pumpkin Cheesecake Ice Cream looks like a tasty alternative, but you’ll have to scoop around the graham cracker swirl.) Add a small scoop of ice cream to a mug of strong coffee. Enjoy these seasonal treats while you can because they are available for a limited time.

Malai has an intense pop of cardamom.

After trying Kaurina’s Malai Ice Cream this summer, I started adding a bit to my coffee because the spicy cardamom and sweet cream flavors reminded me of a pumpkin spice latte. The company recently sent me a complimentary variety box of Kaurina’s Kulfi. At only 80 calories each, the snack-size bars make flavorful, satiating treats, but they are even better as coffee stirrers. (The brief ingredient list includes half and half, cane sugar, cornstarch, and fresh ground cardamom.)

Shopping Sources
Although some local grocers carry Torani, the best selection is available at the company's online store. 

Pumpkin pie spice is readily available at most supermarkets. If you aren't a devoted fan, try a small jar to ensure it stays fresh.

Visit Braum's to buy its seasonal ice cream.

According to Ben & Jerry's flavor locator, select Walmart locations are the best source for its Pumpkin Cheesecake Ice Cream.

Shop at select HEB and Fiesta locations for Kaurina’s products or head to Costco for a 12-count party pack of snack bars. If delivery is more your style, check out Artizone.

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