If there’s one thing that makes fall mornings feel magical, it’s sipping on a frosty glass of pumpkin spice cold brew. Forget the long drive-thru lines and the extra dollars spent—this Starbucks-inspired version takes just 5 minutes at home with only 5 ingredients. As a mom of three, I can tell you: any recipe that’s quick, comforting, and saves me from wrestling kids into the car for coffee is a keeper.
So grab that blender, because this is about to become your go-to fall coffee ritual.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew
- Fast & fuss-free: 5 minutes, and you’re sipping.
- Customizable: Dairy-free? Sugar-free? Easy swaps.
- Budget-friendly: Save that $6 and treat yourself later (maybe pumpkin scones?).
- Tastes like fall in a glass: Creamy, spiced, and oh-so-satisfying.
What Does Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Taste Like?
Imagine the smooth boldness of cold brew mellowed out by a creamy swirl of pumpkin, maple, and vanilla. Add that cozy pumpkin spice mix, and you’ve basically bottled up autumn itself. Think sweater weather in a cup.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew
The beauty of making pumpkin spice cold brew at home is that it only takes a handful of simple ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays a role in creating that smooth, cozy, coffeehouse-worthy sip, without the price tag or the long lines.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cold Brew Coffee (1 cup): The star of the show. Cold brew has a smoother, less acidic taste than hot-brewed coffee. You can make it at home or grab a bottle from the store. I often brew a large batch so I can also use it in other recipes like my Pumpkin Coffee Cake mornings.
- Milk of Choice (1 cup): This recipe is flexible depending on your preferences. Whole milk will give you a creamy base, while plant-based options like oat or almond milk add a lighter finish. If you want it extra indulgent, try half and half.
- Pure Pumpkin Purée (3 tablespoons): Don’t confuse this with pumpkin pie filling! Look for 100% pure pumpkin on the label. This adds that natural pumpkin flavor we crave in fall drinks.
- Maple Syrup (2 tablespoons): A natural sweetener that brings warmth and depth. You can swap it with brown sugar if that’s what you have, but maple syrup pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice.
- Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Adds balance and a hint of sweetness. A little vanilla rounds out the flavor and keeps the coffee from tasting bitter.
- Pumpkin Spice Seasoning (½ teaspoon): The heart of the recipe—this blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates the cozy autumn flavor we love. If you’re a spice fan, add a pinch more. You can also try it in my Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe for a warmer option.
- Cinnamon (optional): A sprinkle on top not only looks pretty but makes your kitchen smell like fall magic.
👉 Pro Tip: Keep a jar of homemade pumpkin spice mix on hand. It’s perfect not just for this pumpkin spice cold brew, but also for Pumpkin Sourdough Bread or even cozy fall desserts like muffins and cakes.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew
Making your own pumpkin spice cold brew at home is so much easier than you think. You don’t need any fancy barista skills—just a blender, your favorite mug, and a few cozy fall vibes. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start blending, make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. Cold brew, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, vanilla, milk, and pumpkin spice seasoning are your essentials. (If you haven’t peeked yet, see the full ingredients list here).
Step 2: Add Everything to Your Blender
Into your blender, pour:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 3 tablespoons pumpkin purée
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice seasoning
This combo creates the smooth, creamy base of your pumpkin spice cold brew. If you’re craving something sweeter, feel free to drizzle in a little extra maple syrup at this stage.
Step 3: Blend Until Creamy
Blend on high for about 20–30 seconds. The goal is to fully mix the pumpkin purée and spices into the coffee so you don’t end up with clumps at the bottom of your glass. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks frothy and smooth, almost like a café latte.
👉 Tip: If you don’t have a full-size blender, an immersion blender or even a handheld frother works perfectly. I use mine all the time when I don’t want to pull out my big blender.
Step 4: Pour Over Ice
Grab two tall glasses, fill them with ice, and divide your blended coffee evenly between them. Watching that creamy pumpkin swirl over the ice is half the fun!
If you’re the kind of person who loves coffee with a side of pastry (me, always 🙋♀️), this pairs wonderfully with my Pumpkin Streusel Muffins for the ultimate fall treat.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Dust a little cinnamon or extra pumpkin spice on top. Not only does it smell heavenly, but it also makes your pumpkin spice cold brew look Instagram-worthy.
Step 6: Sip & Enjoy
Take that first sip and let the cozy flavors of fall wash over you. You just made your own coffeehouse drink at home, in less time than it takes to put on shoes and head to Starbucks.
👉 Bonus Idea: If you prefer your drinks hot, simply warm the milk before blending, skip the ice, and you’ll have a delicious pumpkin spice latte-style drink. (Or check out my full Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe if that’s more your vibe.)
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew
- Check your can: Pure pumpkin, not pie mix (the labels can look sneaky).
- Want it richer? Use half and half or cream.
- Less sweet? Start with 1 tablespoon syrup, taste, and adjust.
- No blender? Use an immersion blender or whisk until smooth.
- Make ahead: Double the recipe, keep in the fridge, and shake before pouring.
Storage for Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew
Keep leftovers in a mason jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good shake before pouring—pumpkin likes to settle at the bottom.
FAQs
Can I make this hot instead of cold?
Yes! Just heat your milk before blending and skip the ice.
Can I freeze it?
I wouldn’t. The pumpkin changes texture when frozen. Better to make fresh.
What’s the best milk to use?
Oat milk gives it a velvety coffee-shop vibe, but almond keeps it light.
Conclusion
There you have it—pumpkin spice cold brew made at home in just 5 minutes. Creamy, spiced, and wallet-friendly, this fall favorite is the perfect way to bring cozy café vibes to your kitchen. Next time you’re craving a seasonal sip, skip the drive-thru and whip this up instead.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
Print
Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew: The Ultimate Cozy Coffee Treat
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Homemade pumpkin spice cold brew is so easy to make right in your own kitchen. With only 5 ingredients and 5 minutes, you don’t need much to make a Starbucks copycat that’s perfect for fall.
Ingredients
1 cup cold brew coffee
1 cup milk of choice (regular, half and half, cashew milk, oat milk, coconut milk, almond milk)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
3 tablespoons pure pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice seasoning
Optional for serving: dash of cinnamon to top
Instructions
1. Add all ingredients into a blender, except optional cinnamon.
2. Blend until creamy and pour over two glasses filled with ice.
3. Add a dash of optional cinnamon on top before drinking.
Notes
You can also use an immersion blender instead of a full size blender.
Brown sugar can be used in place of maple syrup, but start with 1 tablespoon and slowly add it to your taste.
Using half and half for your milk choice will make your pumpkin spice cold brew taste more heavy or “rich”.
Do not use canned pumpkin pie mix. The cans often look similar to pure pumpkin so be sure to check!
