I still remember the first time I sipped a rich, creamy cup of Starbucks Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai on a chilly autumn afternoon. The soft sunlight streaming through the golden leaves outside, combined with the cozy, spiced flavor dancing on my tongue, filled me with nostalgia. It felt like a warm hug, a reminder of crisp days ahead and cozy gatherings around the fire. That delightful combination of chai tea and pumpkin spice is one that many crave when fall rolls around — and why not enjoy it at home? Prepare to cozy up your kitchen and indulge in this easy, homemade version of the beloved Starbucks drink. Get ready to pour yourself a comforting glass of homemade bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep: Whip this up in just a few minutes — perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon treat!
- Nostalgic appeal: Bring back the warmth of your favorite coffee shop experience right to your kitchen.
- Comforting flavors: The mix of pumpkin spice and chai creates a delightful combination that warms both your heart and your taste buds.
- Budget-friendly: Easily made at home, this drink saves you money compared to frequent trips to Starbucks.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- Heavy whipping cream
- 2% milk
- Pumpkin puree
- Vanilla syrup
- Pumpkin pie spice
- Chai tea concentrate
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into the creation of this delicious Starbucks Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai! First up, we’ll make the pumpkin spice cold foam.
- In a mixing cup or bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, 2% milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla syrup, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Froth the mixture for about 20 seconds until it’s mixed well and thickened to your liking. Trust me, you’ll love this dreamy foam!
- Set the pumpkin spice cold foam aside while we prepare the chilled chai latte.
- In a separate glass, pour the chai tea concentrate and the milk together.
- Add ice to the glass and give it a quick stir.
- Top it off with the pumpkin spice cold foam you created earlier. Feel free to sprinkle a bit of pumpkin pie spice on top for that extra festive touch. Yum!
Pro Tips for Making This Recipe
- If you want an extra frothy foam, try using a handheld frother instead of a whisk.
- Seasonal pumpkin puree can be substituted for butternut squash or sweet potato puree — both work beautifully!
- Don’t shy away from adjusting the sweetness level to your taste preference by adding more or less vanilla syrup.
- For a richer flavor, switch up your regular milk for whole milk or even oat milk for a dairy-free alternative!
How to Serve
This fabulous drink pairs beautifully with baked goods like pumpkin muffins or a comforting slice of spice cake for a delightful brunch spread. Consider serving it during your next gathering with friends or family, or even as a special treat for a cozy night in. The presentation makes a big difference, so serve it in your favorite expansive glass, topped with that elegantly whipped foam and a light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. It’ll be a feast for the eyes as much as for the taste buds!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you happen to have any leftovers — and I doubt you will, because it’s so tasty! — the iced chai can last in the fridge for about 24 hours. However, for the best flavor and experience, I recommend making the pumpkin spice cold foam fresh. You can also prep the chai tea concentrate beforehand and store it in the refrigerator. This way, on busy mornings, you can quickly assemble your Starbucks-style drink in no time!
FAQ
- Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! All the ingredients mentioned are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any flavored syrups you use to ensure they meet your needs.
- What if I don’t have pumpkin puree? No problem at all! You can substitute it with sweet potato puree or simply omit it for a chai latte style drink.
- Can I use an alternative milk? Yes! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk work great as substitutes. Feel free to pick the one that suits your taste preferences!
I hope this homemade Starbucks Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. It’s the perfect reminder of cozy vibes and beautiful seasons to come. Let me know how it turns out for you — I’d love to hear all about your experience! Cheers to delicious autumn flavors! ❤️
Starbucks Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai
Ingredients
Pumpkin Spice Cold Foam
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
- 2-3 tablespoons vanilla syrup
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Iced Chai Latte
- 1 ⅓ cups chai tea concentrate
- ⅔ cup milk
Instructions
- Froth all cold foam ingredients for 20 seconds until thickened.
- Mix chai tea concentrate and milk in a glass filled with ice.
- Top with pumpkin spice cold foam and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.