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Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino: The Ultimate Fall Drink Guide

Easy homemade Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino tastes just like your favorite coffee shop treat! Includes a simple homemade pumpkin spice syrup for the ultimate fall flavor. Customizable to your liking!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin spice syrup (recipe follows)
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups ice cubes
  • Whipped cream, for topping
  • Pumpkin pie spice, for garnish
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine Water and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Dissolve the Sugar: Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. You’ll know it’s ready when the liquid is clear and there are no sugar granules visible at the bottom of the pan. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add Pumpkin Puree and Spice: Once the sugar is dissolved, add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the saucepan. Whisk everything together thoroughly to ensure the pumpkin puree is fully incorporated and there are no lumps.
  4. Simmer the Syrup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the syrup to thicken slightly. Be careful not to let it boil vigorously, as this can cause the syrup to become too thick or burn.
  5. Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla: After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the syrup.
  6. Cool and Store: Let the syrup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or bottle. The syrup will thicken further as it cools. Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  7. Combine Ingredients in a Blender: In a high-powered blender, combine the cooled brewed coffee, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar (if needed, depending on your sweetness preference), pumpkin spice syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
  8. Add Ice: Add the ice cubes to the blender. The amount of ice you use will affect the thickness of your frappuccino, so feel free to adjust it to your liking. I find that 2 cups of ice creates a nice, thick consistency.
  9. Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid on the blender and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 30-60 seconds, depending on the power of your blender. If you notice any large chunks of ice remaining, stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula before blending again.
  10. Check the Consistency: Once the frappuccino is blended, check the consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes and blend again. You want it to be thick enough to hold its shape but still easy to drink through a straw.
  11. Pour into a Glass: Pour the blended frappuccino into a tall glass. I like to use a clear glass so I can admire the beautiful color and texture of the drink.
  12. Top with Whipped Cream: Generously top the frappuccino with whipped cream. You can use store-bought whipped cream or make your own. Homemade whipped cream is always a treat!
  13. Garnish with Pumpkin Pie Spice: Sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice over the whipped cream for a final touch of flavor and visual appeal. You can also drizzle a little extra pumpkin spice syrup on top if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
  14. Serve Immediately: Serve the pumpkin spice frappuccino immediately and enjoy! It’s best when it’s cold and the whipped cream is still fluffy.

Notes

  • Adjust Sweetness: Reduce sugar in syrup or use sugar substitute for less sweetness.
  • Add Chocolate: Add cocoa powder or chocolate syrup for a mocha twist.
  • Make it Vegan: Use non-dairy milk and whipped cream.
  • Add Espresso: Add a shot of espresso for an extra caffeine boost.
  • Spice it Up: Add ground ginger, cloves, or nutmeg for a more intense spice flavor.
  • Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce inside the glass before pouring in the frappuccino.
  • Frappuccino Pie: Crumble graham crackers on the bottom of the glass and top with whipped cream and graham cracker crumbs.
  • Make Ahead: Pumpkin spice syrup can be made up to 2 weeks ahead. Brew coffee ahead of time. Blend frappuccino fresh for best results.
  • Troubleshooting:
    • Too icy: Add milk or coffee.
    • Too thin: Add more ice.
    • Not sweet enough: Add more sugar or syrup.
    • Lumpy pumpkin: Whisk thoroughly.
    • Blender struggles: Use a high-powered blender or add ice in smaller increments.