22 PSL-Inspired Recipes Even Better Than the Real Thing (2024)

We’ve triple checked our planners, set our alarms (#stealthmode) and readied our mugs for Tuesday September 8 (aka #PSL release day!). Though it took forever for the latte to be made with actual pumpkin (cough cough, Mr. Schultz!), we still have a warm place in our hearts for the seasonal latte. It’s essentially the unofficial start of cozierwardrobes, rainbow trees and everything fall. While we wait for this delicious drink to hit the coffeeshops, we’re bringing you the 22 best pumpkin spice latte-inspired recipes from around the Interwebs. So bake ’em or make ’em, then sit back and let the fall vibes surround you.

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes: Possibly one of the only things that can rival our latte addiction is our sweet tooth. Luckily, this insanely decadent cupcake combines the best of both our loves in the prettiest, most bite-sized way. These would make such a sweet surprise to bring to any fall get-together. (via Brown Eyed Baker)

2. Spiced Pumpkin Macaroons: Not sure about you, but we’re still not over this macaron trend that’s been happening the past few years. Though these aren’t considered an entirely simple recipe, once you get the hang of baking this little cookie, they’re great little treats to eat or gift. (via Bakers Royale)

3. Pumpkin Spice Latte Donuts: You know what goes great with that early morning latte? A #PSL-inspired donut. (via A Happy Food Dance)

4. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookie: For anyone who might be a bit overwhelmed (or underwhelmed) by the whole pumpkin spice latte thing, this treat might be the ideal dip into the PSL waters. Striking a perfect balance between sweet and spicy, these cookies could replace your go-to chocolate chip recipe, even if only for this September. (via Cleverly Inspired)

5. Skinny Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino: We prefer to live in denial of how many calories are packed into the average pumpkin spice latte, so that’s why we’re obsessing over this “skinny” version. (via Live Well Bake Often)

6. Homemade Pumpkin Chai Latte: Combining the benefits of chai tea with the delicious autumn flavors of pumpkin, this might be our new fave at-home drink. (via Cookie + Kate)

7. Pumpkin Spice Latte Jello Shots: Bringing a bit of your morning routine into your evening festivities, these little shots are a great adult way to sample the #PSL. Plus, they’re mini guarantees that you’ll be the hit of any party or tailgate. (via That’s So Michelle)

8. Pumpkin Spice Marshmallows: After sampling this homemade goodness — which is made with pumpkin spice syrup — it will be hard not to barge into any Starbucks and demand they immediately add marshmallows to your drink. However, if they refuse, this marshmallow recipe is accompanied by a DIY PSL recipe too. (via A Simple Pantry)

9. Pumpkin Spiced Apple Pie: So there are apples in this pie, which makes it healthy, right? Either way, this eight-ingredient slice of heaven is a great way to kick off a season of baking. (via Minimalist Baker)

10. Pumpkin Spice Latte Ice Cream: Since it hasn’t gotten too cold out yet, this recipe makes the perfect transitional treat. It’s a taste of pumpkin in an after-dinner dessert that is slightly reminiscent of summer. (via The Simple Sweet Life)

11. Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars: Made with coconut, oats and pumpkin seeds, these little bars are both sweet and satisfying. They’ll make great snacks to pack for an end-of-summer getaway. (via Fork Knife Swoon)

12. Skinny Pumpkin Pie Milkshake: For any little kiddos who might want to try the PSL madness without all that caffeine madness, this sweet treat is a great compromise. Add a few sprinkles on top, and you’re in business. (via Gimme Some Oven)

13. Pumpkin Spice Latte Pancakes: Forget your coffee or smoothie, ’cause these pancakes are made with a touch of espresso and a bit of flax seed to keep you satisfied all morning. (via Food EaseTV)

14. Pumpkin Spice Latte Muffins: Made with quite a bit of brown sugar, these muffins are not all that healthy, but they sure are delicious. (via PopSugar)

15. Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake: One of the best things about fall? Slow cooker season. Start early by making this moist, healthy-ish pumpkin spice latte-inspired cake. (via Skinny Ms)

16. Pumpkin Spice Latte Quinoa: We haven’t given up on this power grain and its benefits yet. If we’re being honest, this recipe (which, beyond quinoa, boasts super good-for-you ingredients like coconut oil and and pumpkin) is a big reason why. (via Healthful Pursuit)

17. Iced Pumpkin Spice Lattes (Vegan & Gluten-Free): Just because you have dietary restrictions doesn’t mean you have to be left out of all the fun. It only requires almond milk, cinnamon, espresso, maple syrup and pumpkin — a drink doesn’t get much cleaner or more simple than that. (via The Pig & Quill)

18. Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Fudge: This dessert is super easy to make but really lets the pumpkin flavors sing. (via Miss Candiquik)

19. Pumpkin Spice Latte Nutella Muffins (Grain-Free and Dairy-Free): This muffin is essentially our spirit animal. Not only does it hit on our healthy list (grain- and dairy-free!), but it also adds Nutella to an already incredible pumpkin spice latte muffin. SO much fall goodness. (via Texanerin Baking)

20. Banana Pumpkin Spice Milkshakes: With how amazing banana “ice cream” is, we’re not surprised this shake tastes heavenly. Made of a blend of just seven ingredients, including yogurt, pumpkin and banana, this milkshake is more healthy than indulgent. (via Whole & Heavenly Oven)

21. Pumpkin Latte-Flavored Granola: This versatile mixture is a tasty, satisfying breakfast when paired with yogurt or almond milk, but also makes a sweet + unique gift. (via She Knows)

22. Pumpkin Spice Latte Protein Pancakes: With these delicious protein pancakes, you’ll kick butt at the gym, but still feel like you treated yourself. (via Now You’re Cookin’)

How are you celebrating #PSL release day? Share in the comments below!

Nicole Jahns

Nicole is a writer, artist and major dog enthusiast eating her way through Chicago, IL. When she’s not getting her “om” on, she’s sharing recipes and DIYs on her blog, Midwest Love Fest.

22 PSL-Inspired Recipes Even Better Than the Real Thing (2024)

FAQs

Why is the PSL so popular? ›

Because our perception of taste goes hand in hand with aromas, we taste (and in turn smell) pumpkin spice and our brain perceives it as a warm, happy memory that we enjoy. "Our olfactory systems are already built to respond enthusiastically to odors and their associated memories.

Is there real pumpkin in PSL? ›

Pumpkin Spice Latte was first introduced as a test in just 100 stores in Washington, D.C. and Vancouver, Canada. PSL gets its nickname from the three-letter beverage code originally written on cups by baristas. Since 2015, PSL's pumpkin sauce has included real pumpkin puree, made from little kabocha pumpkins.

What is a fun fact about PSL? ›

PSL was introduced as a test on October 10, 2003 in about 100 stores in Vancouver, B.C. and Washington, D.C., and went on to launch across the U.S. and Canada the following autumn. PSL got its nickname from the original three-letter beverage code for Pumpkin Spice Latte written by baristas on cups.

Was Starbucks the first company to serve a PSL? ›

Starbucks was also on the signature drink hunt during this time. The PSL is credited to Starbucks' director of espresso, Peter Dukes, but it's unclear if Starbucks actually was the first to develop the PSL as we know it today.

What is the best PSL? ›

If you're a fan of sweeter coffee beverages, Dunkin's classic PSL is the one for you. With its blend of pumpkin syrup and rich whipped cream, this latte had some of our editors questioning if there was actually coffee in their carry out cups or a slice of pumpkin pie.

Is PSL making money? ›

Notably, PSL 2023 witnessed a sharp rise in the revenue as compared with the seventh edition - the previous edition generated profits of PKR 2.3 billion (USD 11,941,400 approx.)

Why isn't PSL vegan? ›

A hidden ingredient makes the PSL not vegan

The pumpkin spice syrup used in these beverages, whether hot or iced, is made with skim milk, alongside sugar, pumpkin purée, and other flavoring agents. Unfortunately, there is no secret menu hack to replicate the same flavors as a traditional PSL, minus the dairy.

What WTF is pumpkin spice? ›

Pumpkin spice, also known as pumpkin pie spice, is a mixture of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Some pumpkin spice mixes might leave out a spice or two, but most consist of at least two or three of the spices listed above.

Does PSL taste good? ›

Still pretty good My favorite Starbucks item. It isn't as good as it once was, but its still so nutmegy and pumpkiny and all spice and idk what, but it is tasty. Ok drink I like that this drink is reminscent of fall but the flavoring was very strong and heavy.

What does the PSL stand for? ›

Pakistan Super League - Wikipedia.

What is the biggest target in PSL history? ›

Sultans set record PSL target of 263, beat Gladiators in high-scoring match.

How many franchises does PSL have? ›

The PSL will get two new franchises from 2026, making it an eight-team league. This was officially confirmed in a statement by the PCB on Friday, which called the upcoming season in 2025 - the tenth edition - the "last six-team event".

Why is Starbucks boycotted? ›

The clash between the union and Starbucks Corporation, instances of employees' termination, past donations to Israeli companies and accusations of Starbucks funding the Israeli military sparked the boycott.

Does Starbucks have boba? ›

The brand calls them “flavored pearls,” and we got to try them ahead of their release.

Who invented PSL? ›

Peter Dukes is credited with being the man behind the coffee confection that came to define a whole season: Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte. It all began in the company's Seattle headquarters in 2001. "You are the father of PSL?" CBS News' Michelle Miller asked, referring to the beverage. "That's what some say.

Why do people like the Pumpkin Spice Latte so much? ›

You're biologically wired to like it.

The sugar and fat interact on our taste buds to boost the flavors and make them “pop” more than either one alone, Fernstrom noted. Meanwhile, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves are particular taste enhancers. “This is a real treat to the taste buds,” she said. Then, there's the salt.

What's the big deal with pumpkin spice? ›

Some think it relates way back to our colony days where pumpkins were one of the only crops the settlers could sustain and so, subconsciously, pumpkin reminds us of our roots. Others believe that the seasonal appeal of the pumpkin-flavor is what creates the allure. Either way, the pumpkin spice craze is here to stay.

When did PSL become popular? ›

Since 2003, the drink, sometimes known as a PSL, has become an autumnal harbinger for Starbucks customers and a major moneymaker for the company. It's Starbucks' most successful seasonal drink, and hundreds of millions have been sold since its launch, reports Dee-Ann Durbin of the Associated Press (AP).

Is PSL more popular than IPL? ›

Without a comparison ipl is more popular than psl, but that doesn't mean psl is not good, psl is also a quality league across the world but if we compare to ipl then it's slightly behind in terms of popularity.

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