The Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte captures everything we crave about fall in a single, indulgent sip—fragrant chai tea melded with creamy pumpkin, dreamy spices, and a cloud of whipped cream on top. Imagine curling up with this treat on a brisk afternoon or brightening a workday with seasonal joy: it’s pure autumn comfort, yet refreshingly cool and homey. This pumpkin chai iced latte is a true taste of cozy, ready in minutes, brimming with familiar warmth and a touch of everyday magic.

Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I adore about the Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte is how it transforms simple staples into a celebration of fall. Each ingredient plays its role, from spicy chai that dances with the pumpkin, to silky milk, to the whipped cream perched like the first swirl of frost. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Water: The foundation for steeping your chai, letting those spices bloom and fill your kitchen with that signature fall aroma.

Chai tea bags: They carry all the classic chai flavors—think cinnamon, cardamom, and clove—in just a few minutes of steeping.
Milk (dairy or non-dairy): It lends body and creaminess, balancing the bold spices with just the right amount of richness.

Pumpkin puree: This star ingredient infuses the drink with unmistakable pumpkin character and a lovely velvet color.
Sugar: Just a little lifts the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and rounds out the spices—taste and adjust if you like it sweeter!

Vanilla extract: Adds that hint of bakery-warmth and brings the whole ensemble together.
Pumpkin pie spice: Sprinkled into both the latte and on top, it’s the fragrant signature that tells you autumn is calling.
Heavy cream: Whipped up into clouds, this is what makes the latte feel unapologetically celebratory and luscious.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream so every sip starts with a delectable treat.
Ice cubes: Essential for a chilled and refreshing latte—don’t skimp, especially on warm fall afternoons.

How to Make Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte

Step 1: Steep the Chai Tea

Start by bringing one cup of water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Once it’s boiling, turn off the heat and add your chai tea bags. Letting them steep for about five minutes will draw out all those captivating spices, giving your Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte its robust base. Remove the tea bags and allow the tea to cool to room temperature—you don’t want it to melt your ice!

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Milk

In a medium bowl, whisk together one cup of milk, the pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. This pumpkin milk mixture should look creamy and feel luxurious, with every bit of pumpkin perfectly blended. That’s where the drink gets its golden autumn hue and soft texture.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, combine heavy cream and powdered sugar. Whip until you get soft, billowy peaks—this shouldn’t take long, and it’s the part that gives your latte a café-worthy finish. Set your whipped cream aside but try not to eat it all with a spoon!

Step 4: Build Your Base

Add a generous handful of ice to your glass. Pour the cooled chai tea over the ice, creating the first invigorating layer for your Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte. This step instantly starts waking up the flavors and prepares the chilly stage for the next layers.

Step 5: Add the Pumpkin Layer

Pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the chai tea and gently stir to combine, creating a lightly marbled effect. This is where the magic happens—the creamy pumpkin begins to mingle with the spiced tea underneath, making every sip a little adventure in flavor.

Step 6: Top With Whipped Cream

Spoon or pipe the whipped cream on top of the latte. This pillowy cap is what everyone swoons over—it adds an unmistakable sense of occasion and lets you know this isn’t just any iced drink.

Step 7: Sprinkle Pumpkin Spice

Finish your masterpiece by dusting the whipped cream with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice. It’s aromatic, visually gorgeous, and makes your Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte smell like autumn in a cup.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Latte

You can give it a gentle stir to blend all those layers or leave it as is to savor the transition from spicy chai to creamy pumpkin to rich whipped cream. Each method is a delight, so follow your mood!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte

Garnishes

For a visually stunning presentation, always finish your Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte with a cloud of whipped cream and a generous pinch of pumpkin pie spice. If you want something extra special, try a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of nutmeg for even more aroma. A little orange zest adds a pop of color and brightness, perfect for special gatherings.

Side Dishes

The warm, spiced flavors of your Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte pair beautifully with buttery pastries, maple scones, or even a thick slice of banana bread. For a lighter pairing, a bowl of mixed nuts or crisp apple slices sets off the richness of the latte, making it perfect for a cozy brunch or afternoon snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get a little playful? Serve the latte in mason jars or clear glass mugs to show off the beautiful layers. For parties, try mini latte shooters with a swirl of whipped cream. Or, for a taste of café-chic at home, drizzle caramel or add a vanilla sugar rim—you’ll make every guest feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you haven’t finished your Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte, just transfer the remaining drink (without the whipped cream) to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious for up to 48 hours—just give it a good stir before pouring over fresh ice. For best texture, add the whipped cream right before serving.

Freezing

While you won’t want to freeze the assembled latte (it loses its silkiness), you can certainly freeze the pumpkin milk mixture or even cubes of spiced chai tea to make next time a breeze. Simply thaw in the fridge and assemble as usual—so handy when cravings strike!

Reheating

Although this recipe is all about the refreshing chill, you can absolutely warm the Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte for a cozy hot treat. Just gently heat the chai tea and pumpkin milk mixture together in a saucepan until warm, whisk well, and serve topped with freshly whipped cream and spice.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pumpkin spice syrup instead of pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! While pumpkin puree gives the most authentic color and flavor, a high-quality pumpkin spice syrup can be a fun shortcut. Just reduce the sugar a bit and taste as you go, since syrups are usually sweeter.

What non-dairy milks work best for this latte?

Oat milk is a fantastic creamy option, and almond milk gives a subtle nutty taste, both blending seamlessly with the chai and pumpkin. Soy and coconut milk also work, so choose your favorite or mix for a custom flavor!

How do I make this drink less sweet?

Try halving the sugar in both the pumpkin milk and the whipped cream, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. It’s easy to adjust, so taste along the way to find your perfect amount.

Can I make these in advance for a party?

You sure can! Brew a big batch of chai and mix up the pumpkin milk ahead of time. Keep them chilled separately, assemble just before guests arrive, and finish with a fresh dollop of whipped cream and spice for that “just-made” wow factor.

What can I do if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

No worries—just mix cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves or allspice to taste. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up a custom blend that’ll still give your Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte that irresistible fall flavor.

Final Thoughts

If autumn is your favorite season or you simply crave a cozy, spiced pick-me-up, the Pumpkin Chai Iced Latte is your new essential recipe. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, every step brings a little joy to your kitchen. Give it a try—you might just start a delicious new tradition!