Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe

There’s something irresistibly cozy about an Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe that makes it my go-to fall pick-me-up. The combination of spiced pumpkin cream foam layered over chilled chai tea offers that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy without ever feeling too heavy. I love how it captures the flavors of the season but stays refreshingly cool—ideal for those crisp days when you want comfort without the heat.

What makes this recipe extra special is how quick and simple it is to whip up at home. You don’t need fancy equipment or obscure ingredients, just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of frothing magic. If you’re a fan of Starbucks’ version but want to save some money or tweak it to your taste, this Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe is definitely worth trying out.

this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each component in this Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe plays a crucial role in layering flavor and texture. The pumpkin foam adds that luscious creaminess with a subtle autumn spice pop, while the chai concentrate delivers bold, warming spices that balance beautifully with the cool milk and ice.

• Heavy whipping cream: Creates the rich, velvety pumpkin foam that floats gloriously on top.
• Whole milk: Adds body to the foam without making it too thick or heavy.
• Canned pumpkin puree: Brings natural pumpkin flavor and a creamy texture without watery dilution.
• Maple syrup (or vanilla syrup): Adds sweetness and depth; maple syrup gives a lovely earthy note that pairs well with the spices.
• Pumpkin pie spice: Infuses the foam with warming notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove that scream fall.
• Milk of choice (I use 2%): Balances the chai tea concentrate with a smooth base; you can swap for almond, oat, or any milk you prefer.
• Chai tea concentrate: The heart of the drink, packed with spices like cardamom and ginger for that authentic chai flavor.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how this Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe is a blank canvas for your favorite flavors. Over time, I’ve found little tweaks that make it even better depending on my mood or what I have on hand, and you should definitely feel free to do the same.

• Adjust sweetness: I sometimes swap maple syrup for honey or a sugar-free syrup to suit my sweet tooth without overdoing it.
• Milk alternatives: Using oat milk creates a naturally sweet and creamy base, while almond milk adds a nutty nuance I adore.
• Stronger spice: I occasionally sprinkle extra cinnamon or even a dash of ground ginger into the foam for a spicy kick.
• Make it vegan: Swap out heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free and still luscious.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe

Step 1: Whip Up Your Pumpkin Cream Foam

Start by combining your heavy whipping cream, whole milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice in a mason jar or a tall glass. I use an electric milk frother because it’s quick and makes the foam airy and smooth in about 10 to 20 seconds. If you’re without a frother, a handheld whisk will work—it just takes a bit more elbow grease. You’re aiming for a thick, fluffy foam that holds its shape when spooned over the chai.

Step 2: Prepare the Chilled Chai Base

Fill your glass with ice cubes, then pour in equal parts of your preferred milk and chai tea concentrate. I usually do ½ cup milk and ½ cup chai concentrate, which is perfectly balanced for me. Stir gently to combine, but don’t overdo it—you want the iced chai to stay cool and refreshing beneath the rich foam.

Step 3: Layer On the Pumpkin Cream Foam

Using the back of a spoon or a small spatula, gently scoop the whipped pumpkin cream on top of your iced chai latte. This layering gives you that luxurious, textured experience with every sip—cool chai below and creamy spice foam on top. Grab a straw or a spoon and dive in immediately to enjoy that signature Starbucks-style indulgence at home.

How to Serve Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe

Garnishes

I love to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top of the foam for a final aromatic flourish. Sometimes, a small drizzle of maple syrup or a very light dusting of nutmeg not only makes the drink look more inviting but enhances the layers of flavor even more.

Side Dishes

Pair your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe with cozy snacks like buttery pumpkin muffins, cinnamon sugar donuts, or even a crunchy biscotti for dipping. The warm spices in all these treats complement the chai latte perfectly and elevate your autumn sipping experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try serving this drink in a clear glass mug to showcase the beautiful layers. Adding a cinnamon stick as a stirrer or placing a dollop of whipped cream on top before the pumpkin foam can turn this cozy beverage into a showstopper for guests or festive gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover pumpkin cream foam (which I rarely do), store it in an airtight jar in the fridge and give it a gentle stir or quick froth before serving again. The chai concentrate mixed with milk is best fresh but can be kept refrigerated for a day or two without losing flavor.

Freezing

Freezing the pumpkin cream is not recommended since the texture changes and separates upon thawing. However, you can freeze chai concentrate or pumpkin puree separately for future use, helping you whip up this drink anytime.

Reheating

This iced latte is best enjoyed cold, but if you want a warm version, gently warm the milk and chai concentrate on low heat—avoid boiling to keep spices intact. Prepare the pumpkin cream foam fresh and add it on top after warming for that special touch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s like a warm fall hug—even in a chilled glass. It’s simple enough to make any day feel like a treat, and the fact that you can tweak it to your liking makes it such a joy to prepare. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll keep coming back to it season after season, and you’ll love having this autumn classic on tap right in your own kitchen.

Print