Fall is here, and that means pumpkin-flavored drinks are everywhere.
One of the most popular choices is the Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, a fan favorite since it debuted in 2019.
But did you know you can make a healthier, more cost-effective version at home?
With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can customize this delicious drink to fit your taste and dietary needs.
Let’s look at how you can enjoy this fall favorite without leaving your kitchen.
What is Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew?
Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is a delightful fall drink that combines cold brew coffee with a creamy pumpkin-flavored foam on top.
The cold brew coffee provides a smooth and rich base, while the pumpkin cream foam adds a sweet and spicy layer, making it the perfect autumn treat.
The Starbucks version, introduced in 2019, quickly became a seasonal favorite.
It features cold brew coffee, vanilla syrup, and a topping of pumpkin cream cold foam made from heavy cream, milk, and pumpkin spice.
However, the homemade version offers a healthier and more customizable alternative.
By using non-dairy milk like oat milk or almond milk, you can create a dairy-free option.
Additionally, the homemade recipe is lower in sugar, as it uses maple syrup or other preferred sweeteners instead of the high-sugar vanilla syrup found in the Starbucks version.
This means you can enjoy the same delicious flavors with fewer calories and less sugar, all while saving money and tailoring the drink to your dietary needs.
Benefits of Making Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew at Home
Making Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew at home offers several advantages over buying it from Starbucks.
Cost Savings
One of the main benefits is cost savings.
A homemade version costs significantly less per serving compared to purchasing it at Starbucks, where a single drink can cost around $5.
By using ingredients you likely already have at home, like coffee, milk, and pumpkin puree, you can make multiple servings at a fraction of the cost.
Health Benefits
The homemade version also has notable health benefits.
It contains lower sugar compared to the Starbucks version, which has 31 grams of sugar per serving.
By controlling the ingredients, you can reduce the sugar content by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup.
This makes the drink healthier and more suitable for those watching their sugar intake.
Additionally, you can use organic or high-quality ingredients, ensuring a more nutritious beverage.
Customizable Ingredients
Another significant advantage is the flexibility to customize the drink to suit dietary needs.
You can choose non-dairy milk options such as oat milk or almond milk, making it a great choice for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based diets.
You can also adjust the sweetness level, spice intensity, and creaminess to match your personal preferences.
This customization allows you to enjoy a tailored version of Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew that meets your specific dietary and taste requirements, making it a versatile and inclusive option for everyone.
Ingredients Needed
For Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam
To make the delicious pumpkin cream cold foam, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup oat milk (or any non-dairy/dairy milk of your choice): This serves as the creamy base for the foam. Oat milk is a great dairy-free option that froths well.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons pumpkin puree: Provides the essential pumpkin flavor. Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or your preferred sweetener: Adds a touch of sweetness to the foam. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice or cinnamon: Gives the foam its warm, autumnal spice. You can use a blend of spices or just cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of vanilla.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.
For Pumpkin Cold Brew
To assemble the pumpkin cold brew, you will need:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee: This is the base of your drink. You can make it at home or buy it from the store. Ensure it is well-chilled before use.
- Ice: Adds a refreshing chill to the drink. Use as much as you like to fill your glass.
- Optional: additional sweeteners or flavorings like vanilla syrup: Customize your drink by adding extra sweetness or a hint of vanilla. This step is optional and based on your personal preference.
Equipment Needed
To make your Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew at home, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment:
Small Saucepan
A small saucepan is necessary for heating and combining the ingredients for the pumpkin cream cold foam.
This helps to blend the flavors thoroughly and ensures the mixture is smooth.
When heating, make sure to use low to medium heat to avoid boiling the mixture, which can affect the texture.
Whisk
A whisk is crucial for mixing the ingredients in the saucepan.
It helps to incorporate the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, spices, and other ingredients evenly into the milk.
Whisking continuously while heating will ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture.
Frother
To achieve the perfect frothy texture for the pumpkin cream, a frother is indispensable.
You can use:
- Milk Frother: This is the most convenient tool for creating a light, airy foam.
- Handheld Frother: A great alternative if you don’t have a milk frother. It’s portable and easy to use.
- Blender: If you don’t have a frother, a blender can be used to froth the mixture. Blend the cooled mixture on high speed until it becomes foamy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Making the Pumpkin Cold Foam
1. Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan and Heat Until Steaming
Start by combining 1 cup of oat milk, 1 1/2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice or cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan.
Place the saucepan over low to medium heat.
Whisk continuously to ensure all ingredients are well-blended and the mixture heats evenly.
Heat until the mixture is steaming but not boiling.
2. Cool the Mixture and Froth Until Foamy
Once the mixture is steaming, remove it from the heat.
Pour it into a container and let it cool in the refrigerator for about 5-10 minutes.
After cooling, use a frother to froth the mixture until it becomes light and airy.
If you don’t have a frother, you can use a blender.
Blend on high speed until the mixture is foamy.
3. Tips for Achieving the Best Foam Consistency
For the best foam consistency, make sure your mixture is well-chilled before frothing.
This helps create a thicker and more stable foam.
If using a handheld frother, move it up and down in the mixture to incorporate more air.
If using a blender, blend on the highest speed for the best results.
Adjust the amount of pumpkin puree and sweetener to your taste preferences.
Step 2: Preparing the Cold Brew Coffee
1. How to Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home or Options to Use Store-Bought Cold Brew
To make cold brew coffee at home, combine 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee beans with 4 cups of cold water in a large jar or pitcher.
Stir well, cover, and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours.
After steeping, strain the coffee through a fine mesh sieve or a coffee filter to remove the grounds.
Alternatively, you can use store-bought cold brew coffee for convenience.
2. Importance of Chilling the Coffee Before Use
Ensure the cold brew coffee is well-chilled before assembling your drink.
Chilling the coffee helps maintain the refreshing quality of the beverage and prevents the ice from melting too quickly, which can dilute the flavor.
Step 3: Assembling the Drink
1. Pouring Cold Brew Over Ice
Fill a glass with a handful of ice cubes.
Pour 1 cup of cold brew coffee over the ice, leaving some space at the top for the pumpkin cream cold foam.
2. Topping with Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam
Gently pour the prepared pumpkin cream cold foam over the cold brew coffee.
Allow the foam to sit on top for a visually appealing layer.
3. Garnishing with Extra Pumpkin Spice
For an extra touch of fall flavor, sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin spice or cinnamon on top of the foam.
This adds a lovely aroma and enhances the pumpkin spice experience.
Customization Options
Dairy-Free Alternatives and Their Benefits
When making Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, using dairy-free alternatives like oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk can offer several benefits.
Oat milk provides a creamy texture and is often fortified with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice.
Almond milk is lower in calories and has a mild flavor that complements the pumpkin spices well.
Coconut milk adds a rich, tropical flavor and is also a good source of healthy fats.
These alternatives make the drink suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based diets, without compromising on taste or creaminess.
Different Sweetener Options
Customizing the sweetness of your Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is easy with various sweetener options.
Maple syrup adds a natural, rich sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
Honey provides a floral sweetness and can also be a healthier option with its antioxidants and antibacterial properties.
Agave nectar is another natural sweetener that dissolves easily in cold liquids and has a mild taste.
For those watching their sugar intake, zero-calorie sweeteners like stevia or erythritol can be used to sweeten the drink without adding calories.
Flavor Variations
To add a unique twist to your Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, consider experimenting with different flavor syrups.
Hazelnut syrup introduces a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin spice.
Coconut syrup adds a tropical note, enhancing the creaminess of the drink.
Chocolate syrup can create a mocha-like version of the cold brew, blending the rich flavors of chocolate and pumpkin spice.
These variations allow you to enjoy a new flavor profile each time you make the drink.
Adjusting the Spice Level to Taste
The spice level in your Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
If you love a strong spice flavor, increase the amount of pumpkin spice or cinnamon in the foam mixture.
For a milder taste, reduce the spice quantity.
You can also experiment with adding other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to customize the flavor further.
Tips for Best Results
Use High-Quality Ingredients for Better Flavor
For the best-tasting Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, always opt for high-quality ingredients.
Freshly brewed cold brew coffee, pure pumpkin puree, and real vanilla extract can significantly enhance the flavor of your drink.
Using organic or locally sourced ingredients can also make a noticeable difference.
High-quality ingredients ensure a richer, more authentic taste, making your homemade version stand out.
Ensure All Ingredients Are Well-Chilled Before Use
To achieve the perfect Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, it’s crucial to use well-chilled ingredients.
Cold brew coffee should be thoroughly chilled before serving to maintain its smooth and refreshing quality.
Additionally, cooling the pumpkin cream mixture before frothing helps create a thicker, more stable foam.
This step ensures your drink is consistently cold and prevents the ice from melting too quickly, which can dilute the flavor.
Store Leftover Pumpkin Cream in the Fridge and Re-Froth Before Use
If you have leftover pumpkin cream, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It will keep fresh for up to a day.
Before using the leftover cream, give it a quick re-froth to restore its light and airy texture.
This ensures that each serving of Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew has the same delightful frothy top as the first.
Suggestions for Serving Occasions
Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions.
Serve it during fall activities like pumpkin picking or hayrides for a seasonal treat.
It’s also a fantastic addition to a brunch menu, pairing well with pastries and other breakfast items.
For a daily pick-me-up, enjoy this drink as an afternoon refresher or a special morning coffee.
Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it suitable for any time you crave a delicious coffee drink.
Conclusion
Making Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew at home offers numerous benefits.
It’s cost-effective, healthier, and highly customizable.
Plus, you can use your favorite ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious fall drink without leaving your home.
We’d love to hear about your experience, so please share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments.
Feel free to ask questions, and let’s keep the conversation going!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew be Made Dairy-Free?
Yes, the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew can easily be made dairy-free.
Simply substitute the dairy milk with non-dairy alternatives like oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.
How Long Does the Pumpkin Cream Cold Foam Last in the Fridge?
The pumpkin cream cold foam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day.
Before using it again, give it a quick re-froth to restore its light and airy texture.
What’s the Difference Between Cold Brew and Iced Coffee?
Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for 12-24 hours, resulting in a smoother, less acidic coffee.
Iced coffee, on the other hand, is brewed hot and then cooled down by pouring over ice, which can result in a more acidic and bolder flavor compared to cold brew.
How to Re-Froth Leftover Pumpkin Cream?
You can use a frother or blender to restore its creamy, foamy texture, ensuring each serving is as delightful as the first.
