How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte with Oat Milk: The Ultimate Fall Coffee Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the first sip of a pumpkin spice latte when the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp. But if you’re avoiding dairy or simply prefer a plant-based option, the classic PSL can be a challenge — most coffee shops rely on cow’s milk for that signature creamy texture. Enter oat milk: the barista-approved alternative that froths beautifully and complements the warm spices of fall. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a pumpkin spice latte with oat milk that rivals any café version, right in your own kitchen.

Making your own PSL at home isn’t just satisfying — it’s also healthier and more budget-friendly. You control the sweetness, the spice blend, and the milk. And with oat milk’s natural creaminess, you’ll get a latte that’s rich, smooth, and completely dairy-free. Whether you’re a seasoned home barista or a fall fanatic looking for a new ritual, this recipe is for you.

Why Oat Milk Is the Best Choice for a Pumpkin Spice Latte

Oat milk has taken the coffee world by storm, and for good reason. Unlike almond or coconut milk, oat milk has a neutral flavour that doesn’t overpower the pumpkin and spice notes. Its natural sweetness means you can use less syrup, and its creamy consistency mimics whole milk — perfect for a latte. When steamed, oat milk creates a thick, velvety microfoam that holds up beautifully, making it ideal for latte art or just a comforting, cloud-like top layer.

For this pumpkin spice latte recipe, we recommend using a barista edition oat milk for the best frothing results. Products like the Barista Oat Milk (6-pack) are specially formulated to withstand high temperatures without separating, ensuring your PSL stays smooth from first sip to last. If you’re looking for a more neutral base, the Unsweetened Original Oat Milk (6-pack) works wonderfully too — just adjust your sweetener to taste.

• Barista oat milk froths better than standard oat milk due to added stabilisers.
• Unsweetened oat milk lets you control the sugar level more precisely.
• Oat milk is naturally free from nuts, soy, and lactose, making it allergy-friendly.

The Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe with Oat Milk

Now let’s get to the star of the show: the recipe. This pumpkin spice latte with oat milk serves one and takes about 5 minutes to make. You’ll need: 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee), 1 cup of oat milk, 2 tablespoons of pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling), 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves), and a pinch of vanilla extract. Start by whisking the pumpkin purée, sweetener, and spices in a small saucepan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the oat milk and continue whisking until steaming — do not boil.

While the milk mixture heats, brew your espresso or coffee. Pour the hot coffee into a mug, then add the spiced oat milk. For extra froth, you can use a milk frother or immersion blender to aerate the oat milk before pouring. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for indulgence. The result is a creamy, aromatic PSL that tastes like autumn in a cup. For a fun twist, try using the Kids Chocolate Oat Milk 8oz On the Go (16-pack) as a base for a mocha-pumpkin hybrid — just reduce the sweetener slightly.

• Use 100% pumpkin purée, not pie filling, to avoid added sugars and thickeners.
• If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, mix 1/4 tsp cinnamon + 1/8 tsp each nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
• For an iced version, chill the spiced oat milk and pour over ice with cold brew.

Tips for Frothing Oat Milk Like a Barista

Getting that perfect foam for your pumpkin spice latte is all about technique. First, always use cold oat milk straight from the fridge — warm milk doesn’t froth well. If you have an espresso machine with a steam wand, submerge the tip just below the surface and angle it slightly to create a whirlpool. Heat the milk to about 60-65°C (140-150°F) — any hotter and the proteins can break down. For handheld frothers or French presses, warm the oat milk first, then froth vigorously for 30-45 seconds.

One common issue with oat milk is that it can sometimes separate or become grainy if overheated. That’s why barista blends are a game-changer. The Barista Oat Milk (6-pack) is designed to handle high heat and produce a silky microfoam every time. If you’re using a standard oat milk, keep the heat low and remove it from the stove just before it simmers. A splash of the Unsweetened Original Oat Milk (6-pack) can also help balance sweetness if your syrup is on the heavy side.

• Always froth cold oat milk for best volume and texture.
• Don’t let oat milk exceed 65°C to avoid curdling.
• Clean your steam wand immediately after use to prevent milk residue buildup.

Customising Your Pumpkin Spice Latte: Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about making your own PSL is the freedom to customise. Want a stronger spice kick? Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice. Prefer it less sweet? Use unsweetened oat milk and skip the maple syrup — the pumpkin purée and spices provide plenty of flavour. For a protein boost, stir in a scoop of vanilla collagen or plant-based protein powder before frothing the milk. You can also make a pumpkin spice cold foam by blending cold oat milk with pumpkin purée and spices, then spooning it over iced coffee.

If you’re making this for kids or a family gathering, consider using the Kids Oat Milk (6-pack) for a lighter, kid-friendly version. It’s already slightly sweetened and fortified with calcium and vitamin D, making it a nutritious base for a warm fall drink. For a chocolatey twist, the Chocolate Oat Milk (6-pack) can replace half the plain oat milk — just reduce the sweetener to balance the cocoa. These small tweaks let you enjoy the season’s favourite drink in endless ways.

• Add a dash of vanilla or almond extract for extra depth.
• Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for presentation.
• Use a reusable straw for iced versions to reduce waste.

Why Homemade Beats Store-Bought Every Time

While it’s tempting to grab a PSL from the drive-through, homemade versions have several advantages. You control the quality of ingredients — no artificial flavours, preservatives, or excessive sugar. A typical 16-ounce café PSL can contain 50 grams of sugar, while this homemade version uses just 10-15 grams from natural sources like maple syrup and pumpkin. Plus, you’re supporting a more sustainable choice by using oat milk, which has a lower carbon footprint than dairy.

Another bonus: you can make it exactly to your taste. Love extra foam? Froth longer. Prefer a stronger coffee flavour? Add a double shot. And since you’re using shelf-stable oat milk cases like the Barista Oat Milk (6-pack) or Unsweetened Original Oat Milk (6-pack), you can whip up a PSL anytime the craving strikes — no need to brave the autumn chill. Once you master this recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever paid £5 for a coffee shop version.

• Homemade PSLs save money — about £3-4 per drink compared to café prices.
• You can adjust sweetness and spice intensity to your preference.
• Oat milk is shelf-stable, so you can stock up for the whole season.

Now that you know how to make a pumpkin spice latte with oat milk, it’s time to embrace the season. Grab a pack of Barista Oat Milk (6-pack) and your favourite fall mug — this creamy, dairy-free PSL will become your go-to comfort drink all autumn long.