As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s one iconic beverage that signals the arrival of autumn: the pumpkin spice latte. While the Starbucks version is delicious, it’s often loaded with sugar and calories. It’s not the best beverage for someone following a medical weight loss plan. But fear not! You can enjoy this seasonal treat in a healthier way by making your own at home. Here’s a simple recipe to satisfy your pumpkin spice cravings without compromising your health goals.
Ingredients:
1 cup of brewed coffee or espresso
1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred milk)
2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of ground cinnamon (for garnish)
Whipped cream (optional, but keep it light or use a dairy-free alternative)
Instructions:
- Brew Your Coffee: Start by brewing a cup of your favorite coffee or a shot of espresso. You can use a coffee maker, French press, or even instant coffee.
- Mix the Pumpkin Spice: In a small saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup over low heat. Stir until the mixture is well-blended and heated through, but be careful not to boil it.
- Warm the Milk: In another small saucepan, warm the almond milk over low heat. You can also heat it in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Make sure it’s warm but not boiling.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or using a hand frother, combine the brewed coffee, warmed pumpkin mixture, warmed almond milk, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture becomes creamy and frothy.
- Pour and Garnish: Pour your homemade pumpkin spice latte into a mug. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream (if desired) and a pinch of ground cinnamon for that classic Starbucks touch.
- Enjoy: Sip and savor the cozy, fall-inspired flavors of your homemade pumpkin spice latte. Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup if needed.
Why It’s Healthier:
- Controlled Sugar: This homemade version allows you to control the sweetness by using pure maple syrup instead of syrupy pumpkin spice sauce, which can be loaded with sugar.
- Real Pumpkin: You get the benefits of real pumpkin puree, which is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Lower Calories: By using unsweetened almond milk and a lighter hand with the whipped cream (or skipping it altogether), you can enjoy the flavors without excess calories.
With this healthier pumpkin spice latte recipe, you can indulge in the cozy flavors of fall without derailing your medical weight loss plan. Plus, the satisfaction of making it yourself adds an extra layer of warmth to this seasonal treat. For more advice on following your eating plan without sacrificing all of your favorite foods, call our office to schedule a consultation.
