Name: Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk (or non-dairy milk of choice); 2 chai tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose-leaf chai tea); ⅓ cup pumpkin puree; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, to taste); 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 4 ounces bourbon or spiced rum (1 ounce per serving; adjust to taste); Whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, or star anise for garnish (optional)

Pumpkin spice season just got a delicious upgrade with this absolutely dreamy Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte! Imagine velvety, creamy steamed milk infused with rich pumpkin, sweet maple, warming chai spices, and a generous splash of smooth bourbon or spiced rum. It's decadent, cozy, and playfully boozy-the liquid hug your fall gatherings have been missing.

This recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves classic pumpkin spice everything, but wants something a little more grown-up and fun. It's super easy to whip up on a crisp afternoon or for impromptu holiday parties. Just simmer, pour, and cheers!

Inspired by my own autumn brunches and bonfire nights, this latte is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting friends or just treating yourself on a chilly day, it's the perfect reason to dust off those cute mugs. Trust me, one sip and you'll be craving sweater weather all year long!

Creamy Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte in a mug with cinnamon stick and star anise garnish

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Serves up major cozy vibes with every sip-rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced.
Easily doubles (or triples!) for a crowd, making it ideal for holiday parties.
A fun, grown-up twist on the classic pumpkin spice latte everyone craves.
Ready in just 20 minutes with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
Customizable-make it booze-free, dairy-free, or extra spicy to suit your mood!

Key Ingredients for Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin puree is the superstar here, giving the latte its signature autumnal flavor and creamy texture. Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best results. If you want your drink extra smooth, you can press the puree through a fine mesh strainer. For a twist, try roasting fresh pumpkin and blending it for even more depth.

Chai Tea

Chai tea infuses the latte with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Use your favorite strong chai tea bags or loose-leaf-either works! Brew it strong for bolder flavor. You could also substitute with a caffeine-free rooibos chai if desired.

Pumpkin Pie Spice

Pumpkin pie spice gives the drink that iconic fall aroma and warmth. Store-bought works perfectly, or make your own blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. For a more intense flavor, add a little extra cinnamon or a pinch of black pepper.

Bourbon or Spiced Rum

This is where the fun begins! Bourbon adds vanilla and caramel notes, while spiced rum brings a hint of molasses and additional spice. You can adjust the amount to your taste, or omit it entirely for a delicious non-alcoholic version. Irish whiskey or brandy would also work well.

Milk

Whole milk creates a luxuriously creamy latte, but feel free to use any milk you love-dairy or plant-based! Oat and almond milk are wonderful dairy-free choices, and coconut milk adds a lovely richness. Froth it well for that coffeehouse feel.

Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte cooking process

Instructions for Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Brew the Chai Tea

In a small saucepan, heat milk over medium-low heat until just steaming, but not boiling. Add the chai tea bags, cover, and steep for 4-5 minutes until the milk is fragrant and infused.

Mix in Pumpkin and Spices

Remove the tea bags, then whisk in the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, brown sugar (if using), pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Continue to heat, whisking frequently, until everything is smooth and hot, about 2-3 minutes.

Add the Booze

Remove from heat. Stir in the bourbon or spiced rum. Taste and adjust sweetness or booze level as desired.

Serve and Garnish

Pour the spiked pumpkin chai latte into mugs. Top generously with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a cinnamon stick or star anise if you're feeling fancy. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!

Recipe Variations

Make It Dairy-Free

Swap out the whole milk for a rich plant-based milk like coconut, oat, or unsweetened almond. Coconut milk makes it ultra-creamy and a bit tropical, while oat milk keeps it classic and neutral.

Go Booze-Free

Craving a cozy nightcap without the alcohol? Simply skip the bourbon or rum. You'll still get all the festive fall flavor, and it's perfect for everyone-kids included!

Spice It Up

Add an extra pinch of fresh ginger, a dash of cayenne, or a crack of black pepper for those who love a bold, spicy latte. Play with your own custom spice blend for a signature house version.

Maple Overload

Double the maple syrup and skip the brown sugar for an extra maple-rich drink. Top with a drizzle of maple syrup over whipped cream for a seriously decadent treat.

Try a Different Spirit

Switch up the booze! Brandy or Irish whiskey adds a different character. Or, try pumpkin-flavored liqueur for double the pumpkin punch.

Serving Suggestions

This Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte pairs beautifully with cozy fall snacks like spiced shortbread cookies, apple pie, or pumpkin muffins. Serve in big mugs with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a cinnamon stick for the ultimate Instagram-worthy presentation. Freshly grated nutmeg or star anise make gorgeous garnishes for a luxurious touch.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover spiked pumpkin chai latte (without garnishes) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to reheat, warm gently in a saucepan on low heat, stirring often and making sure not to boil, as this can affect the texture and flavor. For best results, add the booze just before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as dairy and pumpkin can separate and become grainy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Prepare the latte base (without alcohol or garnishes) and chill. Just before serving, reheat and add the bourbon or rum.

Q: What alcohol is best in a pumpkin chai latte?

A: Bourbon and spiced rum are classic choices, but Irish whiskey, brandy, or even pumpkin liqueur work well too. Adjust to your taste!

Q: Can I use coffee instead of chai?

A: Absolutely. Swap the chai tea for a strong brewed coffee to make a Spiked Pumpkin Coffee Latte with a similar vibe and caffeine kick.

Ready to cozy up with the most luscious, festive mug of fall? Give this Spiked Pumpkin Chai Latte recipe a try and discover your new favorite party drink! If you love it, let me know in the comments or leave a rating-I can't wait to hear how you make it your own.

★★★★★ 4.80 from 186 ratings