It’s a pumpkin spice frenzy this fall. From cough suppressants and lip balm to boxes of fettuccini, pumpkin spice is flavoring all kinds of foods and scenting a wide array of products. Who can resist? The mix of cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg is warm and comforting when autumn’s chill sets in. There’s even a company that sells pumpkin spice detail spray for your car! You can try it all. But, chances are you’ll still come back to the place where it all started – a classic cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte.
Get Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Fix the Healthy Way
When you crave that steamy mug of flavor, you have two choices. Go to a coffee shop and order one or make your own at home. If you choose the coffee shop route, be warned. Pumpkin Lattes can be high-calorie sugar bombs.
To Order a Healthy Version of the Drink, Try This:
– Ask for skim or fat-free milk in your latte instead of pre-flavored creamer or whole milk. Or order it with a low fat non-dairy alternative like almond milk.
– Forego a dollop of sweetened whipped cream on top. Instead, ask the barista to finish it off with frothed fat-free milk.
– Find out what’s in the pumpkin purée that’s added to the cup. Some pre-packaged pumpkin purées have additives. If it’s sweetened, consider asking for just a little portion to be added or forgo it entirely and just appreciate the spice.
– Order a small size.
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The other alternative is to make your own Pumpkin Spice Latte. There are several advantages to this. You will know exactly what is in it. It will be cheaper. And you won’t be holding up any lines with a special order!
Here’s a Simple PSL Recipe You Can Whip Up in 10 Minutes or Less:
Serves size: 4
Step 1
Make the spice mix by grinding together
– 1-2 cloves
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Step 2
Brew a strong pot of coffee.
Step 3
Whisk together in saucepan over low heat until smooth and hot
– 2 cups of your favorite milk or non-dairy milk product
– 2 cups coffee
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice mix
– 2-4 tablespoons of your favorite sweetener. (Maple syrup pairs well with the spices.)
– 3-4 tablespoons canned (or fresh purée) pumpkin
Pour into mugs.
Step 4
The beauty of making PSL at home is that you can decide whether or not to top your concoction off with whipped cream or explore healthier alternatives. There are easy ways to make whipped toppings out of coconut cream, cashew milk, and matcha. If you have a cappuccino maker, you can froth your favorite milk for the top.
Step 5
Finish by sprinkling a bit more pumpkin spice on top.
Hug your mug and fall into the flavor like a PSL fanatic.
