Introduction: Why Make a Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew at Home?
There’s nothing quite like that first sip of a Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew to kick off the fall season. With its smooth, chilled coffee and luxuriously creamy pumpkin-spiced topping, it’s no wonder this drink has become one of the most beloved seasonal treats at Starbucks. But what if we told you that you could make a version that’s not only just as good—but actually better—at home?
Yes, the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew recipe we’re about to share is rich, cozy, and loaded with autumn vibes. It’s incredibly easy to make, far more affordable, and customizable to suit your taste buds—whether you’re looking to go sugar-free, dairy-free, or even keto.
This guide isn’t just about mixing a few ingredients in a cup; it’s about crafting an elevated café-quality experience right in your own kitchen. By the time you reach the end of this post, you’ll know everything from brewing your own cold coffee to whipping up the perfect pumpkin foam—and we’ll walk you through it all step-by-step.
Let’s get brewing!
What Is Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew?
If you’ve never had the Starbucks version before, let’s break it down. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is a refreshing iced coffee drink topped with a thick, sweet, pumpkin-spiced cream. It’s essentially a cold brew coffee base layered with a soft cloud of pumpkin-flavored whipped cream, finished with a dash of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.
Unlike a traditional pumpkin spice latte, which is made with hot espresso and steamed milk, this drink is cold and less sugary, allowing the true coffee flavor to shine through. The pumpkin cream slowly infuses into the cold brew as you sip, giving you a balanced taste of bold coffee and autumnal sweetness.
Making your own Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew recipe at home gives you full control over every element—whether you want to adjust the sweetness, try different spices, or skip the dairy altogether. It’s budget-friendly, healthier, and honestly more satisfying when made from scratch.
Ingredients for the Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew Recipe
To create the ultimate homemade Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
For the Cold Brew Base:
- 1 ½ cups cold brew coffee: You can use store-bought cold brew or make your own (we’ll cover both options below).
- Ice cubes: Essential for chilling the drink.
For the Pumpkin Cream Topping:
- ½ cup heavy cream: This creates the luxurious texture of the pumpkin foam. Substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée: Not pumpkin pie filling—just pure pumpkin to give that natural, earthy sweetness and color.
- 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or keto-friendly sweetener: Adjust based on your taste preference. Maple syrup gives a warm, rich flavor that complements the pumpkin.
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: The signature spice blend that delivers those cozy fall vibes.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the pumpkin and cream.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste.
Optional Garnish:
- Pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for dusting: A finishing touch that makes your drink feel professionally made.
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew (Step-by-Step)
Ready to craft your drink? Let’s walk through the process of making your Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew recipe from start to finish.
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Cream
Start with the topping—it’s what makes this drink special.
- In a bowl or small blender, add:
- ½ cup heavy cream (or your chosen alternative)
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée
- 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or sweetener
- ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Blend or froth until the mixture is thickened and slightly whipped. It should still be pourable, like a soft whipped cream. You don’t want stiff peaks—just enough structure so it floats over the coffee.
🔥 Pro Tip: No frother? Just shake the mixture vigorously in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid or whisk it by hand for a minute or two until foamy.
Step 2: Assemble the Drink
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in 1 ½ cups cold brew coffee.
- Spoon or slowly pour the pumpkin cream over the coffee so it rests beautifully on top.
- Finish with a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for that barista-level touch.
Now take a step back and admire your masterpiece. It’s smooth, layered, aromatic, and undeniably Instagram-worthy.
How to Make Cold Brew at Home
While you can easily use bottled cold brew, making your own allows you to experiment with different coffee beans and strengths. Here’s a basic method to try:
DIY Cold Brew Instructions:
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee
- 4 cups cold filtered water
- Instructions:
- Combine coffee and water in a large jar or French press.
- Stir, cover, and let sit at room temperature or in the fridge for 12–24 hours.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- Store in the fridge for up to a week.
This yields a cold brew concentrate, so you can dilute it with water or milk as preferred.
Tips & Variations to Customize Your Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
One of the biggest perks of the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew recipe is its flexibility. Want to cut sugar? Go keto? Make it spicy or even boozy? Here are some ways to switch things up:
Make It Sugar-Free:
Use keto-friendly sweeteners like:
- Monk fruit
- Stevia
- Erythritol
These options blend well into both the cream and coffee.
Try Different Milks:
For a dairy-free version, swap out the heavy cream with:
- Coconut cream (richest texture)
- Oat milk (very smooth and slightly sweet)
- Almond milk (light and nutty)
Intensify the Spice:
Add a pinch of nutmeg, clove, or even cardamom for deeper, warming flavor layers.
Make It a Pumpkin Cream Latte:
Instead of letting the cream float on top, stir it directly into the cold brew for a blended drink that’s more like an iced latte.
Serve It Hot (Yes, Really!):
While this recipe is technically for a cold drink, you can use the same pumpkin cream topping over a hot brewed coffee or espresso if you’re in the mood for warmth.
Add a Boozy Kick:
Mix in a splash of Kahlúa, Baileys, or pumpkin spice liqueur for an adult-friendly fall cocktail.
Healthier Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew Options
Starbucks’ version clocks in at over 250 calories per grande serving, most of which comes from sugar and cream. But when you make your own Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew recipe, you can make it as healthy (or as indulgent) as you want.
Low-Calorie Tips:
- Use half-and-half or non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream.
- Go easy on the sweetener—or skip it entirely.
- Use cold brew concentrate and dilute it more to cut caffeine.
Keto-Friendly Tips:
- Use unsweetened coconut cream.
- Sweeten with stevia or monk fruit.
- Add MCT oil or collagen peptides to make it a fat-fueled morning treat.
Storing and Prepping Ahead
Want to make your mornings even easier? You can prep some of the components in advance.
Pumpkin Cream Storage:
- Store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Shake or stir before using as it may separate slightly.
Cold Brew Storage:
- Keep homemade cold brew in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Make a large batch and enjoy it all week long.
You can even mix up individual servings and store them in jars so all you have to do is grab one and go.
FAQs About Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
1. Can I make this without a blender or frother?
Yes! You can shake the pumpkin cream in a mason jar or use a whisk. It may not be quite as fluffy, but it still works beautifully.
2. Is pumpkin purée the same as pumpkin pie filling?
No. Use 100% pumpkin purée—not the sweetened, spiced pie filling.
3. Can I use hot coffee instead of cold brew?
Technically yes, but it will change the drink. This recipe is best served cold to keep the cream from melting too quickly.
4. Is it okay to make this ahead of time?
You can prep the pumpkin cream and cold brew separately. Assemble just before drinking for the best texture and appearance.
5. How do I make it taste just like Starbucks?
Use high-quality cold brew and don’t skimp on the pumpkin pie spice! Maple syrup also helps recreate that signature flavor.
6. Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk or cream and a vegan-friendly sweetener like maple syrup or agave.
Conclusion: Skip the Line, Savor the Season
Making your own Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew recipe isn’t just a money-saver—it’s a vibe. You get to control the ingredients, tweak the flavor, and feel like a barista in your own kitchen. Whether you’re sipping on a chilly fall morning, prepping a pitcher for a brunch crowd, or simply indulging in a solo pumpkin moment, this drink delivers the cozy-caffeine combo we all crave when autumn hits.
So skip the Starbucks drive-thru. This year, your new favorite fall drink is coming straight from your own kitchen—and it tastes even better than the original.