Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Recipe Perfect for Fall

Imagine this: the rich, smooth flavor of cold brew coffee infused with the warm, comforting spices of fall. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this irresistible pumpkin spice cold brew concentrate recipe. It’s a game-changer for coffee lovers who want to savor the seasonal magic without the fuss of a coffee shop visit. Whether you’re cozying up with a blanket or hosting a brunch, this recipe will bring those autumn vibes straight to your cup.

I first created this recipe during a crisp October morning when I was craving my favorite café-style pumpkin spice coffee but didn’t want to leave the house. After a few trials (and several overly spiced batches), I finally nailed the perfect balance of pumpkin spice and coffee. Trust me, once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.

The beauty of this pumpkin spice cold brew concentrate is that it’s customizable and works for everyone. Need a caffeine kick? Add more cold brew. Want to keep it dairy-free? Swap in your favorite milk alternative. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it all week long. So, grab your favorite mug, and let’s bring the fall season to life with this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You don’t need fancy equipment or barista skills. This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly!
• Perfect for Fall: It’s everything you love about autumn in a single cup—cozy, warm spices paired with smooth cold brew.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer it sweeter, creamier, or extra strong, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Skip the expensive coffee shop visits and make this delicious drink at home for a fraction of the cost.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Whip up a batch of concentrate and enjoy pumpkin spice cold brew all week long!

What sets this recipe apart is the homemade pumpkin spice syrup that blends seamlessly with the cold brew. The syrup is rich, aromatic, and perfectly spiced, giving your coffee a depth of flavor that’s far superior to anything you’d get from the store. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness and spice levels to make it truly your own. It’s the ultimate treat for elevating your coffee game this fall!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, approachable ingredients to create a coffee experience that’s anything but ordinary.

For the Cold Brew Concentrate:

• Coarsely ground coffee: Use your favorite medium or dark roast for a bold flavor.
• Cold, filtered water: Ensures the cleanest taste.

For the Pumpkin Spice Syrup:

• Pumpkin puree: Canned or homemade, just make sure it’s plain pumpkin—not pumpkin pie filling.
• Brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Vanilla extract: A must-have for warm, rich undertones.
• Pumpkin pie spice: The star of the show! A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
• Water: To thin out the syrup.

For Serving:

• Milk or milk alternative: Creamy oat milk, almond milk, or dairy milk—pick your favorite.
• Ice cubes: Optional but refreshing for a true cold brew experience.

Equipment Needed

• Large jar or pitcher: For brewing the cold brew coffee. Mason jars work perfectly too.
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth: To filter out the coffee grounds.
• Small saucepan: You’ll need this to make the pumpkin spice syrup.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the syrup ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements.
• Coffee scoop: Optional, but handy for measuring out your coffee grounds.

Don’t worry if you don’t have all these tools. For example, if you don’t have a fine mesh strainer, a clean kitchen towel can work as a DIY filter. And if you’re missing a large pitcher, any sizable container will do!

Preparation Method

To Make the Cold Brew Concentrate:

1. In a large jar or pitcher, combine 1 cup (85 grams) of coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups (960 ml) of cold, filtered water. Stir gently to ensure all the grounds are saturated.
2. Cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor will be.
3. After steeping, strain the coffee using a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter. Discard the grounds and transfer the cold brew concentrate to a clean container. Store in the fridge for up to 7 days.

To Make the Pumpkin Spice Syrup:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar, and 1/3 cup (75 grams) pumpkin puree.
2. Whisk in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the syrup cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a clean jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

To Assemble the Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of the cold brew concentrate into the glass.
3. Add 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pumpkin spice syrup and stir well.
4. Top with 1/2 cup (120 ml) of your favorite milk or milk alternative for a creamy finish.
5. Give it a final stir, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for that extra fall flair. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to make your pumpkin spice cold brew absolutely perfect:

• Choose the right coffee: A medium to dark roast works best for cold brew. Lighter roasts can taste acidic when brewed cold.
• Don’t rush the brewing process: Allow the coffee grounds to steep for at least 12 hours to extract maximum flavor.
• Keep the syrup smooth: Use a whisk to ensure the pumpkin puree blends evenly with the sugar and water.
• Taste and adjust: If you prefer a stronger pumpkin spice flavor, add more syrup to your coffee. For less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup.
• Use filtered water: It makes a noticeable difference in the clarity and taste of your cold brew.

Remember, the magic is in the details. A little sprinkle of cinnamon on top or a cute glass can make your pumpkin spice cold brew feel extra special!

Variations & Adaptations

• Make it vegan: Swap the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the pumpkin spice syrup for a unique twist.
• Low-calorie option: Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener or stevia in the pumpkin spice syrup.
• Warm it up: Heat the cold brew and add the pumpkin spice syrup and steamed milk for a cozy hot latte version.
• Extra indulgent: Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel or sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a dessert-like treat.

Personally, I love making it with oat milk—it’s creamy and complements the pumpkin spice perfectly!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This pumpkin spice cold brew is best served over ice with a splash of milk or milk alternative. For an extra treat, you can garnish it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg—it’s like a café-quality drink in the comfort of your home!

If you’re serving guests, consider presenting the cold brew in clear glasses to show off the beautiful layers of coffee, milk, and syrup. Pair it with fall-inspired treats like apple scones or pumpkin muffins to complete the autumn vibe.

Store the cold brew concentrate in the fridge for up to a week, and the pumpkin spice syrup can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. If you’re making a larger batch, you can even freeze the syrup in ice cube trays for future use. To reheat the syrup, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop before adding it to your coffee.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional benefits and considerations for this recipe:

• Calories: Approximately 90 per serving, depending on the amount of syrup and milk used.
• Pumpkin puree: Packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamins A and C.
• Brown sugar: Provides a natural sweetness that’s less refined than white sugar.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Low in fat: If using a milk alternative like almond milk, this recipe is low in saturated fat.

Note that this recipe contains caffeine and sugar, so enjoy in moderation if you’re sensitive to either!

Conclusion

The irresistible pumpkin spice cold brew recipe is a celebration of fall’s flavors in every sip. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for anyone who loves a little seasonal flair in their coffee. Whether you’re sipping it at home on a chilly morning or serving it at a festive gathering, this recipe is bound to become a seasonal favorite.

Give it a try and make it your own! Add extra spices, adjust the sweetness, or experiment with different milk options. I’d love to hear how you make it your own—let me know in the comments or tag me if you share your creation on social media!

Now, go grab your ingredients, brew up some magic, and enjoy the warm embrace of fall in every sip. Happy pumpkin spice season!

FAQs

Can I use pre-ground coffee for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee, but make sure it’s coarse ground for the best results.

How long does the cold brew concentrate last?

Stored in the fridge, the concentrate can last for up to a week.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that may throw off the flavor balance. Stick to plain pumpkin puree.

What’s the best milk alternative for this recipe?

Oat milk is a favorite for its creamy texture, but almond or coconut milk works well too.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as your pumpkin puree and spices don’t contain any hidden gluten additives.

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