Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

This Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is the perfect drink to enjoy during the fall. Combining elements from two beloved Starbucks treats, this recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin pie flavor and rich espresso. It’s ideal for cozy mornings or as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up. With its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation, you’ll be sipping on autumn in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: Experience the comforting taste of pumpkin spice combined with brown sugar, creating a deliciously sweet drink.
• Quick Prep: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this decadent espresso treat without any hassle.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness and creaminess with your preferred amount of oat milk and syrup based on your taste.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe uses oat milk and can be made without animal products, making it suitable for everyone.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly morning or a gathering with friends, this drink fits any setting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything in place will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Espresso machine or French press
• Small saucepan
• Sealable jar (for shaking)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Espresso machine or French press: Essential for brewing rich double shots of espresso that form the base of your drink.
• Small saucepan: Used to create the flavorful pumpkin brown sugar syrup that elevates your espresso experience.

Ingredients

This Pumpkin Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso combines the two best Starbucks drinks: a pumpkin spice latte & a brown sugar oatmilk shaken espresso!

Creamy and full of pumpkin pie flavor, this shaken espresso tastes like fall in a cup.

Coffee Ingredients

• 2 double shots of blonde espresso
• 1-2 cups ice cubes

Syrup Ingredients

• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks or 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
• ½ cup warm water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp maple extract (optional)

Milk Ingredients

• Cold oat milk, to taste

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup

In a small saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon sticks (or pumpkin pie spice), and warm water.

Step 2: Simmer the Mixture

Simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the syrup begins to thicken.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and maple extract if you’re using it. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the syrup through a fine metal sieve to remove cinnamon pieces.

Step 4: Store Your Syrup

Store any leftover syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Step 5: Shake Your Espresso

In a sealable jar, add one double shot of freshly brewed espresso along with 1-2 tablespoons of your prepared pumpkin brown sugar syrup. Add 4-5 ice cubes, seal the jar tightly, and shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.

Step 6: Serve Your Espresso

Pour the shaken espresso mixture into your drinking glass while leaving out any ice cubes.

Step 7: Add Ice

Add fresh ice cubes to your glass filled with espresso.

Step 8: Pour Oat Milk

Pour cold oat milk over your espresso mixture according to your preference.

Step 9: Garnish

Dust with additional pumpkin pie spice to enhance flavor and presentation.

Enjoy every sip of your homemade Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso can be as delightful as making it. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this fall-inspired drink.

For a Cozy Morning

• Pair with warm pastries – Enjoy alongside a freshly baked croissant or muffin for a comforting breakfast.
• Serve with oatmeal – A bowl of spiced oatmeal complements the flavors perfectly, making for a wholesome start to your day.

Afternoon Refreshment

• Add a splash of whipped cream – Top your espresso with whipped cream for an indulgent treat that feels like dessert.
• Garnish with extra spices – Sprinkle more pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top for an aromatic touch.

Perfect for Gatherings

• Create a coffee bar – Set up a station with various toppings like chocolate shavings, whipped cream, and flavored syrups for guests to customize their drinks.
• Serve in festive mugs – Use seasonal mugs to enhance the experience and add a cozy vibe to your gatherings.

Desserts and Treats

• Complement with chocolate cake – The rich flavors of chocolate cake pair wonderfully with the spiced notes of your espresso.
• Enjoy with cookies – Classic sugar cookies or gingerbread cookies make delightful companions to your drink.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

To ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture in your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso, consider these helpful tips.

• Use freshly brewed espresso – Brew your espresso right before using it for maximum flavor and freshness.
• Adjust sweetness – Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your personal preference for sweetness.
• Chill your glass – Pre-chill your serving glass to keep the drink cold longer without diluting it too quickly.
• Experiment with milk alternatives – Try different plant-based milks like almond or coconut milk for unique flavor variations.
• Add ice gradually – Control the dilution by adding ice cubes one at a time while shaking to find your ideal balance.
• Strain if preferred – If you don’t enjoy any texture from spices, strain your syrup for a smoother finish.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Complementing your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso with delicious side dishes enhances its rich flavors. Here’s a list of perfect pairings.

1. Pumpkin Muffins – Moist and fluffy, these muffins beautifully echo the pumpkin flavor in your drink.
2. Cinnamon Buns – Sweet, sticky cinnamon rolls bring warmth and comfort, making them an excellent choice alongside your espresso.
3. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter – Fresh apple slices provide crunch and sweetness, while peanut butter adds protein and richness.
4. Granola Bars – A chewy granola bar offers a satisfying bite that balances the creamy texture of the shaken espresso.
5. Chocolate Chip Cookies – The classic combination of chocolate and coffee is hard to beat; these cookies will satisfy any sweet tooth.
6. Spiced Nuts – A mix of roasted nuts seasoned with spices creates a savory contrast that pairs well with the drink’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using ground spices: Ground pumpkin pie spice can create a gritty texture in your drink. Opt for cinnamon sticks instead for smoother results.
• Not measuring ingredients: Skipping the measurements can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always use precise amounts for the best taste.
• Skipping the syrup-making step: This syrup adds depth and sweetness. Don’t skip it; it’s key to achieving the right flavor profile.
• Using hot espresso: Adding hot espresso directly into ice can dilute your drink. Let your espresso cool slightly before mixing.
• Ignoring storage tips: Not storing leftover syrup properly can spoil it quickly. Use an airtight container and keep it refrigerated.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin brown sugar syrup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to one week in the fridge.
• Make sure to label with the date for reference.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

• Pour leftover syrup into ice cube trays and freeze.
• Once frozen, transfer cubes to a zip-top bag for easy use later.
• Frozen syrup cubes can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place syrup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place syrup in a microwave-safe container, heat in 10-second intervals until warm, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the syrup while stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso:

Can I use regular milk instead of oat milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk or any non-dairy milk of your choice. Oat milk complements the pumpkin flavor well, but feel free to experiment!

How do I make this drink vegan?

To make your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso vegan, ensure you use plant-based milk and omit any dairy toppings like whipped cream.

What if I don’t have blonde espresso?

If blonde espresso isn’t available, you can use regular espresso or strong brewed coffee as a substitute. The flavor will differ slightly but still be delicious!

Can I customize my Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso?

Absolutely! You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, or even try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for varied flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of fall. Its creamy texture and rich pumpkin taste make it a perfect pick-me-up any time of day. Feel free to customize it with your favorite milk or spice levels for a truly personalized beverage experience!