This Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is creamy, cozy, and so easy to make at home.
It tastes like fall in a cup, but it is still cool and refreshing.
The pumpkin foam is smooth, lightly sweet, and full of warm spice.
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this when I wanted that coffee shop pumpkin drink without leaving the house. The first time I made it, I was shocked at how close it tasted. The foam was soft, sweet, and full of pumpkin spice. Now it feels like a little treat I can make any morning.
- It tastes fancy but is very easy.
- You can make it sweeter or less sweet.
- The pumpkin cream feels rich without being too heavy.
- It uses real pumpkin puree.
- It costs less than buying one out.
Servings and Time
Makes 2 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 2 cups cold brew coffee
- 1 cup ice
- Extra pumpkin pie spice, for topping
Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Cream
In a medium bowl, add 1 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup whole milk, 3 tablespoons pumpkin puree, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice.
Step 2: Froth Until Thick
Use a handheld milk frother to whip the pumpkin cream for 30 to 45 seconds, until it looks thick, smooth, and lightly fluffy.
Step 3: Add Ice and Cold Brew
Fill 2 tall glasses with 1 cup ice total. Pour 2 cups cold brew coffee evenly into the glasses.
Step 4: Spoon on the Pumpkin Cream
Spoon the thick pumpkin cream over the cold brew. Let it float on top.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle a little extra pumpkin pie spice on top. Serve right away.
Pro Tips
- Use cold heavy cream so the foam gets thicker.
- Do not use pumpkin pie filling. Use plain pumpkin puree.
- Froth right before serving for the best fluffy top.
- Add more maple syrup if you like it sweet.
- Stir before drinking if you want pumpkin flavor in every sip.
Tools Needed
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Medium mixing bowl
- Handheld milk frother
- Spoon
- 2 tall glasses
Substitutions and Variations
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter foam.
- Use oat milk instead of whole milk.
- Use brown sugar syrup instead of maple syrup.
- Add a pinch of salt for a stronger flavor.
- Use decaf cold brew if needed.
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the pumpkin cream base up to 2 days ahead. Keep it in the fridge. Froth it right before serving so it gets fluffy.
Macros Information
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 300
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 25g
- Sugar: 15g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Heavy cream has enough fat to trap air when you froth it. That makes the foam thick and smooth. Pumpkin puree adds body, so the cream sits nicely on top of the cold brew. Maple syrup blends in fast and gives a warm sweet flavor.
Common Mistakes
- Using warm cream makes the foam thin.
- Using too much pumpkin can make the foam heavy.
- Skipping the frother makes it less fluffy.
- Pouring the foam too fast can make it sink.
- Using pumpkin pie filling can make it too sweet.
What to Serve With
- Banana bread
- Pumpkin muffins
- Cinnamon toast
- Bagels with cream cheese
- Apple slices with peanut butter
Leftovers and Storage
Store extra pumpkin cream in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake it, then froth again before using. Do not store the finished drink with ice because it will get watery.
FAQ
Q: Can I use regular coffee?
A: Yes. Chill strong brewed coffee first, then use it like cold brew.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use full-fat coconut cream and oat milk.
Q: Can I make it sweeter?
A: Yes. Add 1 more tablespoon maple syrup.
Q: Can I make this without a frother?
A: Yes. Shake the cream mixture in a sealed jar until thick.
Q: Can I use pumpkin pie filling?
A: No. It is already sweetened and spiced, so the flavor may be too strong.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is simple, cozy, and fun to make at home. Try it once, then make it your own with more spice, more sweetness, or extra cold brew. Leave a comment with how it turned out or any questions you have.
