My Fave Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte

This Creamy Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte is the ultimate fall coffeehouse drink you can make at home—smooth, spiced, and perfectly refreshing. Bold espresso or coffee is poured over ice and layered with a homemade pumpkin chai creamer made from real pumpkin purée, chai tea, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice. Finished with almond milk (or your favorite plant-based or dairy milk) and topped with whipped cream, it’s a cozy-meets-cool drink that combines the warmth of chai with the richness of pumpkin and coffee. Dairy-free, Vegan, Decaf, + Make Ahead option.

It’s the season for iced drinks, and this Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte is simply amazing! I’ve been loving making homemade lattes at home lately—especially with almond or oat milk! It's not only easy but also lets me control exactly what goes into my drink which I love! Dairy-free, customizable, and naturally sweetened, this dirty chai latte is perfect for pumpkin spice lovers who want a café-worthy drink without leaving the house.

I decided to try the 'dirty' version of chai tea a little while back—basically adding coffee—and I’m so glad I did which is what inspired this pumpkin spice version! The blend of chai spices with bold coffee flavors and pumpkin spice creates a delicious combo that’s hard to beat---trust me. It's no secret that I love anything flavored with chai and if you do too, try my Dirty Chai Maple Iced Latte, Vegan Chai Ginger Bread,  Dirty Chai Oatmeal Porridge and a fan favorite Vegan Chai Latte Cinnamon Rolls!

What Is Dirty Chai?

When you hear "dirty chai" a lot comes to mind! Don't worry no dirt involved—just a delightful blend of chai tea and espresso. The blend offers a unique + delightful fusion of spicy chai flavors with the boldness of espresso, creating a harmonious balance between the aromatic spices and the rich coffee taste.

Jump to:

• What Is Dirty Chai?
• Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte
• How To Make My Fave Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte
• Ingredients
• Best Coffee Options for Pumpkin Dirty Chai Latte
• Tips for the Best Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte
• How to Make Pumpkin Purée from Scratch
• Best Add-On Ingredients for Pumpkin Dirty Chai Latte
• When to Serve Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte
• Common Q + A's for Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte
• More Favorite Pumpkin-infused Recipes
• MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
• My Fave Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte

• Coffeehouse quality at home. Save money and skip the line with a drink that tastes better than Starbucks.
• Seasonal fall flavor. Pumpkin purée, chai spices, and maple syrup make every sip taste like autumn in a cup.
• Customizable. Easily adjust the sweetness, milk, or coffee strength to match your taste.
• Vegan + dairy-free friendly. Works with almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk, plus dairy-free whipped cream.
• Enjoy it iced or hot. Refreshing over ice for warm afternoons, or cozy it up by serving hot on chilly mornings.
• Meal prep approved. The pumpkin chai creamer can be made ahead for quick lattes all week.
• Instagram-worthy. Whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice make this latte picture-perfect.

How To Make My Fave Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte

This pumpkin chai tea latte recipe comes together in a saucepan on the stove for the chai tea component, blended together for the creamer and then stirred together with the remaining ingredients for a luscious creamy sip. It’s full of classic chai spices + black tea + pumpkin spice.

Ingredients

• Chai tea. The foundation of the pumpkin chai creamer, adding warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. You can use tea bags, loose-leaf chai, or even a chai concentrate for convenience. Rooibos chai works well for a caffeine-free option.
• Pumpkin purée. Brings natural creaminess, subtle sweetness, and that classic fall pumpkin flavor. Be sure to use pure pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling). Butternut squash purée or sweet potato purée make great alternatives.
• Maple syrup. Naturally sweetens the creamer with a caramel-like depth that pairs perfectly with pumpkin. Substitute with honey (if not vegan), agave nectar, or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Vanilla extract. Enhances sweetness and ties together the warm chai and pumpkin flavors. Almond extract can be used for a nuttier twist.
• Pumpkin pie spice. A cozy mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that creates the ultimate fall flavor. You can substitute with chai spice or make your own blend if needed.
• Espresso or strong coffee. Adds boldness and balances the sweetness of the creamer. Cold brew coffee works for a smoother, less acidic flavor. For a caffeine-free version, use decaf espresso or chicory coffee.
• Vanilla syrup. Adds an extra layer of sweetness and café-style flavor. You can make your own with sugar, water, and vanilla extract or substitute with caramel syrup or brown sugar syrup.
• Almond milk. Keeps the latte dairy-free and light. Oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or whole milk can also be used depending on your preference. Oat milk makes the creamiest latte, while coconut milk adds a tropical hint.
• Pumpkin chai creamer. The star of this latte, blending pumpkin purée, chai tea, spices, and maple syrup for a smooth, spiced base. Store-bought pumpkin spice creamer can be used in a pinch, but homemade tastes fresher and richer.
• Crushed ice. Essential for that refreshing iced latte feel. You can also use coffee ice cubes to prevent the drink from watering down.
• Whipped cream. A decadent topping that makes this drink coffeehouse-worthy. Use dairy whipped cream, coconut whipped cream, or skip it for a lighter option. A sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top makes it picture-perfect.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS LATTE!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking + cooking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite dishes, especially with this Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte recipe. Everything from my fave latte glasses, saucepans, blender, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

Best Coffee Options for Pumpkin Dirty Chai Latte

The beauty of a dirty chai latte is that you can customize the coffee to match your taste and caffeine preference. Here are the best options:

• Espresso: The classic choice. Strong, bold, and rich, espresso cuts through the sweetness of pumpkin and chai. Use 1–2 shots depending on how strong you like it.
• Strong brewed coffee: Perfect if you don’t have an espresso machine. Brew double-strength coffee for a similar boldness.
• Cold brew: Smooth, slightly sweet, and less acidic, cold brew gives this latte a mellow yet caffeinated kick.
• Instant espresso powder: A quick and easy option. Just mix with a splash of hot water before adding to your latte.
• Decaf espresso or coffee: Ideal for those who want the flavor without the buzz. You’ll still get the cozy pumpkin spice chai vibe with no caffeine crash.
• Chicory coffee: Naturally caffeine-free with a slightly nutty, roasted flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin and chai.

If you love your latte extra strong, use espresso and a splash of cold brew for a double coffeehouse kick.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte

• Use strong coffee or espresso. Since the pumpkin chai creamer is rich and flavorful, bold coffee balances the sweetness and spice. If using regular brewed coffee, make it double strength.
• Brew chai properly. Steep chai tea long enough to release its spices (5–7 minutes) so the flavor stands out in the creamer. For convenience, a chai concentrate works too.
• Sweetness is customizable. Start with less vanilla syrup and adjust to taste. Remember, maple syrup in the creamer already adds sweetness.
• Choose creamy milk. Oat milk gives the richest, café-style texture, while almond milk keeps it lighter. Whole milk also makes the latte extra indulgent.
• Chill everything before serving. For the best iced latte, use cooled coffee and chai tea so the ice doesn’t water it down too quickly.
• Coffee ice cubes are a game-changer. Freeze leftover coffee into ice cube trays to keep your latte cold without diluting flavor.
• Top it like a barista. Whipped cream plus a dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice makes the drink coffeehouse-worthy and Instagram-ready.
• Make a big batch of creamer. Store the pumpkin chai creamer in the fridge for up to 5 days so you can whip up this latte all week long.

How to Make Pumpkin Purée from Scratch

Homemade pumpkin purée is rich, flavorful, and often more vibrant than canned versions. It’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for pumpkin bread, pies, muffins, and soups. Here’s how:

Choose the right pumpkin. Look for small sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins (about 2–4 lbs). They’re naturally sweeter and less watery than large carving pumpkins.

Prep the pumpkin. Wash, slice in half, and scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh. Save the seeds if you’d like to roast them later!

Roast for flavor. Place pumpkin halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast at 375°F until fork-tender, about 40–50 minutes. Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars, adding depth of flavor.

Cool + scoop. Let the pumpkin cool slightly, then scoop the flesh into a food processor or blender.

Blend until smooth. Puree until creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water. If it’s too watery, strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for 30 minutes.

Store or freeze. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Ice cube trays work great for smaller servings.

One medium sugar pumpkin usually yields about 2 cups of purée—the exact amount needed for most pumpkin bread recipes.

Best Add-On Ingredients for Pumpkin Dirty Chai Latte

Want to take your latte to the next level? These add-ins bring extra flavor, texture, and fun café-style vibes:

• Extra pumpkin spice: Stir in a little more pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for stronger fall flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: A swirl of caramel syrup on top of the whipped cream makes it decadent and dessert-like.
• Cocoa powder or chocolate syrup: Adds a mocha twist that pairs beautifully with chai spices.
• Protein boost: Blend in a scoop of vanilla or chai-flavored protein powder to make it more filling.
• Collagen or adaptogens: Add collagen peptides or adaptogenic powders (like ashwagandha or maca) for wellness benefits.
• Coconut cream: Swap regular whipped cream for coconut whipped cream for extra richness and a dairy-free option.
• Nut butter swirl: A spoonful of almond butter or peanut butter blended in gives a nutty, creamy twist.
• Pumpkin cold foam: Froth a little pumpkin chai creamer and spoon it over the top for a Starbucks-style finish.
• Coffee ice cubes: Freeze leftover coffee into ice cubes for a stronger, never-watered-down latte.

For a true café vibe, garnish with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate, and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

When to Serve Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte

This drink isn’t just for pumpkin spice season—it’s versatile enough to enjoy all year, but it shines brightest in the fall. Here are the best times to serve it:

• Morning pick-me-up: Swap your usual coffee for a cozy, spiced latte that energizes your day.
• Afternoon refreshment: Serve over crushed ice for a cooling yet cozy mid-day boost.
• Brunch gatherings: A fun, festive drink that pairs perfectly with pancakes, waffles, or baked goods.
• Friendsgiving & holiday parties: Impress guests with a homemade café-style latte that feels seasonal and special.
• Cozy weekends: Enjoy it while baking fall treats, watching movies, or lounging with a good book.
• Special occasion drink: Top with whipped cream and caramel drizzle for a dessert-like treat.

This latte is easy to batch! Make a big pitcher of pumpkin chai creamer ahead of time and set up a DIY iced latte bar for brunches, Friendsgiving, or holiday get-togethers.

Common Q + A's for Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte

More Favorite Pumpkin-infused Recipes

If you thoroughly enjoyed this My Fave Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte recipe, don't forget to add these delicious creations to your "must-make" list:

• Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats
• Vegan Pumpkin Chai Latte
• Spicy Pumpkin Pasta Bake
• Cajun Pumpkin Tortellini Soup
• Cozy Sun-dried Tomato Pumpkin Ravioli
• Vegan Pumpkin Spice Muffins
• Vegan Pumpkin Spice Waffles 
• Cozy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
• Homemade Pumpkin Oat Bagels
• 20 Pumpkin Recipes For When You Have Too Many Pumpkins
• Skillet Baked Cheesy Pumpkin Gnocchi

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried my My Fave Pumpkin Dirty Chai Iced Latte or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag me @shanikagrahamwhite on Instagram. I love hearing from you!

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