Tricks & Treats: Homemade Pumpkin Spice Lattes

By Melissa Massello, October 30, 2013

One of the few things I regret about moving to Texas so far is our timing — Red Sox winning the World Series aside, fall in New England is one of the most magical times, in one of the most magical places on the planet, and my absolute favorite season. Catching friends’ photos of fall foliage, cider doughnuts, apple picking, plaid ensembles, bonfires, and pumpkin everything, is making me seriously homesick right now.

Which is why I was super excited when my friend Miko (formerly my fabulous editorial assistant here at Shoestring) sent me this amazing creation he had concocted: a DIY pumpkin spice latte that tastes just like, strike that even better than, Starbucks. And without the need to purchase a steamer. Yippee! Fancy fall coffee drinks at home!

Last fall, Tara had already created this cost-saving version of DIY pumpkin spice mix, which I had on hand (filled into my empty McCormick jar!) and ready to go. All I needed was a can of pumpkin puree and some milk. In about 20 minutes and for less than a buck, I made two Ball jars full of New Englandy yumminess ready to rock & roll and take on the road, capped with Somerville-pride-rocking Cuppow lids.

For the full recipe & more photos, head over to Boston.com today and enjoy this treat — using a stupid simple trick, think Shake Weights — tonight while you greet costumed Halloweeners.

Happy All Hallows Eve!