First day of Fall

Pumpkin Spice Latte

In honor of the first day of fall, 2011, here is a way to stop spending so much on those fancy coffee drinks as the weather turns chilly! These Pumpkin Spice Lattes are easy, inexpensive, and taste like autumn.

First, brew a shot of espresso (1.5 fluid ounces) or 1/4 cup of very strong coffee.
While that is brewing, place a small saucepan on the stove with 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of canned pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of white sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (or you can make your own with 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice or cloves, 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg - Makes 1 teaspoon).
Warm this mixture on medium heat, whisking the whole time, until it is hot and frothy but not boiling.
Pour your espresso or coffee into a mug and add your pumpkin spiced milk.
You can top your Latte with whipped cream and cinnamon for the coffee shop style.

Enjoy and happy fall!

(This post by Jessica Czaya, Legal Clerk for The Law Office of Keith R. Taylor)