Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

This Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is the perfect blend of two beloved drinks, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin spice and the sweetness of brown sugar. Ideal for cozy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups, this drink encapsulates the essence of fall in every sip. Its creamy texture and delightful aroma will make it a favorite for any espresso lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and brown sugar creates a sweet, spiced flavor that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this drink in no time.
• Versatile Servings: Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo, the recipe easily scales for any occasion.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the sweetness or spice level to match your personal preference.
• Perfect for Fall: Capture the spirit of autumn with this seasonal drink that’s both comforting and energizing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline your preparation and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Sealable jar or shaker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine metal sieve (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Small saucepan: Ideal for simmering your syrup ingredients to create that rich flavor base.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients combine smoothly for a velvety texture in your syrup.
• Sealable jar or shaker: Perfect for shaking your espresso mixture to achieve the desired frothy consistency.
• Fine metal sieve: Useful if you prefer a smoother syrup without any grainy texture from spices.

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.

For the Syrup

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

For the Drink

• 2 double shots of blonde espresso
• 1-2 cups ice cubes
• Cold oat milk, to taste

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon sticks or pumpkin pie spice, and warm water.
2. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the syrup begins to thicken.
3. Remove from heat and add in the vanilla extract and optional maple extract. If desired, strain the syrup through a fine metal sieve to remove any large spice particles.

Step 2: Store Your Syrup

1. Pour the syrup into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to one week.

Step 3: Assemble Your Drink

1. In a sealable jar, add one double shot of freshly brewed espresso along with 1-2 tablespoons of your prepared pumpkin brown sugar syrup.
2. Add 4-5 ice cubes into the jar, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds.
3. Pour the espresso mixture into your drinking glass without including any ice cubes from the jar.
4. Add fresh ice cubes to your glass filled with espresso.
5. Top off with cold oat milk according to your taste preferences.
6. Dust with additional pumpkin pie spice if desired.

Enjoy your creamy Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso as a perfect fall treat!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Serving your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is an opportunity to get creative and enhance the experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious drink.

With a Whipped Topping

• Top your espresso with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and a touch of indulgence.

Garnished with Spices

• Sprinkle additional pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top for an aromatic finish that elevates the flavor.

In a Festive Glass

• Use clear or themed glasses to showcase the beautiful layers of your shaken espresso, making it visually appealing.

Accompanied by Seasonal Treats

• Serve alongside cookies or muffins that complement the flavors, such as ginger snaps or pumpkin muffins for a cozy pairing.

As a Dessert Cocktail

• Enjoy your espresso over ice cream or mixed with vegan-friendly dessert toppings for a decadent after-dinner treat.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

To ensure your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pumpkin puree and spices will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your syrup before adding it to the espresso; feel free to adjust sweetness according to your preference.
• Shake Vigorously: A good shake is essential for mixing the ingredients thoroughly and achieving that frothy texture.
• Experiment with Milk: Try different types of oat milk or nut milk for varying flavors and creaminess in your drink.
• Chill Your Glass: Pre-chilling your serving glass can keep your espresso colder longer, enhancing the drinking experience.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso can create a delightful snack experience. Here are some recommendations:

1. Pumpkin Muffins
   Moist and flavorful, pumpkin muffins are an excellent complement to the rich espresso flavors.
2. Ginger Cookies
   Spicy ginger cookies add warmth and sweetness that pairs beautifully with coffee drinks.
3. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip
   Fresh apple slices dipped in caramel offer a crunchy contrast to the creamy espresso.
4. Cinnamon Rolls
   Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls create a comforting pairing that enhances the overall taste experience.
5. Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
   Chewy chocolate chip cookies provide a sweet balance against the spiced notes of your drink.
6. Oatmeal Bars
   Nutty oatmeal bars add texture and wholesome ingredients that can round out your coffee break nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso taste even better. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using cold espresso: Always use freshly brewed double shots of blonde espresso for the best flavor. Cold espresso can dilute and spoil the drink’s richness.
• Not simmering the syrup long enough: Simmer the brown sugar and pumpkin mixture until it thickens. A quick mix won’t develop the flavors properly.
• Skipping the ice shaking step: Shaking the espresso with ice is crucial for achieving a frothy texture. Don’t skip this step if you want that cafe-style finish.
• Overlooking oat milk measurements: Taste as you add oat milk to find your preferred creaminess level. Adding too much can overpower the pumpkin spice flavor.
• Not storing syrup correctly: Store leftover syrup in an airtight container for up to a week. Failing to do so could lead to spoilage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

• Freeze espresso in ice cube trays if you want to preserve it longer.
• Use within 1 month for optimal flavor.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

• Oven: Preheat to a low temperature, then warm your drink in an oven-safe container.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (15-20 seconds) at medium power, stirring between sessions until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso.

Can I use decaf espresso for my Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso?

Yes, you can use decaf espresso if you prefer a caffeine-free version of this delightful drink.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso?

Try adding different spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth, or swap oat milk with almond or soy milk for a different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have blonde espresso?

You can substitute regular espresso; however, keep in mind that blonde espresso has a milder flavor which complements the pumpkin well.

How do I make it vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly by using oat milk and plant-based ingredients. Enjoy without any animal-derived products!

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin Spice Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust flavors to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy cup of fall goodness anytime!