Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea | Starbucks Copycat Recipe

This iced pumpkin cream chai tea is a perfect Starbucks copycat recipe that combines cozy fall flavors with the refreshing chill of an iced drink. It’s creamy, spiced, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat, without needing to leave your house!

I first fell in love with the Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte on a crisp autumn afternoon, and it instantly became my favorite seasonal drink. But as much as I adore it, those coffee shop trips can add up fast. So, I decided to recreate it at home, and honestly, I think this version is even better. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and gives you control over the sweetness and spice level. Plus, it’s ready in just minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This iced pumpkin cream chai tea is a must-try for any chai lover, especially if you’re a fan of Starbucks drinks or pumpkin-inspired treats. Here’s what makes it special:

• Simple Ingredients: You’ll need pantry staples plus a few fall favorites like pumpkin puree and chai tea bags.
• Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar to your taste or use a natural alternative like maple syrup.
• Creamy and Dreamy: The pumpkin-spiced cream topping is velvety smooth and takes this drink to the next level.
• Perfect for Any Time of Day: It’s caffeine-packed enough for a morning pick-me-up but cozy enough to enjoy as an afternoon treat.

Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 large iced drink (or 2 smaller servings)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients for Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea

This Starbucks copycat recipe comes together with just a handful of ingredients you may already have on hand.

• 2 chai tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose-leaf chai)
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup milk (use any kind dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)
• 1–2 teaspoons sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ice cubes

For the pumpkin cream topping:

• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup

Optional garnish:

• Sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon

How to Make Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea

Making this iced pumpkin cream chai tea is so easy, it’s like bringing a little Starbucks magic into your own kitchen!

Step 1: Brew the chai tea

Start by steeping the chai tea bags in 1 cup of hot water for 5 minutes. For a stronger flavor, you can steep it a bit longer or use an extra tea bag. Once brewed, remove the tea bags and let the tea cool slightly.

Step 2: Sweeten and chill

Stir in your sugar (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract while the tea is still warm, so the sweetener dissolves. Then, set it aside to cool or pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.

Step 3: Make the pumpkin cream topping

While the tea cools, whisk together the heavy cream, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and sugar until thickened.

You can use a handheld frother, a whisk, or even shake it in a mason jar with a lid. Aim for a soft, pourable consistency, like lightly whipped cream.

Step 4: Assemble the drink

Fill a glass with ice cubes, then pour the cooled chai tea over the ice. Add the milk and give it a gentle stir to combine.

Step 5: Top it off

Spoon the pumpkin cream topping over the chai tea, letting it float beautifully on top. Sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for that extra Starbucks-inspired touch.

How to Serve Your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea

This drink is as pretty as it is delicious! Serve it in a clear glass to show off the creamy layers, and don’t forget a straw to sip and stir.

Pair it with a warm muffin or scone for the ultimate fall-inspired snack. It’s also a great addition to a cozy brunch spread with friends or family.

Storing and Enjoying Leftovers

While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can make parts of it ahead of time:

• Brew the chai tea in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• The pumpkin cream topping can be made up to 24 hours ahead and kept in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a quick whisk before using.

Avoid storing the assembled drink, as the ice will dilute the flavors over time.

Top Tips for Customizing Your Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea

• Make it dairy-free: Swap the milk for almond, oat, or soy milk, and use coconut cream for the topping.
• Boost the spice: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the pumpkin cream for extra warmth.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with 1 teaspoon of sugar and add more to taste.
• Add a coffee twist: Mix in a shot of espresso or cold brew for a pumpkin-spiced dirty chai!

Your Questions About Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Answered

Can I use store-bought pumpkin spice syrup instead of pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can! If you have a pumpkin spice syrup on hand, use 1–2 teaspoons in place of the pumpkin puree and sugar in the cream topping.

What’s the best type of chai tea for this recipe?

Any good-quality chai tea will work. If you want a bold flavor, go for a spiced chai blend. Loose-leaf chai often has a fresher, more robust taste compared to tea bags.

Can I make this drink hot instead of iced?

Absolutely! Skip the ice and warm the milk before adding it to the brewed chai tea. Top with the pumpkin cream as usual for a cozy hot version.

How do I make pumpkin pie spice if I don’t have it?

No worries! Mix 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ginger, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves. This homemade blend works perfectly in the topping.

Can I double or triple the recipe for a group?

Yes! Just scale up the ingredients and prepare a larger batch of chai tea. You can whisk the pumpkin cream in a bigger bowl or use a stand mixer to save time.

Let’s Make This Together!

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to bring a little Starbucks-inspired magic to your kitchen. This iced pumpkin cream chai tea is everything you love about fall, all wrapped up in a refreshing, spiced drink. I can’t wait for you to try it, let me know how it turns out!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or tag me at WandaRecipes.com. And don’t forget to check out more of my cozy tea drink recipes for even more delicious inspiration!