Cozy Up with Vegan Starbucks Fall Drinks You Can Make at Home

Fall is in the air, and you know what that means: pumpkin spice everything! But before you shell out your hard-earned cash for a seasonal sip at Starbucks, why not recreate those cozy flavors in your own kitchen? We’ve got the inside scoop on whipping up delicious vegan versions of your favorite Starbucks fall drinks, all without sacrificing taste or that comforting autumn vibe.

Cracking the Code: Veganizing Your Go-To Fall Flavors

The magic of fall drinks often lies in creamy milks and decadent syrups. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with delicious dairy-free alternatives that will have you wondering why you haven’t made the switch sooner.

Dairy-Free Milk Magic

• Oat Milk: This creamy, subtly sweet option is a total game-changer for replicating that velvety texture in lattes.
• Soy Milk: A classic for a reason! Soy milk provides that satisfying richness that stands up beautifully to bold espresso.
• Almond Milk: For those who prefer a lighter touch, almond milk brings a delicate nuttiness that complements the warm spices of fall.

Sweet Surrender: DIY Vegan Syrups

Making your own syrups is easier than you think, and it gives you the freedom to control the sweetness and ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes without stirring.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Get Creative with Flavor:

To create your favorite fall flavors, simply infuse the syrup with spices while it simmers. Try these combinations:

• Pumpkin Spice: 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Maple Pecan: 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/4 teaspoon maple extract, 2-3 drops pecan extract
• Salted Caramel: 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon caramel extract

Vegan Starbucks Fall Drink Recipes

Get ready to impress your taste buds (and your wallet!) with these easy-to-follow recipes.

1. Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1/2 cup plant-based milk (oat milk recommended)
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Vegan whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the plant-based milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Heat until steaming, stirring frequently.
3. Pour the brewed coffee into your favorite mug.
4. Add the pumpkin spice mixture and stir well.
5. Top with vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte in a mug with fall decor.

2. Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened apple juice
• 1/2 cup oat milk
• 1 shot espresso
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• Vegan whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine the apple juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
3. Pour into a glass filled with ice.
4. Slowly pour the oat milk over the back of a spoon to create layers.
5. Add a shot of espresso to the top.
6. Garnish with vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.

Refreshing Vegan Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato with a cinnamon stick.

3. Vegan Caramel Apple Hocus Pocus Frappuccino

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ice
• 1/2 cup plant-based milk (soy milk recommended)
• 1 frozen banana
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice
• Vegan whipped cream (optional)
• Caramel drizzle (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients except whipped cream and caramel drizzle in a high-speed blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a glass and top with vegan whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of apple pie spice, if desired.

Whimsical Vegan Caramel Apple Hocus Pocus Frappuccino in a glass.

Fall in Love with Flavor

There you have it—three incredible vegan takes on your favorite Starbucks fall drinks. With a little creativity and these simple recipes, you can enjoy all the cozy, delicious flavors of autumn without ever leaving your home. So grab your blender, dust off your favorite mug, and let’s get brewing!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of plant-based milk?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite plant-based milk. Each variety will bring a unique flavor profile to your drink.

2. Where can I find vegan whipped cream?

You can find vegan whipped cream at most major grocery stores, usually in the refrigerated section near the other dairy-free products.

3. Can I make these drinks ahead of time?

While they’re best enjoyed immediately, you can prepare the syrups and components in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. I don’t have espresso, what can I use instead?

You can substitute espresso with strong brewed coffee. Cold brew concentrate also works well for iced drinks.

5. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Of course! Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup or sweetener to your liking.