The Dairy Problem: Why the Standard PSL Is Not Vegan
For over two decades, the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) has been a seasonal favorite, but it has never been fully vegan-friendly in the United States. The primary reason lies within the key ingredient: the Pumpkin Spice Sauce. This sauce, which forms the flavor base of the drink, includes dairy in the form of sweetened condensed milk, making it unsuitable for a vegan diet. Even if you request a plant-based milk and omit the whipped cream, the dairy from the sauce remains. This has led to years of requests and petitions from the vegan community for a dairy-free version, a request that was addressed in certain international markets, but not yet fully in the U.S..
Can You Order a Vegan-Friendly Hack at Starbucks?
While you cannot get a true, authentic PSL, you can get a drink with a similar flavor profile by modifying a different latte. The trick is to avoid the standard pumpkin sauce entirely. Here's a popular hack:
- Choose a Vanilla or Plain Latte: Start with a regular or vanilla latte as your base. This provides the espresso and a touch of sweetness without the dairy from the pumpkin sauce.
- Select a Non-Dairy Milk: Starbucks offers several plant-based milk alternatives, including oat, almond, soy, and coconut milk. Oatmilk is a popular choice for its creamy texture that mimics dairy milk well.
- Add the Pumpkin Spice Topping: The actual Pumpkin Spice topping—the powder of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves that is sprinkled on top—is vegan. Ask the barista to mix this powder into your drink, either steamed into a hot latte or stirred into an iced one. While this provides the spice, it lacks the pumpkin puree flavor.
- Consider a Cold Foam: For iced drinks, some have found success requesting a non-dairy cold foam (like Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Foam made with a non-dairy milk) and asking for pumpkin spice powder to be blended in.
The DIY Route: How to Make a Truly Vegan PSL at Home
The most effective way to guarantee a delicious and authentic vegan PSL is to make one yourself. This allows for complete control over the ingredients, flavor, and richness. Many copycat recipes exist that replicate the creamy, spiced goodness of the original using purely plant-based ingredients.
Homemade Vegan PSL Ingredients:
- Espresso or Strong Coffee: Start with your preferred coffee base.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Oat milk or coconut milk work exceptionally well for a creamy texture.
- Pumpkin Puree: Use pure canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or a sweetener of your choice to taste.
- Spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, or a store-bought pumpkin pie spice blend.
- Vanilla Extract: For extra flavor depth.
- Vegan Whipped Cream (Optional): Made from chilled coconut cream.
Instructions:
- Combine the pumpkin puree, non-dairy milk, sweetener, and spices in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, whisking until smooth and hot, but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the coffee or espresso into a mug.
- Blend the heated milk mixture with an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender to make it frothy.
- Pour the frothed pumpkin milk over your coffee and top with vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of spices if desired.
Comparing Your PSL Options: A Side-by-Side View
| Feature | Standard Starbucks PSL | Vegan Starbucks Hack | Homemade Vegan PSL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Flavor Source | Dairy-based pumpkin sauce | Pumpkin spice powder topping | Real pumpkin puree and spices |
| Vegan Status | No, contains dairy | Vegan (with modifications) | Yes, fully customizable |
| Authenticity | High, but not vegan | Moderate, similar spice profile | High, can taste even better |
| Customization | Low, pre-made sauce | Moderate, depends on barista | High, full control of ingredients and sweetness |
| Cost | Regular Starbucks pricing | Similar to a standard latte | Significantly lower, more cost-effective |
Beyond the Basic Hack: Advanced Vegan PSL Strategies
For the dedicated vegan PSL enthusiast, there are more advanced techniques to get closer to the original flavor. One method is to carry your own small bottle of homemade vegan pumpkin spice syrup. You can make this syrup easily by simmering pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and spices with a non-dairy milk alternative (like oat milk or canned coconut milk) to replace the dairy condensed milk. Simply add a few pumps to your plain latte order. Another idea is to ask for a coffee-based drink like a Cold Brew or Americano and request the Pumpkin Spice topping to be mixed in, which can be a cleaner, less modified option.
Conclusion: The Vegan PSL is Possible, Just Not "As-Is"
While you cannot walk into a U.S. Starbucks and order a traditional, menu-standard Pumpkin Spice Latte that is vegan, you are not out of luck. The key is understanding that the standard sauce is the problem and that modifications are necessary. By learning the simple ordering hacks, you can enjoy a spiced fall drink with the coffee giant. However, for the most authentic and truly vegan experience, making your own at home remains the superior option, offering full control and a delicious result every time. For more information on vegan options at Starbucks, see VegNews' guide to the fall menu.
