Here’s How Many Pumpkin Spice Lattes Starbucks Makes from a Single Pumpkin

As pumpkin spice season returns, Starbucks reveals that just three pounds of puree can produce 800 grande-sized Pumpkin Spice Lattes. Introduced in 2015, real pumpkin puree now enhances the iconic PSL, which remains a seasonal favorite after two decades of success.

Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte Now Uses Real Pumpkin, with Just 3 Pounds Yielding 800 Drinks

Pumpkin spice season has officially arrived, and whether it's adored or loathed, there's no denying it's one of the most iconic seasonal beverages. The answer is a definitive yes for those curious about whether Starbucks' pumpkin spice latte (PSL) contains real pumpkin. Initially, the drink relied solely on artificial flavoring, but since 2015, it has included pumpkin puree. Remarkably, just three pounds of pumpkin can produce about 800 grande-sized PSLs, marking a fresh departure from the controversial ingredients in the earlier beverage versions.

According to Tasting Table, Starbucks now purees pumpkins to create its signature pumpkin spice sauce, which is used to flavor the latte. Baristas finish each drink with whipped cream and a sprinkle of Pumpkin Spice Topping, a blend of spices such as ginger, clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The official Starbucks website provides a handy recipe for those wishing to recreate their beloved drink at home, including instructions on making pumpkin spice syrup from scratch. The company recommends four tablespoons of pumpkin puree for every eight beverages.

Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice Latte Sets Sales Record, Plus More Pumpkin-Themed Drinks to Enjoy This Fall

The popularity of the PSL continues to soar. In 2022, Starbucks’ pumpkin spice latte set a new sales record, proving that the drink's momentum shows no signs of slowing even after more than two decades since its debut. But Starbucks offers more than just the classic PSL—plenty of other pumpkin-themed beverages to explore this fall. Options include an iced PSL, a vanilla-infused pumpkin cream cold brew, or a spiced pumpkin Frappuccino. Alternatively, one could embrace the role of a bartender by mixing up a fall-themed cocktail, such as a pumpkin spice white Russian, perfect for Halloween celebrations.

For those making homemade pumpkin spice drinks, there are many ways to utilize different parts of the pumpkin. The skin can be peeled and turned into delicious pumpkin chips, while the seeds can be roasted for a savory snack. Even the stringy insides have a purpose, making them ideal for tea or cider infusions. And if 800 grande pumpkin spice lattes seem too ambitious, the pumpkin puree can easily be repurposed into a classic pumpkin pie. Getting the proportions right is essential when crafting these seasonal beverages, but leftover pumpkin is never a problem—the gift keeps giving throughout the fall.