Pumpkin Spice Latte with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

There are two things I know.

I love coffee...

...and I love pumpkin.  

The two together make magical deliciousness in a cup.  

 As part of the the Foodbuzz Tastemaker Program I received free Godiva Coffee - Pumpkin Spice (and Carmel Pecan Bark as well)! Thank you Foodbuzz! 

I have definitely been addicted to Pumpkin Spice lattes this season - so I thought, why not try it at home?  The free pumpkin spice coffee from Godiva also was inspiration for making this extra pumpkin-spicey drink!  

I do not have a fancy espresso machine, but I love using the Bialetti Moka pot pictured above to make espresso-like strong coffee.  

Pumpkin Spice Latte with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

o    For the pumpkin spice syrup:

o    1 1/2 cups water

o    1 1/2 cups sugar

o    4 cinnamon sticks or 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon

o    1/2 tsp ground cloves

o    1/2 tsp ground ginger

o    1 tsp ground nutmeg

o    3 Tbsp canned pumpkin

o    For a single latte:

o    1 shot of espresso or 2-4 Tbsp very strongly brewed coffee (I used Godiva Pumpkin Spice coffee)

o    6-8 oz milk, heated or steamed until very hot

o    1-2 Tbsp pumpkin spice syrup (or to taste)

o    Whipped cream, optional 

Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

o    1 c. heavy whipping cream

o    2 tsp. pure vanilla bean paste or extract

o    2 tsp. powdered sugar

1.      Add Vanilla and cream together in a chilled bowl and beat until peaks start to form. If you are using a stand mixer put the whip attachment and use about 6 speed for about 5 minutes.

2.      Slowly add your sugar and whip again until peaks form again. Refrigerate.

Instructions

1.      To make the syrup: Cook sugar and water in a small pot over medium heat until the mixture is completely clear.

2.      Whisk in the remaining ingredients and continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Do not allow mixture to come to a boil.

3.      Allow mixture to cool for 10-15 minutes.

4.      Strain syrup through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a large jar or bottle of your choice.

5.      Keep syrup in the fridge, it will last a while.

6.      To make the latte, combine coffee with heated milk, and 1-2 Tbsp of pumpkin spice syrup (add to taste).

7.      Top with whipped cream, if desired.  

Source: Confections of a Foodie Bride & Serendipity Mommy