Copycat Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe

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Whether you’re stopping by for your morning commute or fueling up for a weekend adventure, this latte brings a touch of sweater-weather magic to every sip. Join us as we take a closer look at why Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte deserves a spot on your must-try list this season.

What Is Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte?

Wawa Pumpkin Spice is a line of seasonal fall-themed drinks and snacks offered by Wawa (the popular convenience store and gas station chain, mainly in the Mid-Atlantic and Florida).

Ingredients:

• Espresso or Strong Coffee: 2 shots of espresso (about 2 ounces) or ½ cup very strong brewed coffee.
• Milk: 1 cup whole milk (or any preferred milk, oat, almond, etc.).
• Pumpkin Puree: 2 tablespoons (not pumpkin pie filling).
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: ½ to 1 teaspoon (a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves).
• Sugar/Brown Sugar: 1 to 2 tablespoons, depending on sweetness preference.
• Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon.
• Whipped Cream (optional)
• For topping. Extra Pumpkin Pie Spice or Cinnamon.

Instructions:

1. Make the Pumpkin Milk Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Heat just until hot, not boiling, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar and avoid burning the milk.
2. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Froth the Milk: Froth the milk and pumpkin mixture using a handheld frother, immersion blender, or by vigorously whisking until the mixture becomes slightly foamy.
4. Brew Coffee or Espresso: While the pumpkin milk heats, brew your espresso or strong coffee and pour it into your favorite mug.
5. Combine: Pour the hot, frothed pumpkin milk over the espresso or coffee in the mug.
6. Top and Serve: If desired, finish with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top.

Tips For A Perfect Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte:

• Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar or use flavored syrup for a sweeter touch, like Wawa’s version.
• Espresso vs. Coffee: Use bold espresso for a café-style taste, but strong-brewed coffee works if you don’t have an espresso machine.
• Non-Dairy Options: Oat milk steams up beautifully and adds creaminess, but almond, soy, or coconut milk are great, too.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitute: If you don’t have a pre-made mix, blend equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
• For Iced Version: Follow the same steps, then pour over ice instead of serving hot!

What To Serve With

Freshly Baked Muffins:

• Pumpkin Muffins: Intensify the Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte’s goodness by serving pumpkin muffins, preferably with crunchy nuts or creamy chocolate chips.
• Apple Cinnamon Muffins: The sweet-tart apple pairs beautifully with Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte flavors.

Pastries And Breads:

• Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, sticky cinnamon rolls provide a perfect balance to the Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte.
• Banana Bread or Pumpkin Bread: A warm slice of banana or pumpkin bread is cozy and satisfying with your drink.
• Scones: Try scones with fall-friendly mix-ins like cranberries, pecans, or a maple glaze.

Cookies:

• Snickerdoodle Cookies: Their cinnamon-sugar coating matches well with the latte’s spice blend.
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: The heartiness and warmth in each bite complements the creamy drink.
• Molasses or Ginger Cookies: Their bold spice adds extra autumn flavor.

Breakfast Favorites:

• Classic Waffles or Pancakes: Serve with maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer vanilla yogurt with granola and roasted pumpkin seeds or apples for a lighter option.

Savory Pairings:

• Egg Sandwiches: If you want a heartier start, pair with a breakfast sandwich, Wawa style!
• Quiche: A slice of veggie or cheese quiche adds richness and balances the sweetness of your latte.

Fruit & Nuts:

• Sliced Apples or Pears: The crisp freshness is a great way to lighten up your coffee break.
• Roasted Nuts: Pecans, almonds, or walnuts toasted with a touch of cinnamon or maple syrup make a simple but delicious snack.

Seasonal Treats:

• Pumpkin Pie or Apple Pie: A small slice of either brings out the holiday feel any time of day.
• Maple Donuts: The sweet maple glaze is an autumn classic.

Ingredient Substitutes:

Coffee/Espresso Substitutes:

• Double-strength: If you don’t have espresso, use very strong brewed coffee or instant coffee dissolved in hot water. Cold brew concentrate also works well for a smooth taste.
• Caffeine-Free Option: Use decaf espresso, decaf coffee, or a roasted chicory beverage for a similar deep flavor without caffeine.

Milk Substitutes:

Dairy-Free Choices:

• Oat Milk: Steams and froths best, with a natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• Almond Milk: Mild flavor and lighter body.
• Soy Milk: Creamy and neutral, excellent for frothing.
• Coconut Milk: Adds a hint of coconut; works especially well in iced versions.
• Cashew or Macadamia Milk: Super creamy but tends to be milder in flavor.

Lower-Fat Or Plant-Based:

• Skim milk for less richness; lactose-free milk for dairy sensitivities.

Flavorful Twists:

• Try vanilla-flavored plant milks for extra sweetness or spiced milks for even more fall flavor.

Pumpkin Puree Substitutes:

• Sweet Potato Puree: Similar texture and sweetness with a slightly earthier taste.
• Butternut Squash Puree: Mild and sweet, works especially well when blended with warming spices.
• Canned Pumpkin Pie Mix: If using this, cut back on added sweetener and spices as it’s already seasoned.
• Carrot Puree: For a lighter, subtly sweet twist (best with extra spices).

Sweetener Substitutes:

Healthier Options:

• Maple syrup: Adds sweetness plus a hint of fall flavor.
• Honey: Warms and deepens the flavor, but not vegan-friendly.
• Coconut sugar: Lower glycemic and slightly caramel-flavored.

Sugar Substitutes:

• Stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol for a reduced-calorie option.

Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitutes:

Homemade Blend:

• Mix 1 part cinnamon, ¼ part nutmeg, ¼ part ginger, and a pinch of ground clove or allspice.

Other Spice Blends:

• Chai spice (adds cardamom and black pepper for warmth).
• Apple pie spice (similar to more allspice).

Single Spices:

• If you lack a blend, use cinnamon with a dash of nutmeg.

Vanilla Extract Substitutes:

• Almond extract for a slightly nutty twist.
• Maple extract for more autumn flavor.

Whipped Cream Substitutes:

Non-Dairy:

• Coconut whipped cream (from chilled canned coconut milk).
• Store-bought almond or soy whipped topping.

Vegan:

• Most supermarkets sell vegan whipped cream options now.

Toppings Substitutes:

• Sprinkle nutmeg, cinnamon, or cocoa powder.
• Crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Health Benefits

• Antioxidants from Spices: The “spice” in pumpkin spice refers to cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, all of which are high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help limit oxidative stress, fighting inflammation and supporting overall health.
• Cinnamon: May help regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and provide anti-inflammatory effects.
• Nutmeg: Contains compounds linked to improved digestion and mood.
• Ginger: Well known for digestive support and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Cloves: Rich in antioxidants and exhibits antibacterial qualities.

Vitamins And Fiber From Pumpkin:

• Vitamin A: Supports vision and immune health.
• Vitamin C: Strengthens immunity, aids in iron absorption.
• Potassium & Fiber: Good for heart health and digestion; fiber keeps you fuller longer.

Quality Protein And Calcium (From Milk):

• Protein: Essential for muscle maintenance and overall energy.
• Calcium: Important for bone health and nerve function.
• Fortified Plant Milks: These often contain added B vitamins, vitamin D, and other nutrients.

Mental Boost From Coffee:

• Coffee’s caffeine moderates mood and alertness, helping fend off fatigue and sharpen your focus.
• Cognitive Benefits: Moderate caffeine intake may lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease over time.
• Mood Enhancement: Boosts dopamine and endorphins, naturally lifting spirits.

• Moderation in Sweeteners: When made at home, you can control the type and amount of sweetener. Using less sugar, or opting for maple syrup, honey, or sugar alternatives, helps reduce empty calories.
• Customizable for Dietary Needs: Homemade pumpkin spice lattes can be tailored for low sugar, non-dairy, or vegan diets, making them inclusive as well as healthy.

Tips To Maximize Health Benefits:

• Go easy on sugar: Reduce added sweetener or choose healthier options (like maple syrup or coconut sugar).
• Choose real pumpkin puree: Get the vitamins, fiber, and natural flavor.
• Use plant-based milk for fewer calories and fat: Oat, almond, or soy milks boost nutrition, especially when fortified.
• Skip the whipped cream: For a lighter treat, omit or use a non-dairy whipped topping.
• Be mindful of serving size: Enjoy a smaller cup to keep calories and sugar modest.

Final Thoughts

As autumn returns, there’s no better way to capture the heart of the season than with a warm, comforting cup of Wawa Pumpkin Spice Latte.

More Latte Recipes:

• Copycat Dunkin’ Cereal Milk Latte Recipe
• Golden Snitch Latte Recipe (Copycat)