Pumpkin Spice Latte – Two Ways
O.K. unless you have been under a rock you have probably heard that Starbucks very popular Pumpkin Spice Latte has returned this fall. I am all for a treat/splurge from time to time, but I must warn those of you with Celiac Disease/Gluten Sensitivities or food allergies to be very careful when visiting Starbucks, especially with their seasonal drinks. I tell you this from experience, last year I let my guard down, stopped at Starbucks, and as the D-Man puts it “got glutened”! A little research on Starbucks Website led me to their Allergen Statement:
“Allergen information is currently unavailable online for our beverage selections. If you have an allergen concern, please feel free to ask our baristas to check the ingredient labels or call 1-800-235-2883 for more information. Please note: we cannot guarantee that any of our beverages are allergen free because we use shared equipment and handle allergens throughout the store.”
A couple of weeks ago the D-Man and I passed by a Starbucks and he said “Mom, it sure smells good”! A barista was pouring warmly colored liquids from bottles and frothing milk to prepare a pumpkin spice latte. It did smell good so I decided I would develop a healthier gluten free version to share with you. Just as I made the final tweaks to my recipe on Friday a friend told me the lovely and brilliant Danielle Walker from “Against All Grain” posted her version of Pumpkin Spice Latte. I must admit her version is better! The difference, she blends her ingredients which gives her latte more froth/foam. This added step also prevents separation as the drink cools, so unless you drink like the bartender just announced last call, you may get a bit of sediment at the bottom of the mug with my version. Since I am not one to let ego get in the way I have decided to share both recipes with you for your autumnal enjoyment.
Pumpkin Spice Latte – Living Gluten and Grain Free
Ingredients:
1 Cup of Milk of Choice (I used coconut milk)
3 Tablespoons of Homemade or Organic Pumpkin Puree
3 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
2 to 3 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
1/2 Cup Brewed Organic Coffee or Espresso
1/2 teaspoon of Organic Ground Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Organic Ground Ginger
Dash of Organic Ground Nutmeg, Cloves
Directions:
Place all ingredients in a small saucepan and whisk over low heat until steaming.
Pour into a mug and top with Coconut Whipped Cream (or real whipped cream) if desired.
Pumkin Spice Latte – Against All Grain
http://againstallgrain.com/2014/10/16/pumpkin-spice-latte/