PUMPKIN SPICE AND A LEGITIMATELY NICE HEALTHY PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE RECIPE

[bigletter]September has arrived and so has my infinite love for all things autumn. Despite the record breaking temps in Southern California I will continue to fight for Fall even it means cranking up the AC and avoiding direct sunlight. In my pursuit for cozy I have pulled out my favorite sweaters, started my annual re-watches of Gilmore Girls and Harry Potter (Hocus Pocus I always save for October, however, I have already watched The Holiday three times) and sought after the most beloved Fall drink, the pumpkin spice latte.[/bigletter]

However, every year the tug of war between “a harmless indulgence” and “it’s just not worth it” draws on in my mind and even when I order my modified hack (espresso shot, one pump pumpkin spice syrup and almond milk) the contents, most certainly not containing pumpkin, still slowly kill me.

Fortunately this year I stumbled upon a suggestion from a friend Debbi, who’s healthy lifestyle and skincare brand, Lanima, are truly #wellnessgoals. Her version of the autumn morning classic is completely vegan and a much more healthy take on the classic PSL.

DEBBI’S VEGAN PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE

1 tbsp pumpkin puree

1 cup almond or cashew milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp pure maple syrup

1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

~Heat all ingredients on the stove or froth, add a shot (or two) of espresso/coffee if desired!~

Since I have an espresso machine I used a frother, but either will do! If using a frother, I reccomend mixing everything aside from the coffee first before frothing so your mug doesn’t overflow. I added a cinnamon stick to garnish but it also smells nice! Another addition for extra special mornings is a dollop of whipped cream, the dairy free one I use is linked below.