Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

What is the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte?

The Pumpkin Spice Latte is a flavored espresso beverage that blends Starbucks’ signature espresso with pumpkin spice syrup and steamed milk. It’s topped with whipped cream and a dusting of pumpkin pie spices, making it both indulgent and festive.

Key features of the Pumpkin Spice Latte include:

• Espresso Base – One to two shots of espresso depending on size.
• Pumpkin Spice Syrup – A mix of pumpkin purée, sugar, and warming spices.
• Steamed Milk – Creates a creamy, latte‑style texture.
• Whipped Cream – Adds richness and sweetness.
• Seasonal Appeal – Available only during fall months.

Together, these elements make the PSL a hybrid of comfort drink and caffeine boost, appealing to both coffee lovers and seasonal flavor fans.

How Much Caffeine is in a Tall Pumpkin Spice Latte?

The Tall (12 fl oz) Pumpkin Spice Latte is the smallest standard size available at Starbucks. It contains a single shot of espresso, making it the lightest in caffeine.

Caffeine content in a Tall PSL:

• Serving Size – 12 fl oz (355 ml)
• Espresso Shots – 1
• Total Caffeine – 75 mg
• Calories – 300 kcal (with 2% milk and whipped cream)
• Sugar – 38 g

This makes the Tall PSL a moderate‑caffeine option, similar to a strong cup of tea but less than a standard brewed coffee.

Caffeine Content in a Grande Pumpkin Spice Latte

The Grande (16 fl oz) is the most popular size for the PSL. It contains two shots of espresso, doubling the caffeine compared to the Tall.

Caffeine content in a Grande PSL:

• Serving Size – 16 fl oz (473 ml)
• Espresso Shots – 2
• Total Caffeine – 150 mg
• Calories – 390 kcal (with 2% milk and whipped cream)
• Sugar – 50 g

This puts the Grande PSL in the moderate‑to‑high caffeine range, similar to many energy drinks and stronger than a typical cup of coffee.

Caffeine Levels in a Venti Pumpkin Spice Latte

The Venti (20 fl oz hot, 24 fl oz iced) is the largest standard size for the PSL. It also contains two shots of espresso, but the larger milk volume dilutes the caffeine concentration slightly.

Caffeine content in a Venti PSL:

• Serving Size – 20 fl oz hot (591 ml) / 24 fl oz iced (710 ml)
• Espresso Shots – 2
• Total Caffeine – 150 mg (same as Grande)
• Calories – 470 kcal (with 2% milk and whipped cream)
• Sugar – 63 g

Despite being larger, the Venti PSL has the same caffeine as the Grande, making it a better choice for those who want more drink volume without extra caffeine.

Calories and Sugar in the Pumpkin Spice Latte

While caffeine is a key factor, the PSL is also known for its calorie and sugar content. The combination of milk, syrup, and whipped cream makes it one of Starbucks’ richer drinks.

Typical nutrition (Grande, 16 fl oz, with 2% milk and whipped cream):

• Calories – 390 kcal
• Total Fat – 14 g
• Sugar – 50 g
• Protein – 14 g
• Carbohydrates – 52 g

These numbers highlight why the PSL is often considered more of a treat than an everyday coffee. Choosing nonfat milk, almond milk, or skipping whipped cream can reduce calories and sugar.

Ingredients Overview: What’s Inside a Pumpkin Spice Latte

The PSL combines espresso with flavored syrup and milk, creating its signature taste.

Key ingredients include:

• Espresso – The caffeine source.
• Pumpkin Spice Sauce – Made with pumpkin purée, sugar, and spices.
• Steamed Milk – Adds creaminess and balances flavors.
• Whipped Cream – Provides richness.
• Pumpkin Pie Spices – Cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove for the seasonal finish.

This blend makes the PSL both indulgent and energizing, though its high sugar content means it’s best enjoyed in moderation.