Pumpkin Cold Brew with Oat Milk

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Pumpkin Cold Brew Twist

Cold brew topped with oat-milk pumpkin flavor brings all the cozy vibes of fall—without dairy or excessive sugar. Real pumpkin and warm spices make it feel seasonal, while the oat milk keeps it creamy and plant-based. It’s smooth, satisfying, and simple. Plus, it suits vegan diets and pairs beautifully with fall breakfast or brunch.

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Ingredient List: What You Need

For the Cold Brew Base:

• 1 cup strong cold brew coffee or chilled brewed coffee

• Ice cubes

For the Pumpkin Oat Milk Mix:

• ½ cup unsweetened oat milk

• 1–2 tablespoons pumpkin purée (100% pure)

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon + nutmeg combo)

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

• Dash of cinnamon or crushed pecans for garnish

• Espresso shot for a “dirty” version

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Equipment Needed:

• A tall glass or mason jar

• Whisk or small frothing wand or blender

• Measuring tools

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brew and Chill Your Coffee

Prepare strong cold brew or espresso and chill in the fridge. Combine coffee with ice in a tall glass, filling it about ¾ full.

Step 2: Make Pumpkin Oat Milk Mixture

In a separate jar or bowl, whisk oat milk, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, spice, and vanilla until smooth and slightly thickened. No foam is needed—just liquid creamy texture.

Step 3: Pour Over Coffee

Slowly pour the pumpkin oat mixture over the iced coffee. It will float gently or mix slightly—either way, you get a layered cream swirl.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice or crushed pecans on top. Stir before sipping for the best blend of creamy and bold flavors.

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Why Oat Milk Works Perfectly

Oat milk is naturally creamy and slightly sweet, making it ideal for coffee drinks. It blends well with pumpkin purée and holds texture over ice. It’s also low in allergens and widely accessible.

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Tips & Tricks for Best Results

• Use cold oat milk and pumpkin—not room temp—to maintain texture.

• Start with 1 tablespoon pumpkin and adjust to your taste.

• Stir gently after pouring to let the swirl remain visible and Instagram-worthy.

• If preferred sweeter, add more maple syrup or cinnamon.

• Serve immediately—this drink is best fresh and icy.

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Fall Variations to Try

Spice-Forward Swirl

Increase pumpkin pie spice or stir in extra cinnamon/stars for richer spice.

Mocha Pumpkin Cold Brew

Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a chocolate drizzle in the glass before pouring.

Dirty Pumpkin Latte

Include an extra shot of espresso or strong coffee for more robust flavor.

Chai and Pumpkin Fusion

Mix the pumpkin oat blend into iced chai instead of coffee for a spice-smart variation.

Decaf or Low-Sugar

Use decaf cold brew and sugar-free maple syrup or steep vanilla with stevia or monk fruit.

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Pairing Suggestions

• Vegan pumpkin bread or banana nut muffins

• Cinnamon apple oatmeal or granola

• Toast with almond butter and maple syrup

• Spiced nuts or cinnamon crisps

Set the mood with fall lighting, cozy blankets, and warm textures.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Notes

• Pumpkin oat milk mix: Can be prepared ahead and stored overnight in the fridge. Stir before using.

• Coffee concentrate: Make your cold brew batch in advance and keep sealed in fridge up to 5 days.

• Dry spice mix: Mix your spices and sweeteners into mini jars for quick whisk-in each time.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of purée?

A: No—pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which make sweetness unpredictable and texture thin.

Q: Is oat milk the only option?

A: You can substitute with almond or cashew milk, but it may be less creamy. Coconut milk works if you enjoy subtle sweetness.

Q: Can I warm this instead of iced?

A: Yes—heat the oat mixture gently and pour over coffee. It won’t maintain swirls, but flavor remains easy.

Q: How long does it hold consistency?

A: Use immediately after layering. Any separation is normal and adds visual appeal.

Q: Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?

A: With minimal sweetener or sugar substitute, it can be adjusted low-sugar. Oat milk has some natural carbs.

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Nutritional Notes

• Real pumpkin provides fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants.

• Oat milk gives plant-based creaminess without dairy.

• Maple syrup is less refined than white sugar and adds nutrients.

• Spices add flavor without calories or guilt.

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Why This Recipe Wins Every Time

• Vegan, allergy-friendly, and free of dairy

• Coffee-shop vibes at home

• Triple purpose: coffee topping, chai mix-in, even dessert drizzle

• Quick, accessible, and visually appealing

Once you try it, you’ll want to refresh the mix multiple times during autumn—and maybe even year-round!