With the return of autumn, many people have been heading to their nearest Starbucks to purchase the ever-popular pumpkin spice latte.

The autumnal drink actually launched in August this year, making a rather early return to the high street, and while some fans have been delighted others have been left looking for cheaper alternatives.

And that’s where the experts at PriceListo come in. They have revealed how you can make the Starbucks staple for a fraction of the cost, with the retail price of a Tall Pumpkin Spice Latte costing £4.65 but a homemade one costing just £1.25.

The homemade variant costs 73% less compared to buying from Starbucks, although the price can change depending on the milk used.

A spokesperson for PriceListo commented: “For over a decade now, not only has the Pumpkin Spice Latte become a staple of the Starbucks menu, but has also become a staple of popular culture, with the drink being posted on social media repeatedly, every time September rolls around.

“However, with rising costs of food, this study offers an insight into how many can enjoy their favourite Autumn beverage without overspending.”

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients (serves one)

• Whole milk/plant-based alternative – price per 236mls £0.36/£0.44
• Pumpkin – price per 1 tbsp £0.02
• Instant coffee – price per 30mls £0.34
• Granulated sugar – price per 1 tbsp £0.01
• Vanilla extract – price per 7mls £0.29
• Ground cinnamon – price per pinch £0.01
• Ground ginger – price per pinch £0.01
• Ground nutmeg – price per pinch £0.20
• Ground clove – price per pinch £0.01
• Vegetable oil (optional)

Method

Pre-heat your oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with parchment.

Cut your pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds – these can either be kept for roasting later or discarded.

Brush the inside of the pumpkin with vegetable oil (this can be skipped if not using oil). Then place the cut side down on the baking tray and piece the skin with a fork so that steam can escape while baking.

Place into the oven and roast for 40-50 minutes or until a fork can pierce the skin with ease. Then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool.

Once the pumpkin has cooled, scoop out the flesh and place it into a food processor, then puree until smooth, adding a few drops of water if needed.

When ready to make the latte, add the milk, pumpkin puree and sugar to a saucepan and heat over medium. Do not allow to boil as this can cause the milk to curdle.

Once the mixture has heated through, add in the spices, vanilla extract and freshly brewed 30mls of coffee.

Then pour into a mug and enjoy your pumpkin spice latte at a fraction of the amount you’d pay at Starbucks, or any other coffee shop.