As Promised...

I LOVE Pumpkin Spice Latte (especially from Starbucks) but I HATE paying the price for it. So I scrounged around until I found something that I like just about as well. It costs much less and is a special (but easy) drink to whip up when friends come over.

~ Pumpkin Spice Latte ~

Makes 2 servings:

1 level tablespoon pumpkin puree

1 cup milk

1/2 tablespoon light brown sugar (packed and leveled)

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp nutmeg (+ a pinch for dusting later)

1/8 tsp ground cloves

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups strong coffee (brewed using 2 tbs per 1 cup of water)

4 Tbs Coffeemate creamer

4 to 8 tsp of sugar

Whipped cream

Begin brewing coffee. In a blender, puree the milk, pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, brown sugar and vanilla. Pour into a small saucepan and cook over low heat until the milk is warm and begins to frothe slightly, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

For each serving: Pour 1/2 cup of the pumpkin / milk mixture into your coffee mug. Add 2 generous tablespoons of Coffeemate creamer. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, then add 1 cup of brewed coffee. Add 2 - 4 teaspoons of sugar (depending on how sweet you like your drink). Top off with a touch more 'pumpkin milk' then cover with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg. Serve immediately.

Note to self: Do not ever forget to add the sugar again!!