The Pumpkin Spice Latte has become a beloved autumnal tradition, with coffee shops like Starbucks rolling out the seasonal favorite earlier than ever. However, replicating the creamy, spiced drink at home can be tricky and expensive. While many might turn to store-bought syrups and coffee blends, true coffee lovers know it’s not quite the same.
But what about tea lovers? Bird & Blend Tea Co. has stepped up to the challenge with its exclusive Pumpkin Spice range, featuring loose-leaf and tea bag options. Their Spiced Pumpkin Pie Chai tea promises to be their “most loved blend ever,” and it’s available both online and in their 18 UK stores. I decided to put their autumnal collection to the test, which includes sweet matcha powders and sticky chai blends, to see if they could truly rival the classic pumpkin spice latte.
The thing I love most about pumpkin spice lattes is the comforting blend of warming spices with creamy milk, often thick and foamy. The syrupy sweetness adds a touch of dessert-like indulgence, but the price tag can be a bit daunting. Starbucks’ pumpkin spice latte, featuring a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, costs £4.65 for a tall size. Add extra toppings or go for iced, and you’re looking at over £5 per drink. While other coffee chains like Greggs, Ole & Steen, and Pret A Manger offer their own versions, Bird & Blend provides a more affordable and convenient alternative, eliminating the need to leave the house.
Their 150g tin of Spiced Pumpkin Pie blend costs £23 and contains 75 cups, translating to less than 31p per serving. Available as standalone loose-leaf or tea bags, the blend is also included in their Cosy Collection Box (£55) containing various pumpkin spice-themed tea blends and goodies.
So how do these tea blends compare to classic pumpkin spice lattes? First, they’re incredibly easy to make – all you need is boiling water, a tea strainer (if you’re using loose-leaf), and milk. The Spiced Pumpkin Pie loose black and chai blend boasts an incredible aroma, like autumn in a cup. While the absence of espresso might result in a more greyish hue when adding milk, the flavor is earthy and warm, with all the classic pumpkin spice notes. The blend contains a touch of natural sweetness from sugar sprinkles, complementing the earthy warmth without being overpowering. You can enjoy it black for a more bitter aftertaste or add hot, foamy milk for a latte-like experience. There’s no need for added cream or sugar syrup, making it a healthier and more calorie-conscious option compared to its coffee shop counterparts.
The real standout, however, is the Sticky Chai blend. This version, infused with honey for a lovely sweetness that the black tea blend lacks, is the closest rival to the classic pumpkin spice latte. To make it, simply measure two heaped teaspoons of the chai blend into a saucepan with a cup of milk and stir until heated through (or use the microwave), being careful not to burn the milk. Strain the liquid into a mug and enjoy! I’m confident that in a blind taste test, this Sticky Chai would be mistaken for a true pumpkin spice latte. It’s that good.
For an extra touch of indulgence, add whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder. The handy pouch packaging makes this Sticky Chai blend perfect for on-the-go, allowing you to whip up a hot autumnal drink anywhere you have access to milk, a microwave, or a stove – whether it’s in the office or even while camping.
