Copycat Starbucks Pistachio Latte 2026 Recipe

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The frequent Starbucks runs can add up, especially if you’re as obsessed with this drink as I am. That’s why I’ve decided to recreate this iconic Starbucks Pistachio Latte 2026 recipe in my own kitchen, and let me tell you, it comes pretty close to the café version (if not better because you can tweak it to your taste!).

How to make a Starbucks Pistachio Latte 2026

Starbucks Pistachio Latte (2026) is Starbucks’ seasonal pistachio‑flavored espresso drink that’s back on the 2026 Winter Menu.

Ingredients

For the Pistachio Sauce:

• ½ cup unsalted pistachios (shelled, roasted, and unsalted)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to enhance the pistachio flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Salted Brown Butter Topping:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

For the Latte:

• 2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup strongly brewed coffee)
• 1 cup of milk (use whole milk for creaminess, or choose oat or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1–2 tablespoons of pistachio sauce (adjust to your sweetness preference)
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pistachio Sauce

1. Blend the pistachios: Place the shelled pistachios in a food processor or blender and grind them into a fine, powdery texture.
2. Cook the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the pistachio powder, sugar, water, and salt. Heat on medium, stirring frequently until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth.
3. Add vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the sauce cool completely, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids for a smooth consistency. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Salted Brown Butter Topping

1. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir regularly and cook until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
2. Add the brown sugar to the butter and stir until dissolved. Remove from heat.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt into the mixture and let it cool slightly. This topping is what gives the Pistachio Latte its signature Starbucks touch, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Brew the Espresso

1. Brew 2 shots of espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker. If you don’t have espresso, substitute with ½ cup of strongly brewed coffee.

Step 4: Froth the Milk

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan or microwave until warm (but not boiling).
2. Froth the milk using a handheld frother, French press, or whisk to create a creamy, velvety texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Pistachio Latte

1. Pour the pistachio sauce into your coffee mug (1–2 tablespoons, depending on your taste).
2. Add the freshly brewed espresso on top and give it a gentle stir to combine.
3. Slowly pour the frothed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon if you want to layer it on top at the end.
4. Drizzle a bit of pistachio sauce on the surface for extra flavor and garnish with the salted brown butter topping.
5. For the ultimate café vibe, finish with a dollop of whipped cream (optional).

Pro Tips for the Perfect DIY Starbucks Pistachio Latte

• Pistachio Sauce Shortcut: If you’re in a pinch, pre-made pistachio syrup or spread (like Pistachio Torani Syrup or Nutella-style pistachio paste) can be used instead of making your own sauce. Adjust sweetness accordingly.
• Dairy-Free Options: Oat milk works wonderfully with this recipe, as its creamy texture complements the nutty pistachio flavors. Almond milk is another great choice.
• Amp Up the Pistachio: For a stronger pistachio flavor, feel free to add a teaspoon of pistachio paste alongside the homemade sauce.
• Cold Version: Want an iced Pistachio Latte? Simply skip the frothing step, pour the espresso and pistachio sauce over ice, and top with cold milk. Add whipped cream and a topping for a perfect finish.
• Make It Decaf: If you want to enjoy this latte later in the day, use decaf espresso or coffee to avoid the caffeine buzz.

Ingredients Substitutes

If you’re eager to make the Starbucks Pistachio Latte at home but missing a few ingredients or need to accommodate dietary preferences, don’t worry!

1. Pistachios

Pistachios are the main star of the Starbucks Pistachio Latte, providing that nutty, earthy flavor. If you’re out of pistachios or need an alternative:

Substitute:

• Unsalted cashews or almonds: Both have a mild nut flavor that blends well with coffee. These can be roasted and blended into a replacement sauce.
• Pecans: Use roasted pecans for a warmer, richer nutty flavor, though it will slightly change the taste profile.
• Sunflower seeds: A great nut-free option that delivers a subtle nut-like flavor.
• Nut butters (like almond or cashew butter): These work as a creamy shortcut. Simply whisk a tablespoon or two into your sauce or latte base.

2. Pistachio Sauce

The pistachio sauce adds sweetness, nut flavor, and creaminess to the latte. If making homemade pistachio sauce isn’t an option, consider these alternatives:

Substitute:

• Pistachio paste or pistachio butter: These ready-made products are easy to find online or in specialty stores. Mix them with a bit of sugar and milk to create a sauce.
• Pistachio-flavored syrup: Brands like Torani or Monin make pistachio coffee syrups that are a simple and effective swap.
• Almond or hazelnut syrup: If pistachio syrup isn’t available, almond and hazelnut syrups offer a similar nutty undertone.

3. Espresso

Espresso is the foundation of any latte, but if you don’t have an espresso machine, there are other ways to achieve a strong coffee base:

Substitute:

• Strong brewed coffee: Use about ½ cup of strong, dark roasted coffee as a substitute for espresso shots.
• Instant coffee or espresso powder: Dissolve 1–2 teaspoons in a few tablespoons of hot water to replicate espresso.
• Cold brew concentrate: Use cold brew concentrate for a smoother, less acidic coffee profile, especially for an iced version of the latte.

4. Milk

Milk is essential for creating the creamy, luxurious foam in the Pistachio Latte. However, whether you’re going dairy-free or want to experiment with flavor, milk alternatives work just as well.

Substitute:

• Oat milk: The closest substitute for the creamy consistency of whole milk; its mild sweetness enhances the pistachio flavor.
• Almond milk: Pairs wonderfully with the nutty pistachio profile, though it’s slightly less creamy.
• Coconut milk: Adds a tropical, subtly sweet flavor for a unique twist. Works best in iced versions.
• Soy milk: A neutral, protein-rich option with good frothing capabilities.
• Cashew milk: Creamy and smooth, cashew milk complements the latte’s nut-inspired theme.

5. Salted Brown Butter Topping

The salted brown butter topping adds a salty-sweet finish to the Pistachio Latte, enhancing the nuttiness and balancing out the sweetness. If you need a quick replacement:

Substitute:

• Caramel sauce or salted caramel drizzle: Similar sweetness and luxurious feel with a hint of salt.
• Butter extract: Add a drop to the latte or topping to mimic the richness of brown butter.
• Maple butter or honey butter: Replace brown butter with these sweet, buttery alternatives for a slight flavor twist.
• Whipped cream with a pinch of sea salt: A simple alternative that retains the salted finish.

Final Thoughts

The Starbucks Pistachio Latte 2026 is easy to make and endlessly comforting. With this recipe, you’ll be able to embrace the luxurious, nutty flavors of Starbucks’ seasonal hit anytime you want—no drive-thru required.

More Starbucks Recipes:

• Copycat Starbucks Italian Sausage Egg Bites Recipe
• Starbucks Jalapeno Chicken Pocket Recipe
• Starbucks Mint Majesty Tea with Two Honeys Recipe