This Pumpkin Spice Frosty is a delicious and easy fall dessert that's packed with classic fall spices and an ultra-creamy texture. It's so much better than the Wendy's version!
Fall is here, and you know what that means—pumpkin spice mania has begun! Last year, Wendy's released a new pumpkin spice-flavored Frosty, and while there was lots of buzz among pumpkin spice lovers....it fell flat for many (including me!) TBH. But, not to be deterred, I vowed to make my own, better version at home. If you're craving that iconic pumpkin spice flavor but want something a little more delicious and creamy, then I have good news for you - this homemade Pumpkin Spice Frosty is just for you! Packed with classic fall spices and a rich, creamy texture, this frosty is the ultimate fall milkshake!
Why This Recipe Works (and Why It's Better Than Wendy's Version)
- Easy. My 10 year old can make this frosty. Seriously - you can whip this up in just minutes and need only a handful of ingredients to do it!
- Taste. I love a good Frosty. The vanilla frosty is one of my faves, as is it's chocolate counterpart (of course), and my own homemade caramel apple frosty. This new pumpkin spice frosty tastes like pumpkin pie in a glass and totally embodies fall. The hints of pumpkin from pumpkin puree and the added pumpkin pie spice give it a delicious flavor. (Can't get enough of pumpkin spice? Try these pumpkin spice churros!)
- Texture. I love Wendy's Frosty texture. And while many use condensed milk to make the classic frosty at home, I prefer good old-fashioned vanilla ice cream. It creates a luscious creamy texture that cannot be compared to the condensed milk versions.
Key Ingredients
Just a few ingredients are needed to make this pumpkin spice frosty dessert
- Vanilla ice cream. The base of this Frosty is made from large scoops of vanilla ice cream, providing a sweet, creamy base similar to the classic chocolate Frosty.
- Pumpkin puree. This is where the familiar flavors of pumpkin shine through, adding both flavor and creamy texture.
- Heavy whipping cream. A key to achieving that rich, smooth texture Frosty fans love, adding an indulgent creaminess you won’t get from the Wendy's version.
- Pumpkin pie seasoning. There's nothing better to invoke the taste of familiar fall flavors than this blend of warm spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They enhance the flavors of pumpkin and bring out that cozy fall taste.
- Brown sugar. Adds a slight caramel-like sweetness that elevates the taste profile and balances the pumpkin spice.
- Whipped cream. You can't have a frosty without whipped cream! For that extra touch of indulgence, don't skip this ingredient!! I also love to sprinkle just a bit of extra pumpkin spice on top of the whipped cream for a pretty, finishing touch.
How to Make This Pumpkin Spice Frosty at Home
Creating this fall-inspired treat at home is simple and quick, with just a few steps:
- Blend the ingredients. Combine the pumpkin puree, heavy whipping cream, pumpkin pie seasoning, brown sugar, and vanilla ice cream in a blender (I used my Vitamix). Blend on low speed until fully combined, for a creamy consistency.
- Garnish and serve. Divide the mixture into glasses, add a dollop of whipped cream on top, and sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie seasoning for a final touch. Enjoy the creamy frosty right away!
This homemade Frosty is guaranteed to be better than any seasonal frosty flavors you’ve tried before, especially when compared to the much-anticipated, yet underwhelming, Wendy’s pumpkin spice Frosty.
Variations and Substitutions
- Lower sugar option: Swap out the brown sugar for a sugar-free sweetener for a version with fewer grams of sugar.
- Make it dairy-free. Use coconut cream and a dairy-free ice cream alternative to make a vegan version of this fall pumpkin spice Frosty.
- Add a bit of protein. Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to increase the grams of protein for a more filling treat.
- Add some extra spice. Some prefer a more intense spice kick—add extra pumpkin pie seasoning or a pinch of ginger for a stronger flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
My version has a more authentic pumpkin flavor and a creamier texture and is made with high-quality ingredients. Many reviews of Wendy's Frosty noted it lacked these elements, making it a less satisfying treat. I also love that you can customize the spice to make it as intense or mild as you want.
Absolutely! While a blender works perfectly, an ice cream maker can help achieve an even smoother texture, similar to the original frosty mix used in Wendy's frosty treats.
If you happen to have leftovers (how??), store them in an airtight container in the freezer. You'll need to allow the mixture to thaw slightly when you're ready to enjoy it again!
Skip the trip to Wendy’s and make your Pumpkin Spice Frosty at home. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy those beloved seasonal flavors with a much more satisfying, creamy texture. If you make this recipe, please let me know what you think in the comments below! And don't forget to tag me @frontrangefed on Instagram so I can see your masterpiece!
More Fun Drinks!
- Caramel Apple Frosty
- Watermelon Mint Slushy
- Starbucks Copycat - Cinnamon Honey Oatmilk Latte
- Easy Mexican Hot Chocolate
- How To Make Cold Brew With Ground Coffee
Recipe
Homemade Pumpkin Spice Frosty -Better Than Wendy's!
Ingredients
- 10 large scoops vanilla ice cream
- ½ cup cold heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 tbs brown sugar
- whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Combine the pumpkin, heavy whipping cream, pumpkin pie seasoning brown sugar, and ice cream in a blender and blend on low until fully combined.
- Divide the mixture into glasses and add a dollop of whipped cream on top. Sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie seasoning.
Chef A says
Mmmm mmm mmm so good, and so tasty.
Sarah Jenkins says
Thank you!