I can hardly believe that summer’s winding down. It’s still plenty warm here in Charleston, but I’m more than ready to lean into all things fall. The cozy layers, moody hues, and, most importantly, the seasonally appropriate cocktails or mocktails.
I’ve said it before, but I’m not the biggest pumpkin spice fan… I know, how dare I?! The Starbucks PSL is not for me–too sweet! I do love a pumpkin spice candle (this, this, and this are all favorites!), but as far as the lattes go? I’ve never been a big fan. I was feeling a little left out of the festivities until I discovered a new, deliciously fall (but not too sweet) cocktail: the Pumpkin Spice Old-Fashioned.
Maybe it’s the homemade syrup that makes it so good, but it definitely has that cozy, spiced-up autumn feel we all crave once September hits. Whether you’re looking for a pre-Thanksgiving sipper or something to enjoy fireside with friends, it’s a cocktail everyone can enjoy. (Bonus points if these classic fall films are involved!).
Pumpkin Spice Cocktail Recipe That Feels Like Fall
I love a good cocktail, especially one that’s quick to mix and feels a little special. And fortunately, this one checks all the boxes. The secret? A homemade pumpkin spice syrup that you can use in more than just drinks. Stir it into your morning coffee or drizzle it over whipped cream on top of pancakes. It’s sweet, spiced, and feels like fall in a bottle. Plus, it’s not overpowering, so even if you don’t love pumpkin spice, you can still enjoy it. If you don’t want to make your own, that’s totally fine! I’m including the recipe below but my friend Tara also makes a delicious pumpkin spice syrup.
In this post, I am sharing the Pumpkin Spice Old-Fashioned recipe, but also how to make that dreamy syrup from scratch. (All you need is a handful of kitchen staples you probably already have! No expensive trips to the grocery store required.)
What Is Pumpkin Spice?
Did you know the secret to an amazing pumpkin pie is all in the spice? Pumpkin pie spice is that magical blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger, and just a little allspice. When those cozy flavors come together, it’s warm, sweet, and distinctively aromatic.
These days, you’ll find pumpkin spice just about everywhere—coffee creamers, yogurts, pastries, even ice cream. But for me, it’s about more than just the flavor. It’s comforting. The flavor equivalent of your coziest cashmere sweater.
What Does Pumpkin Spice Taste Like?
There’s just something about pumpkin spice that feels like a hug in scent form. The moment that cozy blend hits your nose, it’s like you’re transported straight to a crisp fall morning—wrapped in a soft sweater, something baking in the oven, leaves crunching outside. This is especially reassuring when you live in a warmer climate: I miss fall!
It’s funny because pumpkin spice doesn’t actually taste like pumpkin. (I know, it’s ironic that I enjoy pumpkin-flavored food and not the pumpkin-spiced lattes.) It’s really a mix of warm baking spices that happen to pair beautifully with pumpkin dishes—and, as I’ve discovered, with cocktails too. Flavor-wise, it’s rich and layered. You get that soft sweetness from cinnamon and nutmeg, a little peppery depth from clove, and the brightness of ginger to round things out. It’s warm, but not too heavy . . . just enough to make you want another sip.
That’s what makes it such a lovely addition to cocktails. It plays exceptionally well with darker spirits like bourbon or aged rum. At the same time, it draws out the smooth vanilla and caramel notes while adding a little kick.
In an Old Fashioned, it turns a year-round favorite into something distinctly autumnal. And in lighter cocktails, it’s unexpectedly perfect with apple, honey, or even a little fresh lemon juice. Honestly, even the aroma feels indulgent. That first swirl of spice as you raise the glass? Pure fall magic.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cocktail
There’s nothing better than a cozy warming cocktail on a crisp fall night, especially when there’s a crackling fire nearby. That’s exactly what this Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned delivers. It’s all the best fall vibes, wrapped up in a glass. The bourbon brings the warmth, the pumpkin spice flavor adds that nostalgic seasonal feeling, and together? It’s fall’s essence, stirred and served.
If an Old Fashioned feels a bit bold for your taste, you can always add a splash of club soda to mellow it out. No judgment here—I’m all for making it your own. You can also make it a mocktail by using N/A whiskey or bourbon.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (I like Woodford Reserve)
- ½ oz pumpkin spice syrup (buy this one, or use my recipe below)
- 2 dashes Agostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- Cinnamon stick or star anise (optional, but so pretty)
- Large ice cube
Homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup
This is where the magic happens—and yes, it’s absolutely worth making. It keeps in the fridge for up to two weeks. Use it for more cocktails or a fun seasonal topping for food! (I love it over ice cream!)
- ½ cup unsweetened pumpkin purée
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: simple syrup for added sweetness (I skip this, personally!)
Instructions
To make the homemade pumpkin spiced syrup:
Step 1: Combine everything in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers gently—about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve (or cheesecloth) to remove any solids.
Step 3: Let it cool, then store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Now, let’s put our pumpkin spice cocktail together!
Step 1: In a mixing glass, add the bourbon, pumpkin spice syrup, Angostura bitters, and a dash of orange bitters.
Step 2: Add ice and stir for 20-30 seconds until well chilled. You can use smaller ice now—the large ice cube comes in a second!
Step 3: Strain into a rocks glass. I use this ice cube mold (but recently found these adorable pumpkin ice molds, too!) to really go for the fall vibe!
Step 4: Express an orange peel over the glass (that’s just a fancy way of saying give it a twist to release the oils), then drop it in. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or star anise if you’re feeling festive. Voilà, you have the perfect pumpkin cocktail!
Savor the flavors of fall with seasonal cocktails!
I love the changing of the seasons. As much as I love summer, there’s just something special and cozy about fall. It’s time to slow down and enjoy the little things. If you’re ready to lean into the fall vibes, this Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned is the perfect place to start.
Want even more seasonal cocktail inspiration? Don’t miss these favorites:
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