There’s something about the crisp air of fall that just calls for a cozy, spiced drink to kick back with—and this Great Pumpkin cocktail delivers all the autumn vibes in a single sip.
If you’re a fan of classic fall flavors like pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this cocktail is going to become your go-to seasonal treat.
Imagine a velvety blend of pumpkin puree, smooth bourbon, and a hint of maple syrup, all finished with a dash of warming spices. The best part? It’s not just delicious; the pumpkin adds a surprising health boost too, packed with fiber and vitamins.
This cocktail has gained popularity lately for being the perfect balance of indulgence and wholesomeness. Plus, making it is easy—just a quick shake, pour, and you’re ready to sip.
Whether you’re sipping by a fire or sharing with friends, this cocktail is as much a part of fall as your favorite sweater.
Why I Love This Recipe
- The pumpkin flavor is real. Unlike artificially flavored drinks, this cocktail uses actual pumpkin puree, so you get all the earthy, rich notes of the real thing.
- It’s an easy crowd-pleaser. Whip this up in a matter of minutes, and it feels like you’ve made something special, even for a casual get-together.
- It’s versatile. If you’re not into bourbon, rum works just as well, and it still pairs perfectly with the pumpkin.
- Seasonal flair with a health boost. Pumpkin is loaded with nutrients like vitamin A, which supports your immune system—just what we all need this time of year.
The Great Pumpkin recipe
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Glass (chilled)
- 1 Cocktail shaker
Ingredients
- 2 ounce Pumpkin Ale
- 1 ounce Rye Whiskey
- ½ ounce Maple Syrup
- 1 Whole Egg
- 1 ounce Apple Brandy
- Grated Nutmeg
Instructions
- Add 2 oz of Pumpkin Ale, 1 oz of Apple Brandy, 1 oz of Rye Whiskey, ½ oz of maple syrup, and 1 whole egg to an empty cocktail shaker.
- Dry shake (without ice) until it becomes a bit frothy.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well chilled.
- Strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with freshly ground nutmeg.
Nutrition
Tips for Making The Great Pumpkin Cocktail
- Dry Shake First: Dry shaking (without ice) helps the egg emulsify and creates a frothy texture, which gives the cocktail its creamy, velvety finish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh pumpkin ale and high-quality apple brandy for the best flavor. The maple syrup should also be pure, as it adds a rich sweetness to balance the strong alcohol.
- Chill Your Glass: To maintain the cocktail’s chill and enhance the experience, make sure to pre-chill your cocktail glass before pouring.
- Shake Vigorously with Ice: After dry shaking, add ice and shake again to chill the cocktail thoroughly. The colder, the better!
- Egg Safety: If you’re concerned about using a raw egg, you can use pasteurized eggs or egg white alternatives to avoid any food safety risks.
- Experiment with Spices: Freshly grated nutmeg is the traditional garnish, but feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for extra fall warmth.