Pumpkin Cocktails for Every Autumn Occasion

Get ready to stir up some deliciously cosy pumpkin cocktails this autumn! These festive favourites mix smooth textures, natural sweetness, and warming spices that hit just right when the weather turns cool. Whether you’re hosting a spooky bash or keeping it chill at home, this line-up of autumn-inspired drinks has something for every vibe.

1. Pumpkin Martini

Our Pumpkin Martini is  up there with the best holiday Martinis to enjoy this season! With an indulgent combination of vanilla vodka, Irish cream, pumpkin purée, and spice, this might just become your favourite rich, dessert-style Martini of the holiday season.

PRO TIP: Chill your Martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving.

2. Hot Pumpkin Pie Cocktail

If the holidays had a signature nightcap, this would be it. Smooth, sweet, and delightfully spiced, the Hot Pumpkin Pie Cocktail brings dessert and drink together in one irresistible festive sip.

SERVING SUGGESTION: Top with a dollop of whipped cream and crushed digestive crackers.

3. Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned

Love a classic Old Fashioned? Then you’ve got to try this bourbon pumpkin spice cocktail.

Ingredients

• 60 ml Wild Turkey Bourbon (opens in new window)
• 15 ml Homemade pumpkin syrup
• 2 dashes Orange bitters
• 1 Orange wedge
• A splash of soda water (optional)
• Cinnamon stick (to stir and garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add pumpkin syrup, orange bitters, and an orange wedge to an Old Fashioned glass
2. Muddle gently
3. Add bourbon and ice
4. Add a splash of soda water
5. Stir gently with a cinnamon stick
6. Serve

PRO TIP: Swap the cinnamon stick for a smoked orange peel.

Learn more: Manhattan vs. Old Fashioned Cocktail: What is the Difference?

4. Pumpkin Spice Mule

Mule cocktails are always a treat, and when the cooler season rolls around, we like to get extra spicy with them, lean into something daringly zesty, and beautifully spiced.

Ingredients

• 60 ml SKYY Vodka (opens in new window)
• 1 tbsp Pumpkin purée
• 0.25 tsp Pumpkin pie spice (plus extra to garnish)
• Squeeze Lime juice (fresh)
• 120 – 160 ml Spicy ginger beer (to top)
• Ice

Method

1. Add vodka, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and lime juice to an ice-filled shaker
2. Shake until well chilled
3. Strain into an ice-filled copper mule mug
4. Top with ginger beer
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice

SERVING SUGGESTION: Serve in a frosted copper mug with a cinnamon stick stirrer for the ultimate autumn aesthetic.

5. Pumpkin Whiskey Smash

This pumpkin cocktail is a delightful riff on the classic Whiskey Smash.

Ingredients

• 60 ml Wild Turkey Bourbon
• 2–3 tbsp Pumpkin syrup
• 15 ml Orange juice (fresh)
• 2 dashes Orange bitters
• 60 – 90 ml Ginger beer (optional, to top)
• Orange slice or cinnamon stick (to garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add pumpkin syrup, bourbon, orange juice, and bitters to an ice-filled shaker
2. Shake until chilled
3. Strain into a glass over fresh ice
4. Top with ginger beer
5. Garnish and serve

MOCKTAIL VERSION: Leave out the whiskey and add one additional tablespoon of orange juice, plus one tablespoon of apple cider, and a splash of vanilla extract.

6. Pumpkin Apple Cider Mocktail

This pumpkin mocktail recipe is a tasty spin-off of the crisp, apple-laced autumn cocktails we all know and love and is a great option when you need to serve a crowd.

Ingredients

Serves 4

• 3 cups Apple cider
• 0.5 cup Canned pumpkin
• 0.5 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp Ground ginger
• 0.5 tsp Ground nutmeg
• Optional: Splash Wild Turkey Bourbon, brandy, or apple liqueur

Method

1. Combine apple cider, pumpkin, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a medium saucepan
2. Whisk and warm up over medium heat
3. Ladle into 4 heatproof mugs
4. Add a splash of bourbon, brandy, or apple liqueur
5. Serve warm

SERVING SUGGESTION: Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a star anise pod to make it look as festive as it tastes.

Also see: Thanksgiving Cocktails to Celebrate in the UK

7. Pumpkin Pie Punch

This big-batch drink is a festive, fall-loving cousin of the Rum Punch.

Ingredients

Serves 8–10

• 2L Apple cider
• 2 cups Ginger ale
• 1 can Pumpkin pie mix
• 1 cup Vanilla vodka
• Whipped cream (to top)
• Pumpkin pie spice (to garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add apple cider, ginger ale, pumpkin pie mix, and vanilla vodka to a large pitcher
2. Stir to combine
3. Pour into glasses
4. Top with whipped cream and pumpkin spice
5. Serve

PRO TIP: Chill all ingredients ahead of time so you don’t need to dilute your punch with ice.

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8. Spiked Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

On nippy days, a boozy hot chocolate is a gorgeous way to warm up your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Cocoa powder
• Splash vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup Milk
• 30 ml Vanilla vodka
• Whipped cream (to top)
• Chocolate shavings (to garnish)

Method

1. Combine sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and milk in a small saucepan
2. Whisk continuously over low heat until warmed through
3. Pour into a mug
4. Stir in vanilla vodka
5. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings
6. Serve

SERVING SUGGESTION: Add a toasted marshmallow or chocolate wafer on top for extra indulgence.

9. Pumpkin Eggnog with Bourbon

Whether you make eggnog from scratch or grab it ready-made from specialty stores, this festive treat is smooth, spiced, and a little indulgent.

Ingredients

• 60 ml Eggnog
• 30 ml Chilled black coffee
• 30 ml Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
• Whipped cream (to top)
• Ground cinnamon (to garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add eggnog, coffee, and bourbon to an ice-filled shaker
2. Shake vigorously
3. Strain into a tumbler over fresh ice
4. Top with whipped cream and ground cinnamon
5. Serve

PRO TIP: Sprinkle grated nutmeg over the whipped cream instead for an irresistible aroma.

More snug delights: Bourbon Cocktails to Warm You Up This Winter

10. Pumpkin Sangria

Sangria recipes might be associated with summertime, but this version should definitely be on your list of autumn cocktails.

Ingredients

Serves 6–8

• 3 cups Sparkling apple cider
• 1 bottle White wine (750 ml)
• 1 cup Appleton Estate Rum (opens in new window)
• 1 cup Pumpkin syrup
• 3 Apples (cored, sliced)
• Cinnamon sticks and extra apple slices (to garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add sparkling apple cider, white wine, rum, and pumpkin syrup to a large pitcher
2. Add the apple slices
3. Stir gently to combine
4. Pour sangria into ice-filled glasses
5. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and extra apple slices
6. Serve

SERVING SUGGESTION: Serve in large wine glasses with apple slices and a cinnamon stick.

Snuggle Up: Irresistible Autumn Cocktails 

11. Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail

If a classic White Russian tickles your fancy, you’ve got to treat yourself to the Pumpkin Spice version.

Ingredients

• 30 ml Coffee liqueur
• 30 ml SKYY Vodka
• 0.5 tsp Pumpkin pie spice (plus extra to garnish)
• 60 ml Heavy cream
• Ice

Method

1. Add coffee liqueur, vodka, pumpkin pie spice, heavy cream, and ice to a shaker
2. Shake until chilled
3. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass
4. Garnish with pumpkin pie spice
5. Serve

PRO TIP: Layer the cream over the back of a spoon for that classic marbled look.

Level up: Pitcher-Perfect Cocktails for Your Next Big Gathering

12. Pumpkin Spice Margarita

This autumn-themed variation of the Lime Margarita makes perfect Halloween or Bonfire Night cocktails.

Ingredients

• 60 ml Espolòn Tequila Reposado (opens in new window)
• 30 ml Grand Marnier (opens in new window)
• 15 ml Lime juice (fresh)
• 60 ml Pumpkin sugar syrup
• Cinnamon sugar (to rim glass)
• Lime wheel or cinnamon stick (to garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Rim a glass with cinnamon sugar and set aside
2. Add tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and pumpkin syrup to an ice-filled shaker
3. Shake until chilled
4. Strain into the prepared glass
5. Garnish and serve

SERVING SUGGESTION: Pair with cinnamon-sugar-dusted tortilla chips or spiced nuts.

Get cosy: Easy Winter Cocktails to Make at Home

13. Bourbon Pumpkin Shrub Cocktail

Shrub cocktails are having a moment, and we are leaning in. To make this Bourbon Pumpkin Shrub Cocktail, start by making your pumpkin shrub.

Ingredients

• 45 ml Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
• 45 ml Pumpkin shrub
• 1 tsp Maple syrup
• 90 ml Ginger beer (to top)
• Cinnamon stick (to garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add bourbon, pumpkin shrub, and maple syrup to a serving glass over ice
2. Stir gently to combine
3. Top with ginger beer
4. Garnish and serve

PRO TIP: Let your pumpkin shrub infuse overnight for a deeper, spicier flavour payoff.

14. Pumpkin Spice Mudslide

To make an autumn version of the classic Mudslide you’re going to use pumpkin spice cream liqueur.

Ingredients

• 30 ml Pumpkin spice cream liqueur
• 30 ml Coffee liqueur
• 30 ml SKYY Vodka
• 0.5 cup Ice
• 2 scoops Vanilla ice cream
• Chocolate syrup (to line glass)
• Whipped cream (optional, to top)

Method

1. Add pumpkin spice cream liqueur, coffee liqueur, vodka, ice, and vanilla ice cream to a blender
2. Blend on high speed until smooth
3. Drizzle chocolate syrup inside a serving glass
4. Pour in the milkshake mixture
5. Top with whipped cream
6. Serve

SERVING SUGGESTION: If you struggle to find pumpkin spice cream liqueur in stores, simply add 0.25 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to one part regular cream liqueur.

15. Pumpkin Mimosa

A sparkling Halloween or autumn brunch favourite, the Pumpkin Mimosa mixes homemade pumpkin “juice” with bubbly Champagne for a whimsical, spiced twist on the classic Mimosa.

Ingredients
For the pumpkin juice:

• 1 can (425 g) Pumpkin purée
• 1 tsp Pumpkin spice
• 2 tsp Sugar
• 0.25 cup Water

For the cocktail:

• 45 ml Pumpkin juice (from above)
• 120 ml Champagne or Cinzano Prosecco D.O.C. (opens in new window) (chilled)
• Whipped cream (optional, to top)
• Ground cinnamon (optional, to garnish)

Method

1. To make the pumpkin juice, add pumpkin purée, pumpkin spice, sugar, and water to a small saucepan over medium heat
2. Stir constantly for a few minutes until heated through and slightly thickened (it should remain a purée)
3. Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve; set aside purée for other uses
4. Add pumpkin juice to a Champagne flute
5. Top with Champagne or Prosecco
6. Garnish with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon if desired
7. Serve

PRO TIP: Keep your bubbly extra cold and pour it gently to preserve the bubbles and layered look.

16. Pumpkin Spiced Espresso Martini

The Pumpkin Spiced Espresso Martini is a festive variation of the classic Espresso Martini.

Ingredients

• 30 ml Coffee liqueur
• 30 ml SKYY Vodka
• 30 ml Espresso (freshly brewed)
• 15 ml Pumpkin syrup
• Cinnamon (to garnish)
• 3 Coffee beans (to garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add coffee liqueur, vodka, espresso, and pumpkin syrup to an ice-filled shaker
2. Shake until frosty
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
4. Garnish and serve

SERVING SUGGESTION: Rim the glass with fine cocoa powder or cinnamon sugar.

‘Tis the season: Best Martini Recipes

17. Pumpkin Sazerac

The world’s oldest cocktail, all dolled up in its Halloween best. Don’t mind if we do!

Ingredients

• 30 ml Wild Turkey Rye Whiskey (opens in new window)
• 30 ml Pumpkin syrup
• 3 dashes Bitters
• 10 ml Absinthe (to rinse glass)
• Lemon peel (to express oils and garnish)
• Ice

Method

1. Add rye whiskey, pumpkin syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice
2. Stir for 30 seconds
3. Rinse a chilled rocks glass with absinthe
4. Strain the whiskey mixture into the prepared glass
5. Twist a lemon peel over the top of the cocktail, then drop it into the glass
6. Serve

PRO TIP: Use a chilled, heavy-bottomed glass. This cocktail is meant to be sipped slowly, so the temperature matters.

18. Pumpkin Toddy

When the weather is stormy, a warming Hot Toddy is comforting beyond words. Here is an autumn-tinged version.

Ingredients

• 30 ml Apple brandy
• 15 ml Rye whiskey
• 15 ml Lemon juice (fresh)
• 15 ml Maple syrup
• 1 tsp Pumpkin syrup
• 2 dashes Bitters
• 5 oz Boiling water
• Cinnamon shavings (to garnish)

Method

1. Add apple brandy, rye whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, pumpkin syrup, and bitters to a heatproof mug
2. Stir to combine
3. Top with boiling water and stir again
4. Garnish with cinnamon shavings

SERVING SUGGESTION: Add a lemon slice studded with cloves for a fragrant garnish.

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How to make pumpkin syrup for cocktails

This is our go-to recipe to use at home. It’s easy to make, keeps well, and adds a cosy, spiced sweetness to any autumn drink.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve and let it cool completely before using it.

INSIDER TIP: Store your pumpkin syrup in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it in ice cube trays for easy single-serve portions.

Read next: Easy Syrup Variations for Cocktail Making 

How to make pumpkin purée for cocktails

To get that rich, velvety texture and true autumn flavour in your pumpkin cocktails, make your own purée.

1. Use fresh pumpkins. Look for sugar or pie pumpkins – they’re smaller, sweeter, and less watery than carving pumpkins. You’ll need one small pumpkin to make a batch of purée.
2. Cut and roast. Preheat your oven to 190°C. Cut the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 45 to 60 minutes until the flesh is tender.
3. Scoop and blend. Once cooled, scoop out the soft flesh, add a splash of water or apple cider and blend it in a food processor until smooth.
4. Spice it up. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger if you want a little extra warmth.

BONUS TIP: Use any leftover pumpkin purée in baked goods, pancakes, or soups.

Why pumpkin cocktails are perfect for Halloween

Pumpkin cocktails and Halloween go hand in hand, blending flavour, colour, and atmosphere into one irresistible experience. With their warm spices, cosy sweetness, and glowing orange hue, pumpkin drinks capture the essence of autumn and the playful spirit of the spooky season. Whether you’re hosting a themed party or keeping it low-key, there’s a pumpkin cocktail for every vibe, from creamy indulgence to bold, spiced brilliance.

Interesting garnishes & presentation tips for pumpkin cocktails

Pumpkin cocktails deserve festive garnishes that make them pop on the table and in your feed.

• Cinnamon sticks and star anise: These fragrant spices double as stirrers and aromatic enhancers. They look striking in the glass and add a warm, inviting scent to every sip.

• Toasted marshmallows: Skewer a lightly toasted marshmallow on the rim of your glass for that campfire-meets-s’mores vibe. This works perfectly for hot pumpkin cocktails like a Spiked Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate.
• Edible gold glitter: Hosting a Halloween bash? Sprinkle some edible gold glitter on top for a magical, otherworldly glow.
• Caramel drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce inside the glass or over whipped cream for a decadent, dessert-like finish.

Shareable presentation ideas

• Serve your cocktails in mini pumpkins or hollowed-out gourds for instant wow-factor.
• Create a “pumpkin patch” drink tray with cinnamon sticks, mini marshmallows, and fake cobwebs for extra Halloween flair.
• Add personalised name tags or themed drink toppers for guests to snap and share.
• Use dramatic lighting (like candles or fairy lights) to make the colours and glassware pop on camera.

Presentation is key, especially when it comes to Halloween. Use fun glassware, like copper mugs for Pumpkin Mules or tall hurricane glasses for punches, to make the drinks feel extra festive. And don’t forget the garnish; it’s the final flourish that makes the whole experience unforgettable.

There you have it; you’re all sorted with pumpkin cocktails for autumn! To stay on trend and in the know, sign up for our tasty newsletter today (opens in new window). Visit the SKYY Vodka (opens in new window) and Wild Turkey Bourbon (opens in new window) websites for more recipe inspiration.