Bourbon Pumpkin Spice Latte Cocktail Recipe

Nothing says cozy quite like the mix of warm pumpkin spice and smooth bourbon. I just love how this drink brings together the comfort of a pumpkin spice latte and the rich depth of a classic bourbon cocktail.

Here’s how I make a Bourbon Pumpkin Spice Latte Cocktail that honestly tastes like fall in a glass.

You don’t have to be a bartender to pull this off. With a handful of simple ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a drink that feels special but only takes a few minutes to whip up.

The mix of espresso, pumpkin spice, and bourbon just hits that sweet spot—bold but still really comforting.

If you’re winding down after dinner or maybe hosting friends, this cocktail brings a little seasonal twist that works for pretty much any occasion.

Once you taste that smooth blend of spice, sweetness, and warmth, you might find yourself craving it all fall.

Bourbon Pumpkin Spice Latte Cocktail Recipe

I mix bourbon with pumpkin spice and espresso to get a drink that’s smooth, warm, and honestly just cozy. The flavors come together—creamy milk, maple syrup, and pumpkin puree meet bold bourbon and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Equipment

I like to keep things simple so making this drink doesn’t turn into a project.

• Cocktail shaker to mix everything evenly
• Jigger for measuring bourbon and syrup
• Espresso machine or just a strong coffee maker
• Small saucepan for warming up the milk or oat milk
• Whisk or frother to blend and foam the milk
• Bar spoon for stirring
• Measuring spoons for the pumpkin puree and spices
• Strainer if you want to remove ice or foam
• Serving glass—I usually grab a mug or rocks glass
• Grater for fresh cinnamon or nutmeg on top

I usually set everything out before I start, so once the espresso’s ready, I can move fast.

Ingredients

I try to pick ingredients that balance sweetness, spice, and that smooth bourbon edge.

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz espresso (or strong brewed coffee)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• ½ oz maple syrup
• ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk or oat milk
• Ice cubes (if you want it chilled)
• Whipped cream for topping
• Cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
• Cinnamon stick (optional, but great for stirring and aroma)

Sometimes I tweak the maple syrup to control the sweetness, and I go for oat milk if I’m in a dairy-free mood.

Instructions

I always start by brewing the espresso so it’s fresh and hot.

• Warm up the milk or oat milk in a small saucepan until it’s steaming.
• Whisk in the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until everything’s smooth.
• Pour that mixture into a cocktail shaker.
• Add the bourbon and espresso.
• Shake well if you’re serving it over ice, or just stir if you want it warm.
• Strain into your mug or glass.
• Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Pop in a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.

I try to serve it right away so the aroma and foam don’t fade.

Notes

I usually go for a medium-bodied bourbon that won’t drown out the pumpkin spice. This drink works hot or iced, so you can make it fit your mood or the weather.

If I want more coffee flavor, I’ll use a double shot of espresso. If I’m after something lighter, I just add more milk.

Freshly grated nutmeg on top gives it a warm finish, and a swirl of whipped cream makes the texture super smooth.

Tasting Notes

I take a first sip and instantly notice the smooth warmth of bourbon. It mingles with the pumpkin spice flavor, giving off a cozy, autumn vibe that makes me think of chilly evenings and crunchy leaves.

The coffee base brings a gentle bitterness that balances out the sweetness. I pick up hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove—they add layers, but the drink never feels heavy.

These spices don’t take over; they just round things out. I really like how the creamy texture takes the sharp edge off the bourbon.

It’s rich, but somehow still easy to drink. The pumpkin flavor stays mellow and natural—nothing too sweet or fake, thankfully.

As the drink warms up in my hands, the aroma gets stronger. I catch whiffs of vanilla, brown sugar, and toasted spice, which totally remind me of classic seasonal flavors.

It’s a comforting mix, honestly, and I just want to sit back and enjoy it for a while.