There’s just something about a cozy drink once the weather cools off, isn’t there? My Pumpkin Bourbon Smash cocktail is the perfect fall cocktail if you want pumpkin flavor with the warm kick of bourbon.
Each sip mixes sweet pumpkin with spicy notes and a little citrus—great for evenings, gatherings, or just a treat after dinner.
I’m a sucker for a good bourbon cocktail in the fall. This pumpkin bourbon smash is one I love sharing.
If you’re after a simple smash cocktail that tastes like autumn, I’ll walk you through it. It’s easy, flavorful, and honestly, a fun twist on classic pumpkin punch.
Pumpkin Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe
Making this fall-inspired bourbon cocktail at home is a little ritual for me. It brings together smooth bourbon with real pumpkin puree, warm spices, and fresh citrus for a flavor that’s cozy but still bold.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker: I use this to combine and chill everything.
- Jigger: This helps me measure so the cocktail turns out right.
- Bar spoon: I stir with this, making sure the flavors actually mix.
- Strainer: I strain out the ice and any pulp when pouring.
- Rocks glass: This is where the magic ends up.
- Small bowl or plate: Handy for rimming the glass with cinnamon sugar if I’m feeling fancy.
- Measuring spoons: For spices or syrup—sometimes you just need to be precise.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon: I go for something smooth and flavorful.
- 1 oz pumpkin puree: Pure, unsweetened pumpkin gives the best flavor.
- 1 oz maple syrup: Real maple syrup, always, for that deep sweetness.
- 1/2 oz lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice just brightens everything up.
- 1 oz orange juice: Adds a fruity twist and some extra freshness.
- 2 dashes orange bitters: These deepen the flavor, trust me.
- Ginger beer (to top): Ginger beer for fizz and a bit of spice.
- Cinnamon stick: Makes a warm garnish and smells amazing.
- Ice: Plenty for shaking and serving.
Instructions
- I fill the cocktail shaker with ice to chill everything down.
- Then in goes the bourbon, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, lemon juice, orange juice, and bitters.
- I shake it hard for about 15 seconds, so the pumpkin blends in and the drink gets nice and cold.
- Next, I strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- I top it off with a splash of ginger beer for that gentle fizz.
- Sometimes I’ll toss in a cinnamon stick or sprinkle a little cinnamon on top.
- If I’m feeling extra, I’ll rim the glass with cinnamon sugar before pouring.
Notes
- I always go for real pumpkin puree, not pie filling, so I can control the sweetness.
- Maple syrup balances the pumpkin without covering up the bourbon.
- Want it spicier? Add an extra dash of bitters or a pinch of ground cinnamon.
- Any bourbon works, but I pick one I’d actually sip on its own.
- Sometimes I add a bit more lemon juice or a twist of orange peel for extra citrus.
- I play with the ginger beer amount depending on how fizzy or bold I want it.
- It’s best served right after mixing—no one likes a lukewarm cocktail.
Equipment
- Small bowl or plate (optional, for cinnamon sugar rim)
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz pumpkin puree unsweetened
- 1 oz maple syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Ginger beer to top
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: cinnamon stick orange slice, or a sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds, until chilled and fully blended.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Top with ginger beer to taste.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick, orange slice, or dusting of cinnamon if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Tasting Notes
First sip? The pumpkin spice warmth hits right away. It blends with the bourbon’s caramel notes, making the whole thing taste smooth and, well, cozy.
There’s a sweet aroma with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. These spices always remind me of autumn and chilly weather.
The ice gives it a crisp, cold edge. Sweetness is there, but it’s not too much.
If I’m in the mood for a mocktail version, I swap the bourbon for apple cider or more ginger beer. It still has that fall drink vibe, with the pumpkin spice shining through even more.
I like to garnish with a cinnamon stick or an orange slice. Makes it look festive, and the scent is just a bonus with every sip.
Substitute
If I’m out of bourbon, I usually just grab whiskey or rye. Either one does the trick and honestly, the taste is close enough that I don’t miss much.
Sometimes I’ll even mix them—why not use what’s around?
For a non-alcoholic option, I like to whip up a quick mocktail.
Here’s my go-to:
- Equipment:Â glass, shaker, measuring spoon
-
Ingredients:
- apple cider or sparkling apple juice
- pumpkin puree
- cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
- a drop of vanilla extract
- ice
Instructions:
- Toss pumpkin puree, apple cider, and whatever spices I’m feeling into a shaker.
- Shake it up with ice.
- Pour into a glass, and if I’m feeling fancy, top with a few apple slices.
If I’m out of pumpkin pie spice, I just throw together a pinch of cinnamon and ginger. Sometimes I’ll sneak in a bit of nutmeg or allspice, too.
Want it less sweet? I dial back the vanilla or leave it out completely. Apple cider and apple juice both work, so I just use whichever is in the fridge—they both play really well with pumpkin and spices.
