If you want to bring the taste of fall to your next gathering, a Pumpkin Pie Martini is a simple and delicious choice.
This cocktail captures the creamy, sweet, and spiced flavors of a classic pumpkin pie in an easy-to-make drink. Each sip tastes like dessert in a glass, making it a fun treat for adults.
I like serving Pumpkin Pie Martinis for holidays or cozy nights at home.
If you enjoy pumpkin flavors, this drink is sure to impress your guests or make your evening special
Pumpkin Pie Martini Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker: For mixing the drink and chilling the ingredients.
- Jigger: For measuring the spirits and syrups.
- Martini Glass: The classic choice for serving this cocktail.
- Small Plate: To help rim the glass with graham cracker crumbs, if desired.
- Spoon or Stir Stick: For mixing before shaking.
- Ice: Needed to chill and dilute the drink slightly.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz Irish cream liqueur
- 1 oz pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
- 1 oz half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp simple syrup or maple syrup for extra flavor
- 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Optional Garnish: whipped cream cinnamon stick, graham cracker crumbs for rimming
Instructions
- If I want to rim the glass, I dip the rim in a bit of syrup, then press it into graham cracker crumbs.
- I add ice to the cocktail shaker.
- I measure and pour in the vodka, Irish cream liqueur, pumpkin puree, half-and-half or cream, syrup, and pumpkin pie spice.
- I close the shaker and shake hard for 20 seconds so it gets cold and frothy.
- I strain the mix into the prepared martini glass.
- I top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice, if I’d like. I can also add a cinnamon stick for a garnish.
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I take a sip of the Pumpkin Pie Martini, the first thing I notice is the smooth, creamy texture.
The drink has a gentle spice that reminds me of autumn desserts.
The flavor is a blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and vanilla, with hints of nutmeg.
It is sweet, but not too strong. The pumpkin flavor stands out without being overwhelming.
I find the aroma to be inviting, with a slight scent of whipped cream on top.
The cocktail is easy to drink and not too heavy.
Notable flavors in each sip:
- Pumpkin spice
- Smooth vanilla
- Hints of creamy liqueur
The ice-cold temperature helps the flavors stay balanced.
I can taste a hint of alcohol, but it never overpowers the other ingredients.
Substitute
Sometimes, I just don’t have all the ingredients for a Pumpkin Pie Martini. It happens, right?
Here are a few swaps I’ve tried when I’m in a pinch:
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz regular vodka (if you don’t have vanilla vodka)
- 1 oz pumpkin puree with a splash of simple syrup (in place of pumpkin liqueur)
- 1 oz milk or your favorite nondairy creamer (instead of half-and-half)
- 1/4 tsp pumpkin spice (if you’re out of cinnamon or nutmeg)
Instructions
- Add vodka, pumpkin puree with syrup, and milk or creamer to the shaker.
- Shake well with ice.
- Strain into a martini glass.
- Sprinkle some pumpkin spice on top.
If I’m making a non-alcoholic version, I’ll swap in cold brewed chai tea for the vodka. For creamy texture, I usually reach for oat milk or coconut milk—both work pretty well.

