Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

ByJohn

I’m always up for experimenting with classic cocktails, especially when the seasons shift. The Old Fashioned is a long-time favorite of mine, and adding a little pumpkin spice just turns it into the ultimate fall treat.

This Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned recipe is a surprisingly simple way to bring those cozy autumn vibes to a classic drink.

Once the air gets chilly, I start craving drinks that feel a little warmer, a little more festive. Pumpkin spice gives the old-fashioned that special holiday twist.

It’s honestly great for any fall get-together, or just a quiet night at home when you want something a little extra.

If you’re after a quick pumpkin spice spin on a classic, you’re in the right place. I’ll walk you through everything you need for this festive sipper.

Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

This Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned brings together the classic bourbon base with all those warm, cozy pumpkin spice notes. I usually go for a homemade pumpkin spice simple syrup—it really makes it taste like autumn in a glass.

The cinnamon and orange just tie it all together in a way that’s hard not to love.

Equipment

A big, clear ice cube is my go-to—it keeps things cold without watering down the drink. I always keep a jigger and bar spoon nearby so I don’t accidentally throw off the balance.

Ingredients

For the pumpkin spice syrup, I sometimes just simmer 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup real pumpkin, 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp clove, and a splash of vanilla extract until it’s all dissolved. Then I let it cool and strain it out.

Instructions

  • Rim your glass with brown sugar (optional) by moistening the rim and dipping it.
  • Add the pumpkin spice syrup and bitters to the glass.
  • Pour in the bourbon or rye whiskey.
  • Drop in a large ice cube.
  • Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and mix.
  • Twist the orange peel over the drink to release oils, then drop it in.
  • Add a cinnamon stick for garnish.
  • If you’re feeling fancy, dust lightly with pumpkin pie spice.

Homemade syrup really does make a difference—there’s just something about the freshness. And the garnish? Not just for looks; the aroma is half the fun.

Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
A cozy twist on the classic bourbon Old Fashioned, this fall-inspired cocktail brings warm pumpkin spice, a hint of citrus, and smooth whiskey together in one festive sip. Perfect for chilly nights, Halloween parties, or anytime you crave autumn in a glass.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1 Cocktail

Equipment

Ingredients

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup (optional):

Instructions

  • Make the pumpkin spice syrup by combining all syrup ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then simmer 5–7 minutes. Strain and cool. (Optional)
  • Rim your rocks glass with brown sugar.(Optional)
  • Add pumpkin spice syrup and bitters to the glass.
  • Pour in bourbon or rye whiskey.
  • Add a large ice cube.
  • Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and combine.
  • Express the orange peel over the glass to release oils, then drop it in.
  • Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice if desired.

Notes

If you want the best flavor, the homemade pumpkin spice syrup is worth the 10-15 minute effort. I stash any leftover syrup in the fridge for up to two weeks.

It’s great in coffee, too—or even over pancakes, if you’re into that.

Bourbon is classic, but rye gives a spicier kick if that’s your thing. No orange bitters in the cabinet? A thin orange slice will give you that citrus pop.

Sometimes I sneak in a drop of vanilla extract for a little extra warmth. The brown sugar rim is totally optional, but it does add a bit of sweetness if you want it.

You can always tweak the syrup amount to suit your taste—sweeter or not-so-sweet, your call.

Tasting Notes

First sip? The pumpkin spice is front and center—super warm and comforting. I get cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little clove in every mouthful.

The bourbon brings this smooth, oaky richness, but it doesn’t drown out the spices. There’s a nice balance, some sweetness, and depth.

I notice a bit of citrus, probably from the orange twist. That brightness really perks up the drink and makes each sip feel fresh.

Texture:

  • Smooth and silky
  • Slight syrupy touch, but never heavy

Flavor Highlights:

  • Spiced pumpkin
  • Oak and vanilla from bourbon
  • Bright citrus from orange
  • Mild sweetness

After a few sips, it’s clear every ingredient has its moment, but they all work together. This cocktail is cozy, smooth, and just sweet enough—never cloying.

Must Have Ingredients

Substitute

Sometimes I run out of an ingredient, or honestly, I just want to mix things up a bit. That’s when I start playing around with easy swaps for my Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned.

Here are a few ideas I keep coming back to:

Equipment:

Ingredients:

  • Whiskey alternative: Rye or bourbon both work pretty well instead of regular whiskey.
  • Pumpkin spice syrup swap: If I’m out of pumpkin syrup, I’ll just use maple syrup with a pinch of pumpkin pie spice.
  • Bitters: Orange or even chocolate bitters can shake things up.
  • Citrus: Lemon peel instead of orange? Surprisingly, it makes the drink feel a bit fresher.

Instructions:

  • Sometimes I swap the whiskey or bourbon for rum if I’m craving a sweeter base.
  • If I’m feeling lazy, I’ll just use 1 oz of store-bought pumpkin spice latte creamer instead of the syrup for a creamy vibe.
  • Bitters are totally up to you. I’ll mix two types together if I’m in the mood.
  • Toss in plenty of ice and give it a good stir, nothing fancy here.

When I’m after more of that Starbucks pumpkin spice latte thing, I’ll add a splash of espresso or maybe a bit of coffee liqueur. It’s kind of wild how quickly it turns into a latte-inspired cocktail.

If I can’t find a certain ingredient, or just don’t feel like using it, I’ll try one of these swaps. That way, I can usually pull together a pretty good drink with whatever’s already in my kitchen.

Hey there, I’m John Watson—a guy who’s spent over 20 years proving that a good drink can fix just about anything (well, almost anything). Whether it’s cocktails that wow or mocktails that mock boredom, I’m all about crafting sips with stories. Founder of ThirstyTales and full-time drink nerd, I’m here to help you shake things up, one glass at a time. Let’s mix, laugh, and maybe spill a little—cheers to the adventure!

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