I really love mixing up fall cocktails at home. Few things scream autumn more than pumpkin spice.
This Pumpkin Spice Syringe Shooter Cocktail recipe is such a playful, easy way to bring your favorite fall flavors to any party. The blend of pumpkin spice and creamy goodness—honestly, it tastes just like fall in a glass.
Every time I whip up these shooters, my friends can’t wait to grab one. They look super cool, taste fantastic, and add a little spark to the table.
If you want a simple way to wow your guests with a delicious autumn drink, give this one a shot. (Pun intended, sorry!)
Pumpkin Spice Syringe Shooter Cocktail Recipe
I like serving these pumpkin spice syringe shooters at fall parties because they’re seriously tasty and, honestly, just fun to make. The combo of pumpkin, spices, and creamy liquor makes every sip feel a little festive.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Measuring jigger or shot glass
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spoon or whisk
- 1–2 large 60ml (2oz) food-safe plastic syringes (for serving)
- Sieve or fine mesh strainer (if using pumpkin puree)
- Small shallow dish (for graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles)
- Small plates or napkins
- Chilled shot glasses (optional, if not using syringes)
I use big food-grade syringes for the best shooter effect. A shaker gets everything mixed well, and the sieve keeps things smooth.
For a little extra flair, I prep dishes with graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles so I can rim the syringes or glasses.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vanilla vodka or caramel vodka
- 1.5 oz pumpkin spice liqueur or pumpkin pie cream liqueur
- 1 oz RumChata or pumpkin spice creamer
- 1 oz pumpkin puree (strained for smoothness)
- 0.5 oz maple syrup (or simple syrup)
- 1/8 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground ginger
- 1 pinch ground cloves (optional)
- Whipped cream for topping
- Graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles for rimming
- Ice cubes
I really recommend using real pumpkin puree for that true pumpkin flavor, but straining it is key so it doesn’t clog up the syringe. Sometimes I’ll add a little extra maple syrup if I’m in the mood for more sweetness.
Whipped cream and graham cracker crumbs? They basically turn these shooters into a mini dessert.
Instructions
- 2 oz vanilla vodka or caramel vodka
- 1.5 oz pumpkin spice liqueur or pumpkin pie cream liqueur
- 1 oz RumChata or pumpkin spice creamer
- 1 oz pumpkin puree (strained for smoothness)
- 0.5 oz maple syrup (or simple syrup)
- 1/8 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground ginger
- 1 pinch ground cloves (optional)
- Whipped cream for topping
- Graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles for rimming
Notes
If the pumpkin puree feels too thick, I’ll thin it with a splash of milk or creamer before mixing. It makes everything easier to draw up in the syringe and smoother to drink.
For a booze-free version, I just use pumpkin spice creamer, pumpkin puree, and a bit of milk instead of the liquors. The rim and whipped cream still make it feel like dessert.
Try swapping in whipped cream vodka or caramel vodka for something different. Graham cracker crumbs are classic, but colored sprinkles definitely make things more festive.
I always serve these shooters cold—chilling the mix and the syringes makes a big difference.
Equipment
- Measuring jigger or shot glass
- Mixing bowl and whisk (optional)
- Fine mesh strainer (if using pumpkin puree)
- 1–2 food-safe plastic syringes (2 oz each)
- Small dish (for graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles)
- Napkins or shot glasses (optional, for serving)
Ingredients
For the Shooter:
- 2 oz vanilla or caramel vodka
- 1.5 oz pumpkin spice liqueur or pumpkin pie cream liqueur
- 1 oz RumChata or pumpkin spice creamer
- 1 oz strained pumpkin puree
- ½ oz maple syrup or simple syrup
- ⅛ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg
- Pinch ground ginger
- Pinch ground cloves optional
- Ice cubes
- Toppings & Garnish:
- Whipped cream for topping
- Graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles for rim
Instructions
- Rim your syringes or serving shot glasses with maple syrup, then dip into graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles.
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, liqueur, RumChata (or creamer), pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and all spices to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds until chilled and well mixed.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve (especially if using pumpkin puree) into a clean measuring glass or bowl.
- Draw the mixture into food-safe syringes.
- Just before serving, top each with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Serve immediately on a tray or over shot glasses for added presentation.
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I take a sip, the first thing that hits me is the gentle pumpkin spice flavor. It’s not too strong, thankfully.
There’s a nice warmth from the spices, but nothing too overpowering. I really like how the sweetness and spice balance each other out.
The creamy texture makes every sip feel extra smooth. Here’s a quick rundown of what I taste:
- Pumpkin: mild, never overwhelming
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: you notice them, but they’re not shouting
- Vanilla: soft, in the background
- Creaminess: gives it a smooth finish
The spirits blend in well. The alcohol’s there, but it’s not harsh or burning.
If you go lighter on the syrup, you might notice the pumpkin comes forward more. For dessert lovers, the creamy and spiced taste might remind you of pumpkin pie.
The finish is light, and after swallowing, I get a soft, spiced flavor lingering. It’s festive, cozy, and honestly, just feels like fall.
Each sip is a little treat, but not too heavy.
Substitute
Sometimes, I just don’t have every single ingredient for the Pumpkin Spice Syringe Shooter Cocktail. It happens more often than I’d like to admit.
It’s always nice having a few backup options in your back pocket. Here’s what I usually reach for if I need to swap something out.
Equipment:
- Small glasses or clear cups work fine if shot glasses are missing.
- I’ll grab measuring spoons if my jigger is nowhere to be found.
- Regular kitchen syringes totally do the trick if cocktail syringes are elusive.
Ingredients:
- Vanilla vodka or even plain vodka—either one is fine if pumpkin spice vodka is gone.
- I sometimes use pumpkin pie spice in place of the pre-mixed pumpkin spice syrup.
- Coffee creamer (pumpkin flavor is honestly great) can stand in for heavy cream.
- If I’m out of simple syrup, maple syrup works surprisingly well.
- Nutmeg or cinnamon can step in if pumpkin spice isn’t around.
Instructions:
- I just swap the vodka or liqueur for whatever I have, using the same amounts.
- If I end up using creamer, I make sure to shake the mix really well so it’s not weirdly separated.
- With spices, I like to sprinkle them on top right before serving.
- No syringe? No problem—I’ll just pour the mixture straight into the cups and call it good.
