When the leaves start turning and the air gets that crisp snap, I can’t help but crave cozy fall flavors in my drinks. My Pumpkin Spice Tequila Sour is an easy, tasty twist on a classic tequila sour, and honestly, it’s perfect for anyone who’s obsessed with pumpkin spice.
It’s a simple way to enjoy a fall cocktail at home—plus, it’s a little different from the usual.
Pumpkin spice and tequila might sound like a weird combo at first, but trust me, the earthy tequila and those warm spices actually get along really well. The result is balanced, not overly sweet, and just has that right hint of fall.
If you’re in the mood for something fun and seasonal, I’d say this pumpkin spice tequila sour deserves a spot on your must-try list.
Pumpkin Spice Tequila Sour Cocktail Recipe
When I make a Pumpkin Spice Tequila Sour, I keep things pretty simple—just some basic tools and a handful of fall-inspired ingredients. Good tequila and real pumpkin spices really make a difference here.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker: Gotta have this to get everything nice and cold.
- Jigger or measuring spoons: For when I actually bother to measure instead of eyeballing it.
- Rocks glass: My go-to for serving, fits the drink and ice perfectly.
- Strainer: Keeps out any weird bits when I pour.
- Small bowl or plate: Handy for prepping the sugar or cinnamon rim.
- Bar spoon: Useful for stirring or scooping in pumpkin puree.
- Citrus juicer: Squeezing fresh lime juice is just easier with this.
- Optional: Sometimes I’ll grate a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top—why not?
Having the right tools just makes things smoother and keeps the drinks consistent.
Ingredients
- 2 oz reposado tequila
- 1 oz fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 oz maple syrup or simple syrup
- 1 ½ tbsp pumpkin puree
- ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Brown sugar or cinnamon sugar (for rimming)
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove (for garnish or extra spice)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
- Ice
I always reach for a smooth reposado tequila—it plays so well with the pumpkin and spices. Real pumpkin puree is a must for me; pumpkin spice syrup just doesn’t cut it.
Maple syrup brings a cozy sweetness, and the garnish, especially a cinnamon stick, makes the whole thing smell like fall.
Instructions
- Prepare the glass: I swipe the rim with lime juice, then dip it into brown sugar or cinnamon sugar for that sweet, spiced edge.
- Combine ingredients: Into the shaker goes tequila, lime juice, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Add ice: I fill the shaker with ice to get everything chilled.
- Shake well: A good, hard shake for about 15 seconds does the trick.
- Strain: I pour it through a strainer into my sugar-rimmed rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish: A dusting of cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove on top, and maybe a cinnamon stick if I’m feeling fancy.
I always make sure the pumpkin puree is really mixed in—nobody wants a clumpy cocktail.
Notes
The sugar rim isn’t just for looks—it adds a sweet balance to the tart lime and earthy pumpkin. Sometimes I’ll swap in honey for maple syrup if I’m in the mood for something different.
Fresh lime juice makes everything pop, so I always squeeze my own.
If I feel like making Pumpkin Spice Margaritas, I’ll add a splash of orange liqueur and just use cinnamon sugar on the rim. Want it lighter? I cut back the syrup and up the lime juice.
If the drink seems too thick, I shake it longer or throw in a little more ice. A pinch of ground clove or nutmeg on top is great for extra spice.
Equipment
- Small bowl or plate (for rimming)
- Optional: fine grater for spices
Ingredients
- 2 oz reposado tequila
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz maple syrup or simple syrup
- 1 ½ tbsp pumpkin puree
- ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Brown sugar or cinnamon sugar for rim
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
- 1 cinnamon stick optional, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Strain into the prepared rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or a cinnamon stick.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy vibes!
Tasting Notes
That first sip? It’s all cozy fall flavors. The tequila brings a gentle warmth, and the pumpkin spice comes through with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.
I notice it’s smooth, with a bit of tartness that keeps it refreshing.
Pumpkin puree gives the drink a creamy texture. It pairs up perfectly with the sour notes from the lime.
It’s not too sweet, so I don’t feel guilty having another.
A little garnish goes a long way—a cinnamon stick or orange twist makes it look and smell inviting.
Here’s what I pick up in the flavors:
- Pumpkin spice: Warm, earthy, super comforting
- Tequila: Smooth, with a little kick
- Lime: Bright and zippy
- Sweetener: Just enough, not overpowering
This cocktail fits right in with my other seasonal favorites. It’s familiar but a little unexpected, thanks to the tequila and pumpkin combo.
Honestly, it’s the kind of cozy drink that makes me want to curl up on a cool evening and catch up with friends. The scent and taste of those fall spices really set the mood for autumn.
Substitute
Sometimes, I just don’t have every ingredient or piece of equipment on hand. Here are a few easy swaps I like to use:
-
Tequila Substitute:
- Mezcal is a solid stand-in for tequila. It brings a slightly smoky note that actually plays pretty well with pumpkin spice.
Glassware Options:
-
Glassware Options:
- No chilled coupe? No problem—I grab a martini glass instead. Both keep the drink looking nice and feeling cool.
Equipment, Ingredients, and Instructions in Bullet List:
- Equipment:
- Ingredients:
- Tequila or mezcal
- Pumpkin spice syrup or whatever substitute I’ve got
- Fresh lemon or lime juice
- Egg white or aquafaba
- Instructions:
- Toss everything into the shaker.
- Shake it up with ice.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish if I’m feeling fancy.
