I love cozy drinks when the weather cools down. Nothing beats the rich flavors of pumpkin spice mixed with a splash of whiskey.
This easy Pumpkin Spice Whiskey Latte Cocktail brings together smooth coffee, warm spices, and a little kick. It’s perfect for fall or whenever you want a comforting treat.
If you’re curious about making your own, the steps are simple and the ingredients are easy to track down. This drink works for relaxing at home or sharing with friends.
Pumpkin Spice Whiskey Latte Cocktail Recipe
I like this drink because it blends pumpkin spice, coffee, and whiskey into a warm, cozy treat. Each step and ingredient adds flavor and helps create a creamy, spiced latte with a special twist.
Equipment
- Mixing glass or shaker
- Milk frother or small whisk
- Saucepan (if heating milk or making pumpkin syrup)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Espresso machine or coffee maker
- Cocktail glass or mug
- Spoon
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, if you want extra smoothness)
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye both work well)
- 1–2 shots espresso or ½ cup strong coffee
- ⅔ cup whole milk (or milk of your choice)
- 1½ tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or sugar, adjust for taste)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a blend: ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, allspice)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Pinch ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- Cinnamon stick (optional, for stir or garnish)
Instructions
- Brew espresso or make strong coffee.
- In a saucepan, combine milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Warm over medium heat and stir until smooth and steamy.
- Froth or whisk the milk mixture until thick and foamy.
- Pour brewed coffee into a cocktail glass or mug.
- Add whiskey and the warm, frothed pumpkin-milk mixture.
- Stir gently to mix everything together.
- Top with whipped cream, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and a cinnamon stick if you like.
- Serve hot. Enjoy your pumpkin spice whiskey latte.
Notes
I find whole milk makes the latte extra creamy, but oat milk or almond milk works too. Adjust the amount of maple syrup or sugar for your sweetness level.
You can use store-bought pumpkin pie spice, or mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and clove. For a stronger pumpkin flavor, just add a bit more pumpkin puree.
For a cold version, cool the coffee and milk mixture, shake everything with ice, then strain into a glass over ice. I sometimes toss in a tiny pinch of ground ginger or extra cinnamon for a spicier kick.
If you want a smoother drink, strain the milk mixture before adding. Whipped cream is optional but, honestly, it makes the drink feel special.
Equipment
- Milk frother or small whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Espresso machine or coffee maker
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey bourbon or rye
- 1 –2 shots espresso or ½ cup strong coffee
- ⅔ cup whole milk or milk of choice
- 1½ tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar, adjust to taste
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice or a cinnamon-nutmeg-ginger blend
- Whipped cream for topping
- Pinch of ground cinnamon for garnish
- 1 cinnamon stick optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Brew espresso or prepare strong coffee.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and heated through.
- Froth or whisk the milk mixture until foamy and creamy.
- Pour the brewed espresso or coffee into a cocktail glass or mug.
- Add whiskey and the frothed pumpkin-milk mixture.
- Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Tasting Notes
When I take my first sip of this Pumpkin Spice Whiskey Latte Cocktail, I notice a smooth blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The pumpkin flavor reminds me of a classic homemade pumpkin spice latte, but the whiskey gives it a grown-up twist.
There’s a creamy, rich texture from the milk and a gentle sweetness that doesn’t overpower the drink. The espresso stands out, adding a deep roasted taste that balances the pumpkin and spice.
Here are some flavors I pick up:
- Pumpkin: Soft and not too strong
- Spice: Cinnamon and nutmeg are upfront
- Coffee: Pleasant and gently bitter
- Whiskey: Warming without being harsh
- Sweetness: Present, but not overwhelming
Each sip feels comforting, like a homemade pumpkin spice latte with a little kick. I also notice how the flavors come together without fighting for attention.
The finish is mellow, leaving behind a soft mix of pumpkin spice and whiskey warmth.
This cocktail is easy to drink and perfect for fall gatherings or quiet nights in.
Substitute
Sometimes I run out of whiskey or just want to shake things up. Here are a few ways I switch up my Pumpkin Spice Whiskey Latte Cocktail.
Whiskey Substitutes:
- Spiced rum: Feels warm and brings extra spice to the drink.
- Dark rum: Adds depth and a hint of molasses.
- Vanilla vodka: For a smoother, sweeter flavor.
- Tequila: Offers a fun, bold twist.
Other Mix-Ins:
- Eggnog: I swap out some or all of the milk for eggnog to make it extra creamy.
- Salted caramel syrup: Adds sweetness and a little saltiness which pairs well with pumpkin spice.
If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t stress. Just pick one of these options.
The cocktail will still taste great, and honestly, it can be fun to see what happens with a new flavor in the mix!
