Pumpkin spice is just right if you love fall drinks. I’m a fan of simple cocktails at home, so I tried mixing a classic White Russian with that unmistakable pumpkin spice vibe.
You can make a Pumpkin Spice White Russian at home by adding pumpkin spice flavors to the usual coffee liqueur, vodka, and cream.
This twist makes the drink cozy and comforting, with a hint of festive flavor. It’s easy to prepare and uses basic ingredients you might already have on hand.
If you’re after something a little different and a bit seasonal for your cocktail glass, this recipe is fun and honestly pretty straightforward.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
- Rocks glass (old-fashioned glass)
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for a smoother drink)
- Grater or zester (for optional nutmeg garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur like Kahlúa
- 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 oz pumpkin spice syrup store-bought or homemade
- Ice cubes enough to fill the glass
Instructions
- Fill the rocks glass with ice cubes to chill it.
- In the cocktail shaker (or jar), add vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin spice syrup, and heavy cream.
- Secure the lid and shake well for 10–15 seconds until the mix is cold and creamy.
- Strain the drink into the prepared rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg using the grater or zester.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The first sip? Creamy, instantly. It’s smooth and just kind of coats your mouth in a good way.
The flavor starts off sweet from the pumpkin spice. I pick up cinnamon, nutmeg, a little clove—all blending into the coffee liqueur’s richness.
I like how the creaminess balances out the alcohol. The vodka brings a touch of warmth but doesn’t take over.
Key tasting hints:
- Sweet pumpkin aroma as I lift the glass
- Light spices lingering after each sip
- No single flavor stands out too much, making the drink feel smooth and easy to enjoy
The flavors are gentle, easy to drink. I think it’s best chilled and served over plenty of ice.
Substitute
Sometimes I just don’t have every ingredient at home. There are a few simple swaps I like to use for the Pumpkin Spice White Russian.
If I run out of pumpkin spice liqueur, I’ll grab some spices and a little pumpkin puree instead. It’s not exactly the same, but it gets the job done.
Possible Ingredient Swaps:
- Pumpkin Spice Liqueur: Mix 1 oz regular coffee liqueur with 1 tsp pumpkin puree and 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice.
- Vodka: I swap with vanilla vodka for extra flavor. Sometimes I’ll even use spiced rum if I’m feeling adventurous.
- Heavy Cream: I sometimes use milk, half-and-half, or even a non-dairy creamer if I want something lighter (or that’s just what’s in the fridge).
Alternative Equipment:
- Cocktail shaker: If I don’t have a proper shaker, a mason jar with a lid totally works.
- Strainer: A small kitchen sieve does the trick if my cocktail strainer has vanished again.
Substitute Instructions:
- Add pumpkin puree and spice to the glass with the coffee liqueur.
- Stir until mixed well, then add vodka.
- Top with cream or whatever substitute you’re working with. Stir gently and enjoy.
