If you like autumn flavors and classic cocktails, you might want to try something new. My Pumpkin Whiskey Negroni cocktail is a fun, cozy twist on the traditional Negroni, bringing pumpkin spice and warmth into every sip.
It’s an easy recipe that adds a touch of seasonal flavor to happy hour.
I love sharing recipes that mix the familiar with something unexpected. The bold taste of whiskey and the hint of pumpkin make this drink stand out at any gathering.
If you’re curious about how to make your own Pumpkin Whiskey Negroni at home, I’ll walk you through exactly what you need and the steps to put it all together.
Pumpkin Whiskey Negroni Cocktail Recipe
This Pumpkin Whiskey Negroni puts a fall-inspired twist on a classic drink. It uses pumpkin flavors, bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth to make a rich, spiced cocktail that feels cozy and special.
Equipment
- Rocks glass: I like to serve this cocktail over a big ice cube in a sturdy rocks glass.
- Cocktail shaker or mixing glass: A shaker works if I want a frothy finish, but a mixing glass also stirs the flavors together well.
- Jigger or measuring spoons: To make sure I have the right ratios for each ingredient.
- Bar spoon or stirrer: I use this to mix everything smoothly.
- Strainer: If I use a shaker, I pour the mix through a strainer to remove pulp or ice shards.
- Peeler or zester: For making an orange twist garnish.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz bourbon (or whiskey of choice)
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 tbsp pumpkin puree (for a smooth taste) or ¾ oz pumpkin syrup / pumpkin spice syrup
- ½ oz simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness if using plain puree)
- 1 dash angostura bitters (optional, adds depth)
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel (garnish)
- Pinch of pumpkin pie spice (for garnish, optional)
Tip: If I use pumpkin spice syrup, I can skip the extra syrup and bitters. Pumpkin syrup gives more sweetness and spice, while puree creates a creamy feel.
Instructions
- Add bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth, and my choice of pumpkin puree or pumpkin syrup to a shaker or mixing glass.
- Add simple syrup and bitters if using plain pumpkin puree, then fill with ice cubes.
- Shake the ingredients well if I want a slightly frothy texture, or stir for a smooth, classic finish.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if I want extra aroma.
- Serve right away.
Equipment
- Bar spoon or stirrer
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz bourbon or whiskey
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 tbsp pumpkin puree or ¾ oz pumpkin spice syrup
- ½ oz simple syrup only if using pumpkin puree
- 1 dash Angostura bitters optional
- Ice cubes
- 1 orange peel for garnish
- Pinch of pumpkin pie spice optional garnish
Instructions
- Add bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth, and either pumpkin puree or pumpkin syrup to a shaker or mixing glass.
- If using pumpkin puree, also add simple syrup and bitters.
- Shake for a silky texture or stir for a smoother finish, depending on your preference.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a light sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Pumpkin whiskey negronis are flexible. I swap bourbon for rye when I like a bit more spice, or keep it classic with bourbon.
Using pumpkin puree gives a mild, earthy flavor. But pumpkin spice syrup is quicker and adds more sweetness and aroma.
A cocktail shaker gives the drink a silky feel and foamy top, especially with real pumpkin. A mixing glass makes a smoother sip.
If I want a bigger batch, I multiply the recipe and mix in a pitcher. The drink keeps well in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Tasting Notes
When I take my first sip, the pumpkin whiskey stands out right away. It adds a mild sweetness and a gentle warmth that makes the drink comforting, especially as an autumn drink.
The bitter notes from the Campari mix with the pumpkin’s earthy flavor. I taste a little spice, almost like cinnamon or nutmeg, even when they’re not added.
This reminds me of classic pumpkin cocktails, but with a unique twist.
The garnish of toasted pumpkin seeds adds a light crunch and a hint of nuttiness. I think it balances the drink, giving it texture and just a little bit extra.
Each glass feels perfect for a cozy night or small autumn gathering. I find the cocktail isn’t too sweet or too bitter.
It has a nice balance that makes it easy for me to enjoy another sip.
Substitute
Sometimes I run out of certain ingredients or just want to try something new in my Pumpkin Whiskey Negroni.
Here are a few ways I like to switch things up:
- If pumpkin spice isn’t in the cabinet, I’ll grab ground cinnamon or a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s not exactly the same, but that cozy warmth still comes through.
- Every now and then, I swap whiskey for bourbon or rye. Each one brings its own little twist.
- For a change of pace, I’ll use an orange peel instead of pumpkin as a garnish. Sometimes I reach for a cinnamon stick—it looks good and smells even better.
Instructions for Substitutions
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg slowly—no need to overpower the drink.
- If you’re using orange peel, twist it a bit to get those oils out before dropping it in.
- Want a bolder flavor? Try swapping in other dark spirits and see what happens.
Here’s what I have handy for these swaps:
