Spiced Pumpkin Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

I always look forward to fall. Cozy drinks, warm flavors—what’s not to love?

If you’re into classic old fashioneds, you might want to shake things up with a pumpkin spice version. It’s got the familiar cocktail vibe, but with just enough pumpkin and spice to make it feel like autumn in a glass.

I like how easy this is to make at home. The pumpkin flavor isn’t overpowering at all—it just sort of melts into the bourbon and bitters.

Spiced Pumpkin Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

This one’s all about smooth bourbon, pumpkin, and a handful of warm spices. Orange bitters, brown sugar, and a cinnamon stick bring out those cozy fall notes.

Equipment

• Old fashioned glass
• Jigger or small measuring cup
• Bar spoon or long spoon
• Cocktail muddler
• Small saucepan (if you’re making syrup)
• Fine mesh strainer
• Short knife or peeler (for the orange)

I usually grab my favorite glass and make sure it’s clean. The muddler is key for mashing sugar and spices together.

If you’re making your own syrup, you’ll want that strainer. No one wants pumpkin chunks in their drink.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz pumpkin syrup (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 oz brown sugar (totally optional)
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• 1 tsp pumpkin puree
• 1 pinch pumpkin pie spice
• 1 orange wedge
• 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

I like using real pumpkin puree—it just tastes richer. Orange bitters give it a little zing.

Brown sugar is up to you, but honestly, it does make the drink feel a bit more like dessert.

Instructions

• Add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin syrup to your glass.
• Muddle them together until you get a smooth-ish mix.
• Pour in the bourbon, then the orange bitters and pumpkin pie spice.
• Toss in some ice cubes—however many you like.
• Stir with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds, or until it’s cold.
• Squeeze an orange wedge over the top and drop it in.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

I usually stir a bit longer than I think I should, just to make sure everything’s mixed and chilled. The orange wedge and cinnamon stick make it look pretty festive.

Notes

You can buy pumpkin syrup, but honestly, making it at home isn’t hard. Just simmer water, sugar, pumpkin puree, and spices, then strain.

If you like your drinks sweeter, go ahead and add more brown sugar.

Crushed ice makes it lighter, but I prefer big cubes—they keep the drink cold without watering it down too fast.

Fresh orange is a must for the wedge. The cinnamon stick? It’s not just for looks; it adds a subtle flavor as you sip.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Spiced Pumpkin Old Fashioned, the first thing that hits me is the gentle warmth of the bourbon. Its smoothness gives the drink a strong base, but it doesn’t drown out the other flavors.

That classic pumpkin spice flavor shows up next. I can pick out hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, all circling around the sweetness of the pumpkin.

It’s not too sweet, just enough to keep things interesting. There’s a soft, earthy note from the pumpkin purée, and it kind of blends in with the spices.

The purée also adds this creamy texture, making the cocktail feel rich but still totally drinkable. I get a little bit of orange from the bitters, which adds some brightness and keeps the balance right.

The orange peel garnish gives a fresh burst every time I take a sip. I love that little pop of citrus.

The drink feels great to sip, especially in the fall. Each taste reminds me of crisp autumn days and my favorite seasonal treats.