When I want to serve a fall-inspired drink, I turn to a Pumpkin Pie Martini.
This cocktail blends pumpkin flavor, spices, and a creamy finish for a seasonal martini you can make at home.
Cocktail Shaker: For mixing the drink and chilling the ingredients.
Jigger: For measuring the spirits and syrups.
Strainer: To ensure a smooth pour without ice or residue.
Martini Glass: The classic choice for serving this cocktail.
Small Plate: To help rim the glass with graham cracker crumbs, if desired.
Spoon or Stir Stick: For mixing before shaking.
Ice: Needed to chill and dilute the drink slightly.
Ingredients
2ozvanilla vodka
1ozIrish cream liqueur
1ozpumpkin pureenot pumpkin pie filling
1ozhalf-and-half or heavy cream
1tbspsimple syrupor maple syrup for extra flavor
1/4tsppumpkin pie spice
Optional Garnish: whipped creamcinnamon stick, graham cracker crumbs for rimming
Instructions
If I want to rim the glass, I dip the rim in a bit of syrup, then press it into graham cracker crumbs.
I add ice to the cocktail shaker.
I measure and pour in the vodka, Irish cream liqueur, pumpkin puree, half-and-half or cream, syrup, and pumpkin pie spice.
I close the shaker and shake hard for 20 seconds so it gets cold and frothy.
I strain the mix into the prepared martini glass.
I top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice, if I’d like. I can also add a cinnamon stick for a garnish.
Notes
Using real pumpkin puree helps make the drink rich and creamy.I always check that I’m not using pumpkin pie filling, because it can be too sweet and spiced already.If I want a sweeter drink, I use maple syrup instead of simple syrup for extra flavor.For a lighter option, I substitute whole milk in place of cream, but it will be less rich.It helps to double strain if I want a completely smooth drink.If I rim the glass, I do it before making the cocktail so the crumbs stick well.This recipe works best served fresh and cold.