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I’ll never forget the first chilly October evening I kicked off my slippers, wrapped up in a fuzzy blanket, and sipped the most magical pumpkin spice White Russian I’d ever put together. You know those moments when it’s dark by 6pm, the porch smells like fallen leaves, and you just NEED something cozy in a glass? That was it. (My husband wandered in, tried a sip, and grinned, “Tastes like fall in a mug—and I don’t even like pumpkin.”) Now it’s our go-to fall cocktail, right when we swap iced coffees for cinnamony lattes and start plotting our Thanksgiving menus. If you like your drinks creamy, a little bit boozy, and perfectly spiced, you’re in for a treat—this is comfort food, but for grownups.
Why You’ll Love This
- All the pumpkin spice magic of the season, but in cocktail form (cozy, decadent, a little bit nostalgic—yes, really!)
- Creamy, luscious, and way easier than making a pumpkin pie
- Perfect for fall parties, movie nights, or solo “treat yourself” evenings
- Goes down smooth thanks to coffee liqueur, vodka, and a hint of real pumpkin puree
- Total crowd-pleaser—even for folks who aren’t hardcore pumpkin fans
Ingredient Notes
- Vodka: Classic for a White Russian. Any brand you love. Don’t have vodka? Try bourbon or spiced rum for a little extra warmth.
- Coffee liqueur: Kahlúa is the usual choice, but Tia Maria or even a homemade coffee syrup (with a splash of rum) works in a pinch.
- Pumpkin puree: Yep, the plain canned stuff—NOT pumpkin pie filling. If you’ve got homemade puree from leftover pie pumpkins, use that!
- Heavy cream: Can swap for half-and-half, whole milk, or even a non-dairy creamer if you need (coconut cream is especially nice).
- Pumpkin spice: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves gets you that classic warmth. Or just use store-bought pumpkin pie spice (no shame!).
- Maple syrup or simple syrup (optional): If you like it a touch sweeter, add a drizzle. Totally your call.
- Ice cubes: This drink’s best served cold and creamy!
Optional garnish ideas: A sprinkle of extra pumpkin spice, cinnamon sticks, or even a little dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy.
How To Make a Pumpkin Spice White Russian
1. Mix the pumpkin and spice.
In a small glass or measuring cup, whisk together the pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and (if using) the maple syrup until smooth and blended. This helps the pumpkin disperse nicely instead of clumping up—don’t skip this part! Lumpy pumpkin in your cocktail just isn’t cute.
2. Fill your glass with ice.
Grab your favorite short glass (a rocks glass is perfect), and fill it up with ice cubes. Lots of ice keeps it chilly and makes it feel extra special.
3. Add coffee liqueur, vodka, and pumpkin mix.
Pour the coffee liqueur and vodka over the ice. Plop in the pumpkin-pumpkin spice mixture and give everything a good stir to combine. If you want to get fancy, shake the drink (minus the cream) in a cocktail shaker for a truly smooth finish—totally optional.
4. Top with cream.
Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon right onto the cocktail, so it floats prettily on top before sinking in. Or, y’know, just dump it in. Swirl gently to blend or leave as-is for that classic layered look.
5. Garnish and enjoy!
Sprinkle a little more pumpkin spice over the top, add a cinnamon stick, or go wild with a puff of whipped cream. Maybe even a dusting of nutmeg? Sip away—savor that creamy, spiced, coffee-cocktail bliss.
Pro tip: If you want a super-silky texture, strain the pumpkin mixture through a fine mesh sieve before adding it to your glass. Not required, but nice if you’re picky about texture.
Variations & Fun Twists
- Dairy-free version: Use coconut cream or your favorite plant-based milk (oat, almond, or cashew cream are all dreamy).
- Extra spicy: Add a little extra cinnamon or grate fresh nutmeg on top for a big aroma punch.
- Make it a dessert: Top with vanilla whipped cream and a caramel drizzle. Totally drool-worthy after a fall meal.
- Salted caramel Pumpkin Spice White Russian: Add a splash of caramel syrup to the mix, sprinkle with flaky salt, and thank me later.
- Frozen Pumpkin Spice White Russian: Blend everything (except any garnishes) with a scoop of ice for a slushy, milkshake-style treat. Serve with a pretty straw and prepare for “OMG, this is SO GOOD.”
Storage & Reheating Tips
Honestly, these are best shaken up fresh, but if you’re prepping for a crowd or want to make cocktail hour a breeze, here’s what works:
- Make the pumpkin-spice syrup ahead: Whisk together the pumpkin, pumpkin spice, and syrup—store it in a jar in the fridge for up to 4 days. When happy hour hits, just assemble your drink in 2 minutes flat.
- Pre-mix (without cream): Combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin mix in a pitcher (no ice). Chill until ready to serve, pour over ice, and top with cream per glass. Keeps 24 hours in the fridge.
- If leftovers happen: The cream may separate if you try to store a finished cocktail, so give it a good stir or shake before drinking again. I doubt you’ll have this problem, though—these go fast!
Reheating? Wouldn’t recommend it—these are meant for sipping cold. If you want a warm, boozy pumpkin drink, there are some great pumpkin lattes out there!
Questions & Cozy Goodbyes
If you try this pumpkin spice White Russian, I’d love to hear what you think! Did you make your own spins or mix it up with what you had handy? Did it become your new go-to fall drink, or are you firmly on Team Pumpkin Pie Latte? Let’s swap stories (and maybe favorite vodka brands) down in the comments!
Here’s to snuggly evenings, boozy pumpkin flavors, and finding the perfect cozy moment—one delicious sipper at a time. Cheers, friend!
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Ingredients
- Vodka
- Coffee liqueur Kahlúa recommended
- Pumpkin puree
- Heavy cream
- Pumpkin spice
- Maple syrup or simple syrup optional
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Whisk together pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and optional syrup until smooth.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes to chill the drink.
- Pour coffee liqueur and vodka over ice, add pumpkin mix, and stir well.
- Slowly pour heavy cream over the back of a spoon onto the cocktail.
- Sprinkle more pumpkin spice, add a cinnamon stick, or whipped cream for garnish. Sip and enjoy!
