If the social media countdowns are anything to go off of, pumpkin spice is the most anticipated drink of the fall season. While it's typically enjoyed as a coffee or a dessert, there's no reason why we can't give our favorite autumn drink a boozy kick. Treat yourself to one of our favorite fall flavors with a pumpkin spice martini that's the essence of autumn in a glass.
How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Martini
Every bar has their own special way of making a pumpkin spice martini. From being heavy on the pumpkin flavor to leaning hard into the cream aspect, there's a symphony of flavors you can play around with. But this recipe brings everything into harmony for a drink you'll want to have on the daily.
Ingredients
- 1¼ ounces pumpkin spice liqueur
- 1 ounce vanilla vodka
- ¾ ounce Irish cream
- ¼ ounce allspice dram
- Ice
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Chill a martini glass or coupe.
- In a cocktail shaker, add ice, pumpkin spice liqueur, vanilla vodka, Irish cream, and allspice dram.
- Shake to chill.
- Strain into the chilled glass.
- Garnish with ground nutmeg, sprinkling on the mix and glass.
If you want a crystal clear pumpkin spice martini, skip the Irish cream. This will give you that glass-like effect while also amping up the pumpkin taste to an 11.
Related: 21 Pumpkin Cocktail Recipes to Enjoy Fall All Year Long
4 Variations and Substitutions to Try
Like any pumpkin spice drink, there's room to play around. Embrace the frenzied energy of fall with these exciting variations.
- Replace spiced rum for the allspice dram and vodka.
- Use vanilla schnapps for a creamier taste.
- A splash of hazelnut liqueur makes a rich addition.
- Add a splash of whiskey to make your martini a bit stronger.
Garnishes You'll Fall in Love With
Martinis speak volumes on their own, but an exciting garnish will take things up a notch.
- Add a graham cracker rim by first dipping the rim in honey then a saucer of finely crushed crumbs.
- Use a small amount of orange zest for an orangey hint.
- For a louder orange pop, add an orange peel twist.
- Speared candied pumpkin adds a festive look.
- Place a few pumpkin seeds on top for a classy finish.
Pumpkin Spice Latte, Who?
When those cool fall days come knocking on your door, a pumpkin spice martini is there waiting for you. With just the right hint of spices and that creamy pumpkin flavor, this cocktail will send you into an autumn paradise.
