Pumpkin Pie Martini Recipe

Have you ever sipped on autumn in a glass? Let me introduce you to my latest obsession—a Pumpkin Pie Martini that tastes like everything I love about fall wrapped into one dreamy cocktail. 🍁🍸

I enjoy making cocktails that capture the warmth and spirit of each season, and the Pumpkin Pie Martini does just that. With the smooth, creamy notes of vanilla vodka, pumpkin liqueur, and half and half, it feels like sipping on autumn itself.

Rimming the glass with crushed graham crackers adds a delightful texture, while a touch of maple syrup enhances the sweetness without making it cloying. I like how the drizzle of pumpkin pie spice adds an aromatic finish, making each sip feel indulgent yet familiar.

This cocktail is a perfect way to celebrate the cozy vibes of fall.

Ingredients

• Vanilla Vodka: Smooth, sweet vanilla notes enhance the cocktail’s richness.
• Pumpkin Liqueur: Adds a warm, spiced pumpkin flavor with a hint of sweetness.
• Kahlúa: Delivers coffee and chocolate undertones, contributing depth and complexity.
• Half and Half: Creamy texture balances out sweetness and creates silky smoothness.
• Maple Syrup: Natural sweetness with earthy, caramelized undertones; a seasonal touch.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Spices up the drink with cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove aromas.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1.5 oz vanilla vodka
• 1 oz pumpkin liqueur
• 0.5 oz Kahlúa
• 1 oz half and half
• 0.5 oz maple syrup
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, for garnish
• Crushed graham crackers, for rimming the glass
• Cinnamon stick, for garnish (optional)

How to Make this

1. Moisten the rim of a martini glass with maple syrup, then dip it in crushed graham crackers to coat the rim.

2. Halfway full of ice cubes, fill the cocktail shaker.

3. Pour the vanilla vodka, pumpkin liqueur, Kahlúa, and half and half into the shaker.

4. Add the sweet maple syrup to the shaker.

5. Ensure the lid on the shaker is secure and shake it with a lot of energy for about 15-20 seconds until it is very cold and the contents are well mixed.

6. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass, leaving a little room at the top.

7. Dust the drink with pumpkin pie spice as a final flourish.

8. For an added touch, include a cinnamon stick in the glass as an optional garnish.

9. To enjoy a delightful Pumpkin Pie Martini, serve it up immediately.

10. Taste and enjoy the flavors that bring to mind a traditional pumpkin pie but with an incredible twist.

Equipment Needed

1. Martini glass
2. Small plate or shallow dish (for maple syrup and graham cracker crumbs)
3. Cocktail shaker
4. Measuring jigger or small measuring cup
5. Strainer
6. Ice cubes
7. Spoon or small brush (for applying maple syrup to the rim)
8. Optional: small sieve for dusting pumpkin pie spice

FAQ

• Can I use any type of vodka?Regular vodka can be substituted for vanilla vodka if you can’t find it. Even with this simple replacement, the drink remains tasty.
• Is there a non-dairy alternative for half and half?Certainly, substitutes can be used such as coconut milk or almond milk creamer if one desires a non-dairy option.
• Where can I find pumpkin liqueur?A well-stocked liquor store, especially in the fall, is a likely place to find pumpkin liqueur. You can also check online to see who has it.
• What is the best way to rim the glass?First, dip the glass’s rim into maple syrup; next, dip it into crushed graham crackers. This method ensures the best adherence of the two to the glass.
• Can I make this recipe without alcohol for a mocktail version?Indeed, you can leave out the vodka and Kahlúa and use pumpkin spice syrup in place of pumpkin liqueur to create a mocktail.
• Can I prepare this drink in advance?The drink is best when freshly prepared; however, the liquid ingredients can be mixed ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few hours. Just remember to rim the glass and add the garnishes just before serving.

Pumpkin Pie Martini Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Vanilla vodka: Use plain vodka instead and splash in some vanilla extract.
Pumpkin liqueur: Combine Bailey’s Irish Cream and puree of pumpkin. Mix. Enjoy.
Kahlúa: Use Tia Maria or some other coffee-flavored liqueur in its place.
If you want a dairy-free option, you can replace half and half with coconut milk or almond milk.
Maple syrup: Substitute honey or agave syrup for this sweetener.

Pro Tips

1. Chill the Glass Before preparing the cocktail, chill the martini glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the drink colder for longer once served.

2. Homemade Pumpkin Liqueur If you can’t find pumpkin liqueur, you can make a quick version by combining pumpkin puree with a bit of simple syrup and cinnamon, then mixing it with your choice of spirit.

3. Consistent Shaking Ensure that you shake the cocktail shaker vigorously. This not only mixes the ingredients well but also aerates the drink, creating a smooth and frothy finish.

4. Decorative Rimming For an enhanced presentation, crush the graham crackers finely and combine with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg before rimming the glass. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

5. Flavor Infusion Soak the cinnamon stick in a small amount of vanilla vodka for a few minutes before using it as a garnish. This will infuse the drink with a subtle cinnamon aroma every time you take a sip.