Give a classic cocktail a fall seasonal twist with this pumpkin spice old fashioned. Bourbon pairs well with warm cinnamon, pumpkin, and a touch of orange for a drink that’s perfect by the fire, or even for the holidays! I love the cozy vibes and perfect fall flavors!
If I could embody a hug in a glass, this would probably be it. Warm spices, smooth bourbon, and a hint of citrus make the perfect combination.
A classic old fashioned is made from a combination of simple syrup, bitters, and usually rye or bourbon whiskey. In this case, I’m just swapping in a pumpkin spice syrup in place of the plain, for the ultimate fall twist.
Since I find commercial pumpkin spice syrups made for coffees are cloyingly sweet and artificial, I’m going to teach you how to make your own! It’s an easy recipe, and you can make a large batch for entertaining, or use extra to make some Pumpkin Pie Mimosas for brunch!
However, you can always use pre-made syrup if you prefer and just make the cocktail portion of this recipe.
Ingredients Needed
For the Pumpkin Spice Syrup:
1 cup water
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup pumpkin puree
1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp maple extract
For the Old Fashioned Cocktail:
1 ounce pumpkin spice syrup
2 ounces bourbon
2 dashes orange bitters
Large ice cube
Cinnamon stick and orange slice for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
You may also use dark brown sugar or granulated sugar if needed in the simple syrup
Make sure to use pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling
The maple extract can be swapped for vanilla if preferred
Instead of plain, feel free to use a cinnamon or maple flavored bourbon to accent the fall flavors!
Cinnamon bitters would be a great alternative option to the orange bitters
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Syrup
Make the pumpkin spice syrup by combining the water, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice in a microwave safe bowl
Cook on high for 3 minutes (until it bubbles and the sugar dissolves)
Stir in the extract, then strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
Cool and store in the refrigerator for up to a month
Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Step By Step Instructions
To make the pumpkin spice old fashioned, add the pumpkin spice syrup and bourbon to a rocks glass
Add the ice cube in, then top with the bitters
Stir gently to combine (use a cinnamon stick if you have it for extra flavor)
Garnish with a slice of orange and enjoy
What to Serve With a Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail
Check out my Air Fryer Apple Fries, Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies, or Chocolate Chess Pie Recipe for some perfect choices!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Make a Mocktail Version of the Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned?
Absolutely! To create a non-alcoholic mocktail version of the pumpkin spice old fashioned, simply omit the bourbon and bitters and replace it with a non-alcoholic base. You can use apple cider, ginger ale, or even a pumpkin spice-flavored soda.
Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding the simple syrup or maple syrup, and still garnish with the orange peel and cinnamon stick for that authentic flavor.
What’s the Appeal of Pumpkin Spice in Cocktails?
Pumpkin spice, a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, has a long history as a fall flavor in pies and baked goods. It gradually made its way into cocktails as mixologists sought to capture the flavor most associated with autumn in their creations.
The pumpkin spice old fashioned is a modern twist on the classic cocktail, showcasing how this spice mix can enhance the rich, warm flavors of whiskey or bourbon.
Are There Any Alternatives to Bourbon or Whiskey for This Cocktail?
Certainly, if you prefer a different base spirit, you can substitute bourbon or whiskey with dark rum, spiced rum, or an apple brandy.
Each alternative will provide a unique twist to the pumpkin spice old fashioned, offering a different flavor profile while still maintaining the warmth of the classic old fashioned.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level of the Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned to Suit My Taste?
Of course! The sweetness of your pumpkin spice old fashioned can be adjusted by varying the amount of simple syrup you add. Start with a smaller amount and taste the cocktail; if it’s not sweet enough for your preference, gradually add more.
You can always add maple syrup, honey, or agave as an alternative sweetener as well.
Can I Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned in Advance For a Party or Gathering?
Yes! Simply make a batch of the pumpkin spice simple syrup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. When you’re ready to serve, mix with the bourbon and bitters.
This eliminates all the advance prep steps, allowing you to create a cocktail in just a minute or two. It also prevents dilution, so your cocktail is fresh and tasting its best.
Can I Experiment With Different Garnishes For the Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned?
Absolutely! While the traditional garnishes are orange twists and cinnamon sticks, feel free to experiment. Try garnishing with a maraschino cherry, a star anise, or even whipped cream with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
Get creative and tailor the garnishes to your personal taste and the occasion. The possibilities are endless!
Recipe Pro Tips
You may also cook the simple syrup on the stovetop over low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved
For a weaker drink, add more syrup or dilute with some water. For a stronger drink, add more bourbon
Sphere ice is best for this, but if you don’t have that option, any large shape of ice cube will work. You want a larger cube so that it melts slower and doesn’t dilute your drink as fast
Storage Tips
The pumpkin spice simple syrup may be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 month
Assemble individual cocktails just before consuming to prevent dilution and deliver the best results (it only takes me 2-3 minutes to make one, so it’s very fast once the syrup portion is done)!
This pumpkin spice old fashioned cocktail puts a fun fall spin on a classic drink. The warm pumpkin and cinnamon flavors compliment the bourbon beautifully.
I think it’s best with homemade syrup, but of course you can skip the step and use store bought as well. However, I enjoy having more control over my ingredients and sweetness levels. Plus, you can use this base syrup in a lot of other cocktails, and it keeps for a long time!
This drink is perfect for any fall get together, and ideal for entertaining, like at Thanksgiving. After all, when seeing the rest of your family, you probably need a drink at the ready!
Make your pumpkin spice simple syrup in advance, and craft a tasty cocktail in just a couple minutes. Or, add it to some apple cider as a mocktail for the kiddos!
Easy Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned Cocktail
This easy pumpkin spice old fashioned features all the flavors of fall in a classic cocktail. Make homemade pumpkin spice syrup in just a few minutes to add amazing flavor.
Orange slice and cinnamon stick for garnish(optional)
Instructions
To Make the Pumpkin Spice Syrup
Combine the water, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice in a microwave safe bowl
1 Cup water, 1 Cup brown sugar, ½ Cup pumpkin puree, 1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice
Cook on high for 3 minutes (until it bubbles and the sugar dissolves)
Stir in the extract, then strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
1 Tsp maple extract
Cool in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (and up to a month)
To Make the Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned
Add the pumpkin spice syrup and bourbon to a rocks glass
1 Ounce pumpkin simple syrup, 2 Ounces bourbon
Add the ice cube in, then top with the bitters
Ice cubes, 2 Dashes orange bitters
Stir gently to combine (use a cinnamon stick if you have it for extra flavor)
Garnish with a slice of orange if desired, and enjoy
Orange slice and cinnamon stick for garnish
Notes
You may also use dark brown sugar or granulated sugar if needed in the simple syrup
Make sure to use pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling
The maple extract can be swapped for vanilla if preferred
Instead of plain, feel free to use a cinnamon or maple flavored bourbon to accent the fall flavors!
Cinnamon bitters would be a great alternative option to the orange bitters
You may also cook the simple syrup on the stovetop over low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved
For a weaker drink, add more syrup or dilute with some water. For a stronger drink, add more bourbon. This recipe easily doubles as well if you’d like to make it a double!
Sphere ice is best for this, but if you don’t have that option, any large shape of ice cube will work. You want a larger cube so that it melts slower and doesn’t dilute your drink as fast
The pumpkin spice simple syrup may be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 month
Assemble individual cocktails just before consuming to prevent dilution and deliver the best results
Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
