Pumpkin Pie Punch is a festive, crowd-pleasing cocktail that combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie with the crisp refreshment of apple cider. Perfect for parties and holiday gatherings, this big-batch drink is smooth, spiced, and lightly creamy with the addition of cream soda. Everclear provides the kick, while pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice give it a comforting autumn richness. Finished with whipped cream on top, this punch feels like dessert in a glass easy to make, easy to serve, and guaranteed to be the centerpiece of any fall celebration.
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Tasting Notes
Pumpkin Pie Punch delivers the flavors of fall in a large-batch cocktail that’s both festive and comforting. Apple cider sets the foundation with crisp sweetness, while pumpkin puree adds body and earthy richness. Cream soda lightens the drink with smooth vanilla notes, and pumpkin pie spice ties everything together with warmth and aromatics. Everclear adds strength without altering the flavor too heavily, allowing the seasonal ingredients to shine. Served cold and topped with whipped cream, it’s sweet, spiced, and slightly creamy making each glass reminiscent of pumpkin pie in liquid form.
Equipment and Glassware
This Pumpkin Pie Punch is for entertaining and requires minimal equipment. A large pitcher or punch bowl is essential for mixing and serving. A whisk helps blend the pumpkin puree smoothly into the cider, and a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth can be used if you want a silkier texture. A long spoon is useful for stirring in the cream soda, spice, and spirits. For serving, small cups, mason jars, or punch glasses work well, especially when topped with whipped cream. A sharp knife will also come in handy for slicing apples if you choose to add them as garnish.
Ingredients
- 64 oz apple cider
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 12 oz cream soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 8 oz Everclear
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, whisk together the cider and pumpkin until fully blended.
- For an extra smooth texture, you can strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine wire mesh strainer, though it’s not essential.
- Stir in the cream soda, pumpkin pie spice, and Everclear.
- Add apple slices to the pitcher, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve cold, topped with whipped cream or Cool Whip. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use freshly pressed apple cider for a richer flavor.
- Homemade pumpkin puree creates better texture and taste.
- Strain the base if you prefer a smoother, less pulpy punch.
- Chill all ingredients beforehand to keep the punch cold longer.
- Add apple slices and even cinnamon sticks for presentation.
- Whipped cream topping enhances the pie-like quality of the drink.
- For a lighter version, replace Everclear with spiced rum or bourbon.
When to Serve
Pumpkin Pie Punch is perfect for fall parties, holiday gatherings, or any event where you want a large-batch cocktail that feels seasonal. Its pie-like flavors make it an excellent choice for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dinners, or Friendsgiving celebrations. Since it’s served cold and topped with whipped cream, it doubles as both a cocktail and a dessert-inspired treat. Its rich yet refreshing profile ensures it appeals to a wide range of guests, from casual drinkers to cocktail enthusiasts. Easy to prepare in advance, it’s an ideal centerpiece punch for entertaining during the autumn and winter months.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Everclear
- Bacardi 151 (for a rum variation)
- Wild Turkey 101 (for a whiskey variation)
- Captain Morgan (for a spiced rum variation)
- Absolut Vodka (if substituting for lighter strength)
Similar Cocktails
- Sparkling Spiced Pumpkin Punch
- Autumn Spiced Rum Punch
- Harvest Punch
- Thanksgiving Party Punch
- Spiced Apple Rum Punch
Equipment
Ingredients
- 64 oz apple cider
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 12 oz cream soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 8 oz Everclear
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, whisk together the cider and pumpkin until fully blended.
- For an extra smooth texture, you can strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine wire mesh strainer, though it’s not essential.
- Stir in the cream soda, pumpkin pie spice, and Everclear.
- Add apple slices to the pitcher, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve cold, topped with whipped cream or Cool Whip. Enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tips
- For less strength, reduce the Everclear and add more apple cider.
- Use freshly whipped cream for a richer finish.
- Chill all ingredients beforehand so the punch stays cold longer.