Paul Kushner
The Bourbon Pumpkin Latte is a frosty, fall-inspired cocktail that combines the bold kick of bourbon with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice. Frozen almond milk cubes create a creamy base without watering down the drink, while espresso adds depth and balance. Maple syrup and pumpkin purée bring sweetness and richness, enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with almond milk foam or whipped cream, this cocktail is both refreshing and indulgent a perfect blend of coffeehouse comfort and boozy sophistication. Ideal for autumn afternoons, holiday gatherings, or dessert-style cocktails, it’s a festive way to enjoy pumpkin season.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Bourbon Pumpkin Latte is creamy, spiced, and warming with a frosty texture that makes it both comforting and refreshing. Bourbon brings depth with notes of vanilla and oak, while espresso adds roasted richness that balances the sweetness. Maple syrup contributes a natural caramel-like sweetness, and pumpkin purée adds smooth body with seasonal character. Pumpkin spice enhances the drink with warm, aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Frozen almond milk cubes provide a silky base, blending everything into a chilled, latte-style cocktail. Finished with almond milk foam or whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice, it’s festive and flavorful.
Equipment and Glassware
This Bourbon Pumpkin Latte requires a few kitchen tools in addition to bar basics. An ice cube tray is essential for preparing the almond milk cubes ahead of time. A blender is the key tool for creating the smooth, creamy consistency of the latte. A jigger ensures accurate measurement of bourbon, espresso, and syrups, while a spoon is helpful for layering garnishes. A coffee machine or espresso maker is necessary to brew the espresso shot. For serving, use a tall glass or coffee-style mug, which highlights the frothy, latte-inspired presentation and allows room for garnish.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces unsweetened almond milk frozen into ice cubes
- 1.5 ounces bourbon
- 1 shots espresso
- 1 ounces maple syrup
- 1/2 ounce pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- Almond milk foam or whipped cream for garnish
- Cinnamon powder or grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by pouring the unsweetened almond milk into an ice cube tray and freezing it until solid.
- Once the almond milk cubes are frozen, add them to a blender along with the bourbon, espresso shots, maple syrup, canned pumpkin, and pumpkin spice.
- Blend on the highest setting until the mixture is smooth and fully blended, with a creamy, frosty consistency.
- Pour the blended mixture into glasses.
- Top with almond milk foam or plain whipped cream for an extra layer of richness.
- Garnish with a grated nutmeg or pinch of cinnamon to enhance the pumpkin spice flavors.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this frosty fall treat.
Pro Tips
- Prepare almond milk cubes in advance for convenience.
- Use strong, freshly brewed espresso for a bold coffee flavor.
- Opt for pure pumpkin purée rather than pumpkin pie filling for control of sweetness.
- Pure maple syrup provides richer flavor than pancake syrups.
- Adjust the amount of pumpkin spice to your preference.
- Garnish with whole spices (like a cinnamon stick) for extra aroma.
- Serve in chilled glasses for a milkshake-like feel, or mugs for a cozy presentation.
When to Serve
The Bourbon Pumpkin Latte is perfect for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations, especially during Halloween or Thanksgiving. Its creamy texture and spiced profile make it an excellent choice for after-dinner drinks or festive weekend brunches. The combination of bourbon and espresso makes it both energizing and comforting, bridging the gap between a cocktail and a dessert. This drink also works well at cozy evenings at home, offering a seasonal twist on coffee-inspired cocktails. With its layered flavor and seasonal character, it’s a standout option whenever pumpkin spice is in season.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, or Woodford Reserve for balanced flavor.
- Espresso: Use freshly pulled espresso from a quality machine, or substitute with a strong cold brew concentrate.
- Maple Syrup: Runamok or Crown Maple for natural sweetness.
- Pumpkin Purée: Libby’s 100% Pumpkin for consistent results.
- Pumpkin Spice: Homemade blends or trusted brands like McCormick.
- Milk Alternatives: Use unsweetened almond milk, or substitute with oat milk for extra creaminess.
Similar Cocktails
- Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour
- Maple-Bourbon Smash
- Maple Apple Toddy
- Cider and Maple Old Fashioned
- Juicy Apple Bourbon Fall Cocktail
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 ounces unsweetened almond milk frozen into ice cubes
- 1.5 ounces bourbon
- 1 shots espresso
- 1 ounces maple syrup
- 1/2 ounce pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- Almond milk foam or whipped cream for garnish
- Cinnamon powder or grated nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by pouring the unsweetened almond milk into an ice cube tray and freezing it until solid.
- Once the almond milk cubes are frozen, add them to a blender along with the bourbon, espresso shots, maple syrup, canned pumpkin, and pumpkin spice.
- Blend on the highest setting until the mixture is smooth and fully blended, with a creamy, frosty consistency.
- Pour the blended mixture into glasses.
- Top with almond milk foam or plain whipped cream for an extra layer of richness.
- Garnish with a grated nutmeg or pinch of cinnamon to enhance the pumpkin spice flavors.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this frosty fall treat.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor intensity.
- Adjust maple syrup to your preferred sweetness.
- Swap almond milk with oat milk or dairy milk if desired.
