The Cutwater Espresso Martini gets a cozy seasonal twist with this fall-inspired version that’s full of warmth and flavor. The smooth, ready-to-pour espresso martini creates a rich coffee base that pairs perfectly with the comforting taste of pumpkin. A layer of homemade pumpkin whipped cream adds a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, while a sprinkle of nutmeg gives it that classic autumn touch. This cocktail is simple to make yet feels special, making it perfect for cool evenings, festive gatherings, or as an after-dinner treat. It’s a delicious mix of convenience, comfort, and seasonal charm.
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Tasting Notes
The Cutwater Espresso Martini with Pumpkin Whipped Cream brings together bold coffee flavor and cozy fall sweetness in one glass. The ready-to-serve espresso martini offers rich notes of roasted coffee and smooth spirits, while the pumpkin whipped cream adds creamy warmth and a gentle sweetness from maple syrup and vanilla. Pumpkin pie spice lends subtle hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove that perfectly complement the drink’s coffee base. Finished with a dusting of fresh nutmeg, the result is a cocktail that feels comforting and celebratory—ideal for chilly evenings, festive gatherings, or relaxed autumn nights at home.
Equipment and Glassware
Making this version of the Cutwater Espresso Martini requires minimal equipment but benefits from thoughtful presentation. A frozen coupe glass helps keep the drink chilled and smooth from start to finish. For the pumpkin whipped cream, an iSi whipper creates light, airy texture and even distribution. Alternatively, a hand mixer or whisk can be used for a more rustic consistency. A small grater or microplane is useful for freshly grating nutmeg, adding both aroma and finishing touch. Simple tools, combined with a chilled glass and quality ingredients, make this cocktail feel bar-worthy with very little effort.
Ingredients
Cocktail
- 1 can Cutwater Espresso Martini
- Pumpkin whipped cream (recipe below)
- Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Pumpkin Whipped Cream
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 2 tbsp pumpkin purée (smooth, canned works fine)
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar (to taste)
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (or mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the whipped cream: Combine heavy cream, pumpkin purée, maple syrup (or sugar), pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract in an iSi whipper. Charge with one N₂O cartridge and shake well. If using a mixer, beat until soft peaks form. Chill until ready to use.
- Prepare the cocktail: Pour one can of Cutwater Espresso Martini into a frozen coupe glass.
- Top and garnish: Add a generous layer of pumpkin whipped cream and dust lightly with freshly grated nutmeg.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Pro Tips
- Chill the coupe glass well to maintain the martini’s smooth texture.
- Use cold heavy cream to achieve ideal whipped cream consistency.
- Adjust maple syrup or sugar to match your sweetness preference.
- Add a pinch more pumpkin spice if you want stronger seasonal flavor.
- Grate nutmeg fresh it adds far more aroma than pre-ground.
- If you don’t have an iSi whipper, whisking by hand works perfectly.
- Store leftover pumpkin whipped cream in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- For added texture, drizzle a small amount of maple syrup over the top before serving.
When to Serve
This Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini is ideal for cozy fall evenings, dinner parties, or holiday celebrations. It fits perfectly as an after-dinner cocktail, offering both dessert-like sweetness and a touch of caffeine to keep the night going. It’s also a great addition to Thanksgiving menus or Friendsgiving gatherings, adding a festive yet simple-to-prepare drink option. The combination of coffee, pumpkin, and spice creates a comforting flavor that feels seasonal without being heavy. Serve it whenever you want a cocktail that blends autumn warmth with modern espresso flair it’s as fitting for sweater weather as it is for celebrations.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Espresso Martini: Cutwater Spirits for the ready-to-serve blend of vodka and espresso.
- Pumpkin Purée: Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin for reliable consistency.
- Maple Syrup: Use Grade A Dark or brands like Crown Maple for rich sweetness.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: McCormick or Penzeys for balanced flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Nielsen-Massey for quality aroma and depth.
- Nutmeg: Whole nutmeg grated fresh for best results.
Similar Cocktails
- S’mores Espresso Martini
- Pumpkin Pie Martini
- Bourbon Pumpkin Latte
- Spiked Pumpkin Horchata
- Pumpkin Spice Mudslide
Equipment
- iSi whipper (or handheld mixer)
Ingredients
Cocktail:
- 1 can Cutwater Espresso Martini
- Pumpkin whipped cream recipe below
- Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Pumpkin Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 2 tbsp pumpkin purée smooth, canned works fine
- 1 –2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar to taste
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice or mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Make the whipped cream:
- Combine heavy cream, pumpkin purée, maple syrup (or sugar), pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract in an iSi whipper. Charge with one N₂O cartridge and shake well. If using a mixer, beat until soft peaks form. Chill until ready to use.
Prepare the cocktail:
- Pour one can of Cutwater Espresso Martini into a frozen coupe glass.
Top and garnish:
- Add a generous layer of pumpkin whipped cream and dust lightly with freshly grated nutmeg.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Keep your whipped cream cold it will hold its texture and complement the martini’s temperature.
- For a lighter flavor, substitute maple syrup with honey.
- Use freshly grated nutmeg rather than pre-ground for a more aromatic finish.