Paul Kushner
The Pumpkin Margarita is a fall-inspired twist on the classic Mexican cocktail, combining tequila’s bold character with the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spice. Fresh lime juice and Cointreau add brightness, while maple syrup rounds out the sweetness with a subtle earthy depth. Pumpkin purée lends body and seasonal flair, making this cocktail both festive and refreshing. Rimmed with salt and spice, it offers a balanced sip that’s tangy, smooth, and warmly spiced. Garnished with lime or a dusting of pumpkin pie spice, this margarita is perfect for autumn gatherings, seasonal celebrations, or simply enjoying a fresh spin on tradition.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Pumpkin Margarita reimagines a classic with seasonal depth. Tequila gives the drink its strong, earthy base, while Cointreau or triple sec adds bright orange notes that blend smoothly with lime juice. Pumpkin puree enriches the cocktail with subtle sweetness and body, while maple syrup softens the tartness with a gentle, caramel-like sweetness. A dash of pumpkin pie spice enhances the fall character, adding warmth without overpowering the citrus. With a salted spiced rim and a garnish of lime or pumpkin spice, the drink delivers a balance of sweet, tart, earthy, and spiced flavors in every sip.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare this Pumpkin Margarita, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to combine and chill the ingredients thoroughly. A bar jigger ensures precise measurements, while a strainer allows for a smooth pour into the serving glass. If you’re salting the rim, a shallow dish and a lime wedge will help apply the rim coating. A bar spoon is useful for stirring the garnish into place if sprinkling pumpkin spice on top. This cocktail is best served in a traditional margarita glass or a short rocks glass, both of which provide enough space for garnish and presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz of tequila
- 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
- 1 oz of pumpkin puree
- 2 oz of lime juice
- 1/2 oz of maple syrup
- A dash of pumpkin pie spice
- Salt and spice for the rim (optional)
Instructions
- Start by salting the rim of your glass if you like that extra kick.
- In a shaker, combine the tequila, triple sec, pumpkin puree, lime juice, maple syrup, and pumpkin spice.
- Add ice to fill the shaker halfway, then shake it up until everything’s mixed well and chilled.
- Strain the mix into your prepared glass.
- Add a little lime wheel or a sprinkle of pumpkin spice on top for garnish.
Pro Tips
- Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling, for best balance.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice makes the drink brighter and fresher.
- Adjust maple syrup to taste if you prefer more or less sweetness.
- A cinnamon-salt rim offers a spiced twist on the classic salted rim.
- Shake vigorously to ensure the pumpkin puree integrates smoothly.
- Try reposado tequila for a slightly richer flavor than blanco.
- Chill your glass before pouring to keep the drink colder longer.
When to Serve
The Pumpkin Margarita is perfect for autumn gatherings, adding a seasonal twist to a classic cocktail that guests already know and love. It fits beautifully at Halloween parties, Thanksgiving celebrations, or fall-themed dinners where pumpkin desserts are on the menu. Because it combines both citrus brightness and cozy spice, it works equally well as a pre-dinner drink or alongside heavier seasonal dishes. Its familiar structure makes it approachable for those who enjoy margaritas, while the pumpkin and spice elements make it feel festive and timely. It’s an easy yet impressive choice for seasonal entertaining.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Patrón Silver
- Espolòn Blanco
- Don Julio Blanco
- Casamigos Blanco
- Herradura Reposado
Similar Cocktails
- Maple Margarita
- Hot Honey Peach Margarita
- Apple Cinnamon Margarita
- Kiwi Cilantro Margarita
- Mountain Dew Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
- 1 oz pumpkin puree
- 2 oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz maple syrup
- Pinch of pumpkin pie spice
- Cinnamon salt/sugar for rimming
- Orange slice and cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions
- Rim the glass: Start by rimming a cocktail glass with cinnamon sugar. To do this, mix cinnamon and sugar on a small plate. Wet the rim of the glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, Cointreau, pumpkin puree, fresh lime juice, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Add ice to the shaker and shake well.
- Strain the cocktail into the rimmed glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use 100% pure pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling) for best results.
- A reposado tequila works especially well, adding depth and subtle oak notes.
- For a smoky variation, swap tequila for mezcal.
