Paul Kushner
The Pumpkin Spice Mudslide is a creamy, dessert-like cocktail that combines the richness of Baileys Irish Cream with the bold flavor of coffee vodka and the cozy taste of pumpkin. Half-and-half softens and balances the drink, while pumpkin purée and pumpkin spice bring seasonal flair. Caramel drizzle inside the glass adds both sweetness and presentation, making this cocktail as indulgent in appearance as it is in flavor. Garnished with a cinnamon stick or a dusting of spice, the Pumpkin Spice Mudslide is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as an after-dinner treat with festive character.
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Tasting Notes
The Pumpkin Spice Mudslide is creamy, rich, and layered with seasonal flavors. Coffee vodka brings a bold base with roasted notes, while pumpkin purée and pumpkin spice add warmth and depth. Baileys Irish Cream enhances the cocktail with smooth sweetness, blending seamlessly with half-and-half for a silky texture. Caramel sauce adds a dessert-like touch, tying together the pumpkin and coffee flavors with a sweet, buttery finish. Garnished with a cinnamon stick or a dusting of spice, this cocktail feels indulgent yet balanced, offering a festive drink that works as both a cocktail and a dessert in one.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare this cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to blend and chill the ingredients thoroughly. A bar jigger ensures precise measurements, while a strainer provides a clean, smooth pour into your serving glass. A spoon or squeeze bottle will help drizzle caramel sauce neatly inside the glass for presentation. The cocktail is best served in a rocks glass or coupe, both of which showcase the caramel drizzle beautifully. A bar spoon can also come in handy for gently adjusting the garnish. With just a few simple tools, you can create a polished and festive seasonal cocktail.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz coffee vodka
- 1 oz pumpkin purée
- 0.25 oz pumpkin spice
- 1.5 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz half-and-half cream
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Cinnamon stick and/or extra pumpkin spice for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the coffee vodka, pumpkin purée, pumpkin spice, Baileys Irish Cream, and half-and-half.
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and well blended.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on the inside of your cocktail glass, creating a decorative pattern.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.
- If desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or a light dusting of extra pumpkin spice for a festive touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Mudslide!
Pro Tips
- Use chilled glassware for a smoother, longer-lasting serve.
- Drizzle caramel in a spiral for a striking presentation.
- Fresh pumpkin purée adds more depth than canned pie filling.
- Shake firmly to fully integrate the pumpkin with the spirits.
- Swap half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a richer texture.
- Dust with nutmeg or cinnamon for extra aroma.
- Serve without ice in the glass for a cleaner, creamier finish.
When to Serve
The Pumpkin Spice Mudslide is ideal for fall and winter occasions, particularly when you want a cocktail that doubles as a dessert. It works perfectly for holiday parties, after-dinner drinks, or cozy evenings by the fire. Its blend of coffee, cream, pumpkin, and caramel makes it especially fitting for Thanksgiving or seasonal gatherings where pumpkin desserts are already part of the menu. Because it’s creamy and rich, it pairs well with lighter snacks or simply enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat. This cocktail brings comfort, warmth, and festive character in every sip.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Kahlúa Espresso Vodka
- Van Gogh Double Espresso Vodka
- Smirnoff Dark Roasted Espresso
- Baileys Original Irish Cream
- Carolans Irish Cream
Similar Cocktails
- Coconut Chocolate Pumpkin Martini
- Vegan Pumpkin Pie Mocktail
- Rum Spiked Pumpkin Pie Punch
- Pumpkin Orange Saffron Cocktail
- Pumpkin Gin Mule
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz coffee vodka
- 1 oz pumpkin purée
- 0.25 oz pumpkin spice
- 1.5 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz half-and-half cream
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Cinnamon stick and/or extra pumpkin spice for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the coffee vodka, pumpkin purée, pumpkin spice, Baileys Irish Cream, and half-and-half.
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and well blended.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on the inside of your cocktail glass, creating a decorative pattern.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.
- If desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or a light dusting of extra pumpkin spice for a festive touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Mudslide!
Notes
- For an even more decadent experience, consider rimming the glass with crushed graham crackers before drizzling with caramel sauce.
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, you can use a coffee liqueur in addition to or instead of the coffee vodka.
- Chilling the glass beforehand will help keep the cocktail cold and refreshing.
