Paul Kushner
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a seasonal twist on the classic cocktail, bringing the cozy flavors of autumn into a creamy, coffee-forward drink. The mix of vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream is enriched with pumpkin puree, pumpkin syrup, and warm pumpkin pie spice. Topped with optional garnishes like whipped cream or crushed graham crackers, this drink feels festive yet comforting. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, fall parties, or simply enjoying by the fire on a cool evening. A dessert-like cocktail, it delivers smooth richness with a touch of seasonal flair.
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Tasting Notes
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a creamy cocktail that blends coffee, cream, and seasonal spices into one balanced drink. Vodka and coffee liqueur give the base a smooth, bold flavor, while pumpkin puree brings in earthiness that pairs naturally with warming spice. Heavy cream rounds everything out with a lush texture, creating a drink that feels both indulgent and comforting. The pumpkin pie spice brightens the cocktail with warm aromatic notes, and optional garnishes like whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, or cinnamon sugar enhance both flavor and presentation. It’s a rich, dessert-like drink with an unmistakable fall character.
Equipment and Glassware
Making this Pumpkin Spice White Russian requires a few simple tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for blending the vodka, coffee liqueur, cream, pumpkin puree, syrup, and spices until smooth and chilled. A strainer helps pour cleanly into the serving glass. A jigger ensures measurements are accurate, keeping the cocktail balanced. For serving, a rocks glass works perfectly, offering enough space for ice and optional toppings. A small whisk or spoon can also help mix pumpkin puree evenly if needed. If garnishing, have a grater for fresh spice or a shallow dish for dipping rims into cinnamon sugar. The setup is easy yet effective.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Kahlúa or coffee liqueur
- 3 oz heavy cream
- 1 ½ oz Pumpkin puree
- Pumpkin pie spice
- ½ oz pumpkin syrup or simple syrup to taste
- Whipped cream optional
- Cinnamon stick optional
- Crushed graham crackers optional
- Cinnamon sugar optional
Instructions
- In a large cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour vodka, Kahlúa, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and syrup. Shake lightly until combined and cold.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour the cocktail into the glass.
- If desired, garnish with whipped cream, cinnamon sugar, a cinnamon stick, or sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top.
Pro Tips
- Use chilled heavy cream for a smoother shake.
- Strain through a fine mesh if you want a silkier texture.
- Adjust sweetness with more or less pumpkin syrup.
- Try a flavored vodka, such as vanilla, for added depth.
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for a more aromatic garnish.
- Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the cocktail colder.
- For extra flair, rim the glass with crushed graham crackers.
When to Serve
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is an ideal cocktail for fall and winter gatherings, especially when paired with desserts or served as an after-dinner drink. Its richness makes it perfect for cozy evenings by the fire, festive holiday parties, or small seasonal celebrations. With its creamy texture and spiced profile, it works especially well as a signature cocktail during Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving events. It can also be enjoyed as a late-night treat, offering both coffee and pumpkin flavors in one glass. This drink is versatile enough for casual nights in or festive entertaining.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Vodka: Tito’s Handmade, Absolut, or Grey Goose for smoothness.
- Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa, Tia Maria, or Mr. Black for deeper coffee flavor.
- Pumpkin Syrup: Monin or Torani for reliable seasonal sweetness.
- Heavy Cream: Any fresh dairy brand, though organic options offer richer flavor.
- Pumpkin Puree: Libby’s canned pumpkin for consistency, or homemade puree for freshness.
- Spices: McCormick or Simply Organic pumpkin pie spice blends work well.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh cinnamon sticks, homemade whipped cream, or finely crushed graham crackers.
Similar Cocktails
- Chai White Russian
- Peanut Butter White Russian
- Chocolate White Russian
- RumChata White Russian
- Baileys White Russian
Ingredients
- 1 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Kahlúa or coffee liqueur
- 3 oz heavy cream
- 1 ½ oz Pumpkin puree
- Pumpkin pie spice
- ½ oz pumpkin syrup or simple syrup to taste
- Whipped cream optional
- Cinnamon stick optional
- Crushed graham crackers optional
- Cinnamon sugar optional
Instructions
- In a large cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour vodka, Kahlúa, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and syrup. Shake lightly until combined and cold.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour the cocktail into the glass.
- If desired, garnish with whipped cream, cinnamon sugar, a cinnamon stick, or sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Adjust the pumpkin puree and syrup to your sweetness preference.
- Use homemade pumpkin syrup for a fresher flavor boost.
- Lightly rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for added spice.
