Fall flavors hit differently, don’t they? That first sip of something warm and spiced when the air cools down feels like a seasonal reset. Around here, one ingredient always seems to steal the show: Pumpkin Spice Latte syrup.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: isn’t that syrup just for coffee? But here’s the thing—I love taking an ingredient I already have on hand and using it across different meals and courses. A well-crafted syrup like this is more than just something to sweeten your latte. It’s a flavor-builder, a secret weapon that instantly elevates everything it touches.
This year, I decided to put that theory to the test. Could I take my homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte syrup and spin it into a few cocktails? Turns out, not only is it possible—it’s downright delicious. From a smooth espresso martini to a sparkling apple cider spritz, a cozy old fashioned, and even a refreshing mocktail fizz, these drinks bring fall flavors into your glass in a way that feels both comforting and fresh.
And out of all four? The one that completely surprised me was the espresso martini. At first, I thought, “Pumpkin spice in an espresso martini? That could be too much.” But once I tasted it, I was hooked. It makes perfect sense—essentially, it’s just a boozy pumpkin spice coffee. The coffee comes forward first, bold and rich, and then the pumpkin spice slides in like it’s always belonged there. It elevates the drink without stealing the spotlight. You’ve really got to try that one.
Let’s get into it.
Why Pumpkin Spice Syrup Works in Cocktails
Pumpkin spice has been a fall favorite for years, but it often gets pigeonholed into lattes and baked goods. What makes this syrup so special—and so versatile—is the balance of warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and allspice) with just enough sweetness to tie everything together.
When added to cocktails, it works almost like a flavored simple syrup, but with more depth. It gives drinks a subtle autumn twist without overpowering them. Plus, because it’s liquid and mixes easily, it integrates seamlessly with spirits, coffee, cider, and sparkling wine.
This means you can use the same jar of syrup for your morning latte, your afternoon baking project, and your evening happy hour. Talk about stretching an ingredient.
Cocktail #1: Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
Why it works: If you’re already a fan of espresso martinis, this version will blow you away. The vodka and coffee liqueur bring the backbone, the espresso gives that signature punch, and the pumpkin spice syrup softens the edges with warming notes of cinnamon and nutmeg.
The balance is key here: the syrup enhances the drink but doesn’t make it taste like dessert. It’s still bold and sophisticated—just with a seasonal upgrade.
Tasting notes: First sip: coffee. Strong, rich, slightly bitter. Then the pumpkin spice sweeps in like a cozy blanket, rounding out the bitterness and adding warmth. It’s smooth, layered, and festive.
When to serve it: Fall dinner parties, Thanksgiving dessert pairings, or honestly, anytime you want to impress a guest.
Cocktail #2: Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider Prosecco Spritz
Why it works: Apple cider and Prosecco already feel like a fall match made in heaven, and when you add pumpkin spice syrup, you take it up a notch. The syrup adds complexity that balances the brightness of the sparkling wine and the sweetness of the cider.
Tasting notes: Crisp bubbles, a touch of apple, and a gentle wave of pumpkin spice in the background. It’s light, refreshing, and dangerously easy to sip.
When to serve it: Brunch, holiday toasts, or those evenings when you want something festive but not too heavy.
Cocktail #3: Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned
Why it works: An old fashioned is all about balance—whiskey, sugar, bitters, and citrus peel. Swapping the sugar cube for pumpkin spice syrup is one of those small tweaks that completely changes the character of the drink without losing its soul.
Tasting notes: You still get that rich, boozy whiskey profile, but with a whisper of autumn spices that makes the whole thing feel more seasonal. The orange peel twist ties it together beautifully.
When to serve it: After dinner, by the fire, or when you want a drink that feels like fall sophistication in a glass.
Cocktail #4: Pumpkin Spice Apple Fizz (Mocktail)
Why it works: Not every fall drink has to be boozy. This mocktail combines apple cider, sparkling water, and PSL syrup for a crisp, refreshing option that everyone can enjoy.
Tasting notes: Light bubbles, gentle apple flavor, and just enough spice to keep it interesting. It’s like autumn’s answer to a soda.
When to serve it: Afternoon gatherings, kid-friendly parties, or anytime you want a non-alcoholic option that still feels festive.
Tips for Making These Cocktails
- Batch the syrup in advance. Make a big jar of PSL syrup and keep it in the fridge—it’ll last up to two weeks.
- Chill your espresso. For the martini, use cooled espresso. Hot coffee will melt your ice too quickly and water down the drink.
- Use clear ice if you can. Large, clear ice cubes look great in the old fashioned and melt more slowly. (Here’s the ice mold I use).
- Choose your whiskey wisely. Bourbon gives a sweeter profile, rye brings more spice. Both work beautifully with pumpkin spice.
- Mocktail versatility. The apple fizz is just a template. Try sparkling cranberry juice, ginger beer, or even tonic water for different twists.
Pairing Suggestions
- The espresso martini is perfect with chocolate desserts—think flourless chocolate cake or dark chocolate truffles.
- The Prosecco spritz pairs beautifully with cheese boards, especially with sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
- The old fashioned complements savory dishes like roast chicken or steak.
- The mocktail fizz makes a great partner for snacks—soft pretzels, popcorn, or spiced nuts.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pumpkin spice syrup?
Yes! Homemade is best (and usually has more flavor depth), but store-bought works in a pinch. Just adjust the amount to taste since some brands are sweeter.
Q: What if I don’t drink coffee—can I still make the martini?
You can swap the espresso for cold brew concentrate. It’s smoother and less bitter, but still gives that coffee kick.
Q: Can these be made in big batches?
Absolutely. For parties, pre-mix the base (minus sparkling ingredients like Prosecco or soda), then top off glasses just before serving.
Q: How do I make it less sweet?
Use a little less syrup and add an extra dash of bitters in the old fashioned, or a touch more espresso in the martini.
Q: Can kids have the mocktail version?
Yes, the apple fizz is kid-friendly. Just skip the garnish if you’re worried about cinnamon sticks being chewed.
Final Thoughts
What I love most about these recipes is that they all start with one simple ingredient: Pumpkin Spice Latte syrup. By stretching that one jar of syrup across different drinks, you get completely unique cocktails (and a mocktail) that feel festive and creative without being complicated.
The espresso martini might just be my favorite surprise this season—it’s bold, smooth, and subtly spiced in a way that makes you wonder why we weren’t doing this all along. But the beauty is that each recipe has its own personality, ready to fit whatever moment you’re celebrating.
So make yourself a batch of PSL syrup, keep it in the fridge, and let it inspire you. Whether you’re clinking glasses with friends, cozying up at home, or serving family-friendly fizz, you’ll be sipping fall in style.
Cheers to cozy cocktails,
—Rufus
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4 Pumpkin Spice Latte Cocktails to Try This Fall
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Rocks glass
- Martini glass
- Stirring spoon
- Jigger or measuring tool
Ingredients
Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz Pumpkin Spice Latte syrup
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso cooled
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- Ice
- Garnish: pumpkin spice or coffee beans
Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider Prosecco Spritz
- 2 oz Pumpkin Spice Latte syrup
- 2 oz apple cider
- 3 oz Prosecco
- Garnish: apple slice or cinnamon stick
Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- ½ oz Pumpkin Spice Latte syrup
- 2 –3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel twist
- Optional: cinnamon stick
Pumpkin Spice Apple Fizz (Mocktail)
- 2 oz Pumpkin Spice Latte syrup
- 2 oz apple cider or apple juice
- 3 oz sparkling water
- Garnish: cinnamon stick or apple slice
Instructions
Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
- Add vodka, PSL syrup, espresso, coffee liqueur, and ice to shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
- Strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin spice or a few coffee beans.
Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider Prosecco Spritz
- Add syrup and apple cider to glass.
- Top with Prosecco, stir gently.
- Garnish and serve.
Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned
- Stir bourbon, PSL syrup, and bitters with ice in a rocks glass.
- Express orange peel over drink, drop into glass.
- Garnish with cinnamon stick if desired.
Pumpkin Spice Apple Fizz (Mocktail)
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add PSL syrup and apple cider.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Stir gently, garnish, and serve.
Video
Notes
Make a big batch of syrup and store it in mason jars for up to 2 weeks.
For the martini, chill your espresso before shaking to avoid melting the ice too quickly.
The old fashioned works beautifully with rye whiskey if you want a spicier profile.
Rufus Dewanou says
The Colorful Pantry