Description
The Spicy Bourbon Pumpkin Smash is a delightful autumn-inspired cocktail featuring a homemade spiced pumpkin syrup combined with bourbon, fresh orange juice, and a hint of orange bitters. Topped optionally with ginger beer, this drink offers a cozy mix of warm spices and refreshing citrus notes, perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Spiced Pumpkin Syrup
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sea salt, a pinch
Pumpkin Smash Cocktail
- 1-2 ounces (2-4 tablespoons) spiced pumpkin syrup (from above)
- 2 ounces (1/4 cup) bourbon or whiskey
- 1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) orange or clementine juice
- 1-2 dashes orange bitters
- Ginger beer, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Make the spiced pumpkin syrup: In a sauce pot, combine maple syrup, water, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Bring the mixture to a boil and allow it to cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool. This syrup yields enough for about 6 drinks.
- Prepare the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, add 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled spiced pumpkin syrup, bourbon or whiskey, fresh orange or clementine juice, and 1-2 dashes of orange bitters. Add ice to the shaker, then shake well to chill and combine all ingredients.
- Serve the drink: Strain the shaken cocktail into a glass filled with fresh ice. Optionally, top off the drink with ginger beer to add a fizzy, refreshing finish.
Notes
- To Make a Mocktail: Omit the bourbon and replace it with 1 additional tablespoon orange juice, 1 tablespoon apple cider, and 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
