Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail
A decadent autumn twist on the classic White Russian, combining vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream with rich pumpkin flavor and warming spices for a sophisticated seasonal cocktail that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka quality matters here
- 1 oz coffee liqueur Kahlúa works perfectly
- 1 oz pumpkin spice creamer or 1 oz heavy cream + 1 tsp pumpkin purée + ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ oz pumpkin spice syrup store-bought or homemade
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream for garnish optional
- Pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for garnish
- Cinnamon stick for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare your glass by filling a rocks glass with ice cubes. The larger the ice cubes, the slower they’ll melt and dilute your drink.
- Add vodka and coffee liqueur directly to the ice-filled glass and give it a gentle stir with a bar spoon or regular spoon.
- Combine your pumpkin elements in a separate container—mix the pumpkin spice creamer (or cream + pumpkin purée + spice) with the pumpkin spice syrup until well incorporated.
- Layer the pumpkin cream mixture carefully over the back of a spoon to create a beautiful layered effect. For a more blended drink, simply stir everything together.
- Top with whipped cream if desired, and sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for aroma and presentation.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick for stirring and additional aroma if you’re feeling fancy.
- Serve immediately while the drink is perfectly chilled and the layers are distinct.
Notes
- For a homemade pumpkin spice syrup, simmer 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice for 5 minutes, then strain and cool.
- If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the pumpkin spice syrup to ¼ oz.
- For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works beautifully and adds a complementary flavor.
- This cocktail can be batch-prepared (without ice) for parties and stored in a pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- The quality of your vodka matters—a smoother vodka means a smoother cocktail.