Pumpkin Spice Margarita

Pumpkin Spice Margarita is a fall-inspired twist on the classic margarita, blending tequila, pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a splash of citrus. This seasonal cocktail delivers a cozy yet refreshing experience perfect for autumn entertaining or relaxing by the fire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal favorite: A creative way to enjoy pumpkin spice beyond coffee and baked goods
• Balanced flavors: Sweet pumpkin and warm spice meet tart lime and smooth tequila
• Easy to make: Comes together in minutes with simple ingredients
• Perfect for parties: Easily scaled up for pitchers or batch cocktails
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spice level, or make it alcohol-free

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Tequila (blanco or reposado)
• Cointreau or triple sec
• Fresh lime juice
• Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• Pumpkin spice or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove
• Simple syrup or maple syrup
• Ice

Optional Rim & Garnishes:

• Cinnamon-sugar or spiced sugar for rimming
• Maple syrup or lime juice to help rim stick
• Cinnamon stick, lime wedge, or star anise for garnish

directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the rim: Rub the edge of your glass with lime or maple syrup. Dip into cinnamon-sugar or spiced sugar.
2. Shake: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, pumpkin puree, simple syrup, and pumpkin spice. Shake well for 15–30 seconds.
3. Serve: Strain into an ice-filled, rimmed glass.
4. Garnish: Add a cinnamon stick or lime wedge if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 1 cocktail (easily multiplied for batches)
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Total time: 5–10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add a jalapeño slice or use a spicy chili-rimmed salt
• Frozen: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy version
• Mocktail: Substitute tequila and Cointreau with orange juice and sparkling water
• Creamy version: Add a splash of cream or use cream liqueur for a dessert-like twist
• Bourbon swap: Use bourbon instead of tequila for a pumpkin spice whiskey sour vibe

storage/reheating

• Storage: Pre-mix the cocktail without ice and refrigerate for up to 2 days
• Re-shake: Shake again before serving to combine ingredients evenly
• Do not heat: This is a cold cocktail and should not be reheated

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, use plain canned pumpkin—not pumpkin pie filling.

What kind of tequila is best?

Blanco for a crisp flavor or reposado for a slightly smoother, aged finish.

Is this drink sweet?

Moderately. You can adjust the sweetness with more or less syrup.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup all work well.

How do I make a pitcher?

Multiply the ingredients by 4 or 8 and mix in a pitcher without ice. Chill and shake individual servings.

Can I make this a mocktail?

Yes, use orange juice and sparkling water in place of tequila and triple sec.

What spice works if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

Use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of clove or allspice.

Is this a dessert cocktail?

It can be! Add a touch of cream or use a cinnamon-sugar rim for a sweeter finish.

Can I add carbonation?

Sure, top with a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist.

Do I need a shaker?

A jar with a tight lid works if you don’t have a cocktail shaker.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice Margarita is a festive and flavorful cocktail that brings autumn flair to your happy hour. Whether you’re serving it at a fall gathering or sipping solo by the fire, this unique blend of pumpkin, spice, and tequila is a delicious seasonal favorite that’s both cozy and refreshing.

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