Pumpkin spice takes center stage in this rich and velvety espresso martini, delivering a festive twist to your favorite after-dinner cocktail. Perfect for crisp autumn evenings, this seasonal sipper combines the bold kick of espresso with smooth vodka, creamy notes, and real pumpkin for a luxuriously spiced drink that feels both cozy and sophisticated. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening in, this pumpkin spice espresso martini is a quick, indulgent treat with just the right balance of warmth, sweetness, and caffeine. Shake it up in minutes—and sip your way into fall bliss.
Table of Contents
❤️ Why I Love This Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
This pumpkin spice espresso martini is pure fall magic in a glass. I love it because it’s indulgent without being over-the-top—cozy, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet with that deep coffee bite I crave. The real pumpkin and warming spices give it a homemade touch that feels way more special than your average cocktail. It’s my go-to when I want something seasonal but still sophisticated—and let’s be honest, it totally steals the show at any autumn gathering. One sip, and I’m officially in sweater weather mode.
Ingredients
To craft this perfectly balanced pumpkin spice espresso martini, gather the following:
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- 1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ounce vodka (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1½ ounces coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or similar)
- 1½ ounces hot espresso (or strong coffee, cold brew, or instant espresso)
- 1½ ounces creamer of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- Ice (for shaking)
💡 Ingredient Tips:
- Espresso substitute: Cold brew concentrate or instant espresso works great in a pinch.
- Creamer options: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk creamer for a dairy-free twist.
- Spice blend: No pumpkin pie spice? Use a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to shake up a smooth and flavorful pumpkin spice espresso martini:
- Prep your ingredients
Brew fresh espresso (or prepare your coffee substitute). Measure out the vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and creamer. - Fill shaker with ice
Add a generous amount of ice to a cocktail shaker to ensure a chilled and foamy finish. - Add ingredients
Pour the vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin purée, spice, and creamer into the shaker. Add the hot espresso last to prevent the ice from melting prematurely. - Shake vigorously
Seal the shaker and shake with muscle for 15–30 seconds. This step builds the rich foam essential for an espresso martini. - Strain and serve
Strain the cocktail into a martini or coupe glass. Optionally garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or three coffee beans for a classic finish.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American (Fall-Inspired Cocktail)
Nutrition Facts (estimated per serving)
- Calories: ~190
- Carbohydrates: ~14g
- Sugar: ~10g
- Fat: ~2g (varies based on creamer used)
- Alcohol Content: ~1.5 standard drinks
📌 Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the type of creamer, liqueur, and exact measurements used.
Tips & Variations
🧡 Expert Tips
- Use hot espresso for the best foam—add it last to avoid melting the ice too quickly.
- Shake hard and fast for 15–30 seconds to build that rich, foamy layer.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for a pro-style presentation.
🔄 Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond, oat, or coconut creamer for a vegan version.
- Stronger kick: Swap vodka for spiced rum for an extra cozy flavor.
- No espresso machine? Use high-quality instant coffee or cold brew concentrate instead.
❓FAQs
Can I batch this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and shake in small batches to maintain foam quality.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
Mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of ground ginger for a quick DIY blend.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner party or winding down after a chilly day, this pumpkin spice espresso martini is the ultimate seasonal indulgence. It’s rich, spiced just right, and silky smooth with a satisfying espresso kick. Plus, it’s easy to customize—whether you’re dairy-free, alcohol-savvy, or just pumpkin-obsessed. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new autumn go-to cocktail.
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