Pumpkin Old Fashioned: A Festive Twist on a Classic Cocktail
Pumpkin Old Fashioned
Equipment
- Equipment Needed: Mixing glass, bar spoon, jigger, strainer, and rocks glass.
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: The backbone of your cocktail choose one that you enjoy.
- 1/2 oz Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin or homemade puree for best flavor.
- 1/4 oz Maple Syrup: For sweetness adjust to taste.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters: A classic bitters to enhance flavor.
- 1 dash Cinnamon optional: For a spiced note.
- Ice: For serving.
- Orange Twist: For garnish.
Instructions
- Method
- Mixing the Base: In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon or rye, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, bitters, and cinnamon.
- Stir: Add ice to the mixing glass and stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail slightly.
- Strain: Using a strainer, pour the mixture over fresh ice in a rocks glass.
- Garnish: Express the oils from an orange twist over the drink and drop it in as a garnish.
- Variations and Tips
- Substitutions: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the whiskey with a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative or a spiced apple cider for a warm drink.
- Sweeteners: Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or agave syrup for different flavors.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for added warmth.
- Serving Suggestions: This cocktail pairs beautifully with appetizers like smoked meats or a charcuterie board.
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a Pumpkin Old Fashioned. This delightful cocktail combines the timeless elegance of an Old Fashioned with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices. Let me show you how I make this seasonal favorite.
What to Expect
From my own personal experience, the Pumpkin Old Fashioned brings a unique twist to a beloved classic. The rich pumpkin flavor, combined with the warm spices and smooth whiskey, creates a cozy experience perfect for fall gatherings. Expect a well-balanced drink that’s not overly sweet, allowing the warmth of the spices to shine through.
Quick Meal Facts
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Time to Stand: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Ease of Cooking: Easy
- Servings: 1 cocktail
- Calories: Approximately 190 calories
- Cost of Ingredients: $10-15 (depending on brand and quality)
- Equipment Needed: Mixing glass, bar spoon, jigger, strainer, and rocks glass.
- > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a delightful #Pumpkin Old Fashioned now.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: The backbone of your cocktail, choose one that you enjoy.
- 1/2 oz Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin or homemade puree for best flavor.
- 1/4 oz Maple Syrup: For sweetness, adjust to taste.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters: A classic bitters to enhance flavor.
- 1 dash Cinnamon (optional): For a spiced note.
- Ice: For serving.
- Orange Twist: For garnish.
- > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a delightful #Pumpkin Old Fashioned now.
Method
- Mixing the Base: In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon or rye, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, bitters, and cinnamon.
- Stir: Add ice to the mixing glass and stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail slightly.
- Strain: Using a strainer, pour the mixture over fresh ice in a rocks glass.
- Garnish: Express the oils from an orange twist over the drink and drop it in as a garnish.
Variations and Tips
- Substitutions: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the whiskey with a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative or a spiced apple cider for a warm drink.
- Sweeteners: Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or agave syrup for different flavors.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for added warmth.
- Serving Suggestions: This cocktail pairs beautifully with appetizers like smoked meats or a charcuterie board.
- > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a delightful #Pumpkin Old Fashioned now.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~190
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 12g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too Sweet?: If the cocktail is too sweet for your taste, add a bit more bourbon or a splash of club soda to balance it out.
- Too Strong?: If the drink is too strong, dilute it with a bit more ice or add a splash of water.
- Consistency Issues: If the pumpkin puree is too thick, try blending it with a bit of water to make it easier to mix.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Carbohydrates (g) | Sugars (g) | Fat (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bourbon or Rye Whiskey | 2 oz | 140 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Pumpkin Puree | 1/2 oz | 15 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Maple Syrup | 1/4 oz | 52 | 14 | 12 | 0 | 0 |
| Angostura Bitters | 2 dashes | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Cinnamon (optional) | 1 dash | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total per Serving | 212 | 19 | 13 | 0 | 0 |
Serving Suggestions
- Food Pairings: The Pumpkin Old Fashioned complements a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside:
- Savory Appetizers: Cheese platters, smoked meats, or spiced nuts.
- Main Courses: Roasted turkey, pumpkin soup, or butternut squash risotto.
- Desserts: Pecan pie, apple crisp, or spiced pumpkin cheesecake.
- Glassware: Serve the cocktail in a rocks glass to enhance the presentation and experience.
Notes
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sweetness and spices according to your preferences. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the amount of maple syrup or use a sugar substitute.
- Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you use 100% pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which often contains added sugars and spices.
- Chill Your Glass: For an extra refreshing experience, chill your glass beforehand by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Batch Preparation: This recipe can easily be multiplied for batch preparation. Mix the ingredients in a larger mixing bowl or pitcher, and serve as needed.
- Seasonal Variations: Consider incorporating other seasonal flavors, such as cranberry or apple cider, for a fun twist.
FAQs on Pumpkin Old Fashioned Cocktails
1. Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Pumpkin Old Fashioned?
Yes! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon or rye whiskey with a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative or a spiced apple cider. This keeps the warm flavors while making it suitable for all guests.
2. What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can substitute it with other pureed fruits or vegetables like sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly.
3. How can I adjust the sweetness of the cocktail?
You can easily adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of maple syrup. If you want a less sweet cocktail, consider using a sugar-free syrup or just omitting it altogether.
4. What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin puree?
If you have leftover pumpkin puree, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. This way, you can use it in future cocktails or recipes!
5. Can I make this cocktail in advance?
While it’s best to mix this cocktail fresh for optimal flavor, you can prepare the pumpkin mixture (pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and spices) in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the whiskey and ice right before serving.
Final Words
The Pumpkin Old Fashioned is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of the fall season while enjoying a classic cocktail. From my own personal experience, it brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Its versatility makes it perfect for pairing with a range of dishes, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the recipe and make it your own! Whether you choose to sweeten it up, add a unique twist, or go the non-alcoholic route, this cocktail is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, mix up a batch, and enjoy the festive spirit of autumn with every sip! Cheers!
Hi!
I’m Mike, the creator of Forum Foodies. In my own personal experience, understanding ingredients is key to great cooking.
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