Five Pumpkin Cocktails You Need for Fall

Hi guys! Today I’m really excited to bring you Garnish’s first ever guest post, by Jager Weatherby of Cocktail Builder. Cocktail builder is a site that helps you find drink recipes you can make with what you have in your bar. They’ve also got an awesome blog. Check it out today to read my guest post on Harry’s New York Bar in Paris!

We’ve reached the peak of October and you know what that means: everyone is going crazy about pumpkins. From pumpkin pie to pumpkin spice lattes, the squash is everywhere this season.

However, there’s a much more exciting way to consume the autumnal fruit. You guessed it: in a cocktail. While we still love other seasonal ingredients such as apples, cranberries, and pears, pumpkin adds a sweet and earthy flavor that’s unique and unexpected.

If you, too, can’t get enough of pumpkins, you won’t want to miss whipping up one of the following five cocktails. They’re equally perfect for unwinding by the fire or pairing with a warm and hearty meal.

Pumpkin Old Fashioned

If you’re hesitant to work squash into your cocktail regimen, the Pumpkin Old Fashioned is a good place to start. This updated version of the classic from The Raw and the Cooked includes pumpkin puree and ginger snap liqueur for an adult rendition of a cookie. See recipe

Pumpkin Toddy

Who doesn’t love a hot toddy when the weather cools down? This autumn-ready concoction from Better Homes and Gardens swaps honey for maple syrup, while adding apple brandy and pumpkin puree. This cocktail is so cozy, you’ll never want to say goodbye to the season. See recipe

Spiced Pumpkin Shrub

While whiskey seems to the rule cocktail creations in the fall, there’s still plenty to be had for vodka lovers. This recipe from Swooned calls for a homemade syrup of pumpkin, cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar. The mixture blends perfectly with vodka and ginger ale for a sip that’s spicy and sweet. See recipe

Spiced Pumpkin Punch

If you’re searching for a simple and festive recipe to serve a large crowd, look no further than this Pumpkin Punch from Honestly Yum. Spiced rum and spiced demerara syrup deliver a double whammy of autumnal flavor. Pro tip: wow guests at a Halloween party by using dry ice for a spooky effect. See recipe

Fireball Pumpkin Pie Shots

Pack a punch to your dessert with these whiskey-based creations from That’s So Michelle. Made with Fireball, pumpkin pudding mix, milk, and whipped cream, these sweet and easy treats are simply delicious. The recipe can be crafted into a silky mousse or frozen into creamsicles. These can also made days ahead of serving, making them a stress-free dessert to dole out after Thanksgiving dinner. See recipe