If you’re craving a cozy cocktail that captures all the warm, comforting flavors of fall, you just have to try this Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of creamy pumpkin spice goodness, rich coffee liqueur, and smooth vodka, coming together in a way that feels both indulgent and utterly festive. Whether you’re hosting friends or curling up with a good book, this cocktail is a total showstopper that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe are simple yet essential, working together to create a luscious texture, rich flavor, and that iconic fall vibe we all love. Each element brings something special to the party, from the smooth vodka base to the cozy pumpkin spice creamer.
- 3 ounces vodka: Use your favorite mid-range vodka for a clean, smooth spirit backbone.
- 3 ounces pumpkin spice creamer: This adds creamy sweetness and that unmistakable pumpkin spice flavor.
- 1.5 ounces Kahlúa coffee liqueur: Brings deep coffee flavor and a hint of sweetness to balance the spices.
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish): Adds a fluffy, luxurious topping perfect for presentation and extra richness.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (plus more, for garnish): The key to infusing that signature fall warmth throughout the cocktail and on top as a fragrant touch.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (or sparkling sugar): Used to sweeten and sparkle the glass rim for a delightful first sip.
- 3 tablespoons crushed graham crackers: These form a crunchy, buttery rim that enhances both texture and aroma.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Glass Rim
First, mix your graham crackers, granulated sugar, and pumpkin pie spice on a shallow plate. Dip the rims of two glasses into water, then press them firmly into the crunchy graham mixture. This rim adds a beautiful, buttery crunch and subtle sweetness with every sip, setting the stage for the cocktail magic.
Step 2: Shake the Cocktail
Next, pour the vodka, pumpkin spice creamer, and Kahlúa into a large cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake gently but thoroughly—enough to combine and chill the ingredients without diluting them too much. This step is crucial to marry those rich flavors and achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
Pour the chilled cocktail mixture into the prepared glasses filled with fresh ice. Top each drink with a generous swirl of whipped cream for extra indulgence, then sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top for that aromatic, festive finish that will make your taste buds sing.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream with a dusting of pumpkin pie spice is the classic garnish that gives these cocktails their inviting, dessert-like appeal. You can also add a small cinnamon stick or a star anise for a fancy twist. The garnish isn’t just for show—it adds texture, aroma, and a little extra comfort.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe with cozy fall treats like spiced pecan cookies, buttery shortbread, or even a slice of pumpkin bread. These side bites complement the cocktail’s sweet and spicy notes perfectly, turning your drink into a full seasonal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving in vintage glassware or mason jars for a rustic touch. You can also rim the glasses with different spices or cocoa powder for a personalized flair. Adding a tiny pumpkin or cinnamon stick on the side of the glass can elevate the presentation, making it both Instagram-ready and unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to make more than you can drink, store any leftover cocktail in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a gentle stir before serving, and add fresh ice and whipped cream to revive its texture and flavor. The creaminess is best enjoyed fresh, so try not to wait too long!
Freezing
This Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe is not ideal for freezing since the cream and liqueurs can separate and lose their smooth consistency. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh or chilled rather than frozen.
Reheating
This cocktail is designed to be served cold, so reheating is not recommended. Warm temperatures will change the texture and taste, especially with the creamer and whipped cream, which are meant to be enjoyed cool and creamy.
FAQs
Can I make this cocktail dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the pumpkin spice creamer for a dairy-free version such as almond or oat-based pumpkin spice creamer. It will still deliver that cozy flavor while keeping it dairy-free and just as delicious.
What’s a good substitute for Kahlúa?
If you don’t have Kahlúa, any coffee liqueur will work nicely. For a non-alcoholic twist, you can use chilled coffee or coffee syrup with a splash of vanilla extract, but the cocktail won’t have quite the same kick.
Can I make this cocktail for a larger group?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you want. Mix the batch in a large pitcher, keep it chilled, and pour over ice into rimmed glasses just before serving for easy entertaining.
Is pumpkin spice creamer hard to find?
Most grocery stores carry pumpkin spice flavored creamers during the fall season. If you can’t find it, you can make your own by combining regular creamer with pumpkin pie spice and a bit of maple syrup or sugar for sweetness.
How strong is this cocktail?
With vodka and Kahlúa, this drink has a moderate alcoholic strength, perfect for sipping slowly. The cream and pumpkin spice creamer mellow out the vodka, making it smooth and approachable even for those who prefer lighter cocktails.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves festive fall flavors in their drinks. Its harmonious balance of creamy, spiced, and coffee notes makes every sip feel like a special celebration of the season. Trust me—you’re going to want to keep this one in your regular rotation for cozy nights and holiday gatherings alike. Go ahead and whip one up—you won’t regret it!
Print
Pumpkin Spice White Russian Cocktail Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 drinks
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A festive and creamy Pumpkin Spice White Russian cocktail that combines vodka, pumpkin spice creamer, and Kahlúa coffee liqueur. This easy-to-make drink is perfect for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations, featuring a graham cracker rim and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
Ingredients
For the Cocktail
- 3 ounces vodka (2 shots)
- 3 ounces pumpkin spice creamer (2 shots)
- 1.5 ounces Kahlúa coffee liqueur (1 shot)
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (plus more for garnish)
For the Rim
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar or sparkling sugar
- 3 tablespoons crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Glasses: Mix the granulated sugar and crushed graham crackers together on a shallow plate. Wet the rims of two glasses by dipping them briefly in water, then dip the rims into the graham cracker mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly. Set the glasses aside.
- Mix the Cocktail: In a large cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, pumpkin spice creamer, and Kahlúa coffee liqueur. Fill the shaker with ice and shake lightly until the ingredients are well combined and chilled.
- Serve: Pour the mixed cocktail into the prepared glasses filled with ice. Top each drink with a dollop of whipped cream if desired, then sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice to garnish.
Notes
- The graham cracker and sugar rim adds a delightful texture and sweetness to complement the creamy cocktail.
- You can adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your preference for a stronger or milder autumn flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute vodka and Kahlúa with coffee or coffee-flavored syrup and increase the pumpkin spice creamer.
- Make sure to shake the cocktail well but gently to avoid overly diluting with ice.
