This drink is fall in a glass. Creamy, spiced, cozy — but with a grown-up twist.
I love making this when I want something that feels festive but takes no time at all.
It’s simple, smooth, and seriously delicious.
If you’re a fan of pumpkin spice and chai, you’re going to love how they come together with vodka and cream in this easy cocktail.
Let’s shake one up!
What You’ll Need
- 2 oz vodka
- 1.5 oz chai concentrate (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 oz pumpkin spice syrup
- 1 oz heavy cream (or half and half)
- Ice
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something about this martini that feels like the best parts of fall in one sip.
I first made it on a cold October night after a long day, and it instantly became a go-to.
- It’s quick and easy to mix up
- Feels like a fancy coffee shop latte… but it’s a cocktail
- Great for fall parties or a night in
- Creamy, sweet, spiced, and balanced
- Works beautifully with both dairy and non-dairy options
Servings and Time
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Macros (per serving, using heavy cream)
- Calories: 220
- Carbs: 14g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 1g
- Alcohol: Approx. 14g (based on 2 oz vodka)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The cream smooths out the sharpness of the vodka while also balancing the spices in the chai and pumpkin syrup. Chai brings depth and warmth with black tea, cinnamon, and cardamom. Pumpkin spice syrup adds sweetness and that classic seasonal flavor. Vodka stays neutral, letting the spices shine. The ice shake chills and lightly dilutes for a silky finish.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much syrup: It’ll turn out way too sweet. Stick to 1 oz.
- Not shaking long enough: You want it super cold and well mixed—shake until your shaker feels icy.
- Using sweetened chai and syrup: Too much sugar makes it cloying. Pick one or the other to sweeten.
- Skipping the cream: That splash of cream brings everything together.
What to Serve With
- A cinnamon sugar rimmed cookie or biscotti
- Sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda
- Salted nuts or spiced pecans
- A slice of pumpkin or apple pie
FAQ
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream, oat milk creamer, or almond milk creamer.
Can I make a big batch?
Absolutely. Multiply each ingredient by the number of servings and shake in batches.
Do I have to use vodka?
You can sub in spiced rum or bourbon, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Can I use sweetened chai?
Yes, but cut the pumpkin spice syrup in half so it’s not too sweet.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Coupe or martini glass
- Small strainer (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap vodka with spiced rum or bourbon
- Use maple syrup + pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin spice syrup
- Sub coconut cream or oat milk for heavy cream
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg on top
- Use espresso instead of chai for a Pumpkin Espresso Martini twist
Make Ahead Tips
- Mix vodka, chai, and syrup ahead in a jar. Store in fridge up to 2 days.
- Just add cream and ice when ready to shake and serve.
Step 1: Measure and pour 2 oz vodka into shaker
Step 2: Add 1.5 oz chai concentrate
Step 3: Add 1 oz pumpkin spice syrup
Step 4: Add 1 oz heavy cream
Step 5: Add ice and shake
Step 6: Shake well until cold (about 15 seconds)
Step 7: Strain into a coupe glass and garnish
Leftovers and Storage
- Best served right away, but you can keep the shaken mix (without cream) in the fridge up to 24 hours.
- Don’t store with ice or cream already mixed in — it’ll separate or water down.
- Always shake again with ice right before serving.
Let’s Wrap It Up
This Pumpkin Chai Martini is a creamy, cozy, spiced cocktail that’s perfect for fall nights, gatherings, or just treating yourself. It’s simple but feels special — and once you try it, it might just become your new favorite seasonal sip. If you make it, drop a comment below and let me know what you think or if you have any questions!
