Pumpkin Spice White Russians are cozy, creamy, and perfect for fall.
It’s like your favorite holiday dessert got turned into a cocktail.
The mix of coffee liqueur, vodka, pumpkin spice, and cream is smooth, rich, and just sweet enough.
I love serving these at the end of a dinner party or while hanging out by the fire.
They take just minutes to make and feel like something special every time.
What You’ll Need
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
- 1 oz pumpkin spice creamer (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 oz heavy cream
- Ice cubes
- Optional garnish: cinnamon stick or pinch of pumpkin pie spice
Why I Love This Recipe
This cocktail is my fall favorite. It’s nostalgic and grown-up at the same time. I first had it at a little mountain cabin with friends during a chilly October trip. It’s been my go-to fall drink ever since.
- Takes 5 minutes start to finish
- Cozy pumpkin spice flavor without being overly sweet
- No fancy tools required
- Easy to batch for a crowd
- Feels fancy but is super easy
Servings and Time
Servings: 1 cocktail
Total Time: 5 minutes
Macros (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 11g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The heavy cream floats over the alcohol mix, creating a beautiful layered look and creamy texture. Coffee liqueur gives depth, vodka brings the buzz, and the pumpkin spice creamer adds warmth and sweetness that ties everything together.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much cream: Overpowers the drink
- Skipping the ice: Makes the drink too warm and flat
- Using flavored vodka: Can clash with the pumpkin spice
- Stirring too much: You lose that pretty swirl
What to Serve With
- Pumpkin pie
- Chocolate truffles
- Spiced nuts
- Salted caramel cookies
- After-dinner cheese board
FAQ
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based pumpkin creamer and coconut cream.
Can I make it without pumpkin creamer?
Mix 1 oz half-and-half with ¼ tsp pumpkin pie spice and ½ tsp maple syrup.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Multiply everything by how many drinks you want, mix in a pitcher without ice, and pour over fresh ice when serving.
Can I use whipped cream on top?
Absolutely! It’s a fun and sweet twist.
Tools Needed
- Lowball glass
- Cocktail shaker or stirring glass
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Small spoon for swirling
- Ice cube tray
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap vodka for bourbon for a deeper flavor
- Use maple liqueur instead of coffee liqueur
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth
- Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for a festive touch
Make-Ahead Tips
You can mix the vodka, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin creamer ahead of time. Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just pour over ice and add cream when ready to serve.
Instructions
Step 1: Fill your glass with ice
Place a handful of ice cubes into a lowball glass. This chills the drink and keeps it refreshing.
Step 2: Add 2 oz vodka
Pour 2 oz of vodka directly over the ice in your glass.
Step 3: Add 1 oz coffee liqueur
Next, pour 1 oz of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) into the glass.
Step 4: Add 1 oz pumpkin spice creamer
Pour in 1 oz of pumpkin spice creamer for that warm, fall flavor.
Step 5: Add 1 oz heavy cream
Finish with 1 oz heavy cream poured slowly to float on top.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Top with a cinnamon stick or a tiny pinch of pumpkin pie spice. Give a gentle stir if you want it fully blended.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best fresh, but if needed, you can mix the vodka, coffee liqueur, and creamer ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Don’t add cream or ice until you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Spice White Russian is the coziest way to toast to fall. It’s creamy, flavorful, and simple enough to make any night feel special. Try it out, and if you love it (or have a twist you added), leave a comment and let me know how it turned out!
