Pumpkin spice season isn’t just for lattes.
This Pumpkin Whiskey Sour is a cozy twist on a classic cocktail—smooth, spiced, and just the right amount of sweet and tangy.
It’s perfect for fall nights, Halloween parties, or just winding down on a crisp evening.
I love making this for friends because it’s easy, but still feels special.
What You’ll Need
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz pumpkin purée
- ¾ oz maple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional, for froth)
- Ice cubes
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
- Lemon wheel or cinnamon stick (optional garnish)
Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of my favorite drinks to make when fall hits. It brings together warmth, spice, and that familiar whiskey kick—like autumn in a glass.
- It’s a fun twist on a classic whiskey sour
- Great way to use up leftover canned pumpkin
- Impressive to serve but easy to make
- Perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smooth
- That egg white froth? Total bartender vibes
Makes: 1 cocktail
Time: 5 minutes
Macros (approx per serving)
Calories: 210
Carbs: 15g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 0g
Alcohol: ~1.5 servings
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The acid from the lemon juice reacts with the egg white to create that beautiful foam. The pumpkin purée adds a velvety texture that sticks to the whiskey without overpowering it. Maple syrup gives sweetness without being sharp like simple syrup, and plays well with the spice of the cinnamon and the earthy pumpkin.
Common Mistakes
- Using pumpkin pie mix instead of plain purée – that’ll make it too sweet and spiced.
- Skipping the dry shake – if you’re using egg white, this step is key to get that creamy top.
- Too much lemon juice – more than 1 oz will overpower the pumpkin and whiskey.
- Not straining – no one wants pumpkin pulp chunks in their drink.
What to Serve With
- A cheese board with smoked gouda, aged cheddar, and walnuts
- Pumpkin bread or mini muffins
- Roasted nuts with sea salt
- Apple pie or cinnamon donuts
Tools Needed
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Fine mesh strainer (if using egg white)
- Citrus juicer
- Bar spoon
- Lowball glass
Substitutions & Variations
- Use rye whiskey if you want a spicier kick
- Swap maple syrup for honey or agave
- Try aquafaba (chickpea water) instead of egg white for a vegan version
- Add a dash of bitters for more depth
- Garnish with grated nutmeg for a stronger fall vibe
Make Ahead Tips
You can pre-mix the pumpkin, maple syrup, and lemon juice and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake with whiskey and ice when ready to serve.
Instructions
Step 1: Add pumpkin purée, lemon juice, maple syrup, and egg white to shaker
Pour 1 oz pumpkin purée, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, ¾ oz maple syrup, and 1 egg white (if using) into a cocktail shaker.
Step 2: Dry shake (no ice)
Seal the shaker and shake hard for 15 seconds to mix and froth the egg white without dilution.
Step 3: Add whiskey and ice
Open the shaker, then add 2 oz bourbon whiskey and a generous scoop of ice cubes.
Step 4: Shake again
Seal and shake for another 15-20 seconds until the shaker is icy cold.
Step 5: Strain and serve
Strain into a lowball glass with or without ice. Garnish with a lemon wheel, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of ground cinnamon on top if you’d like.
Leftovers & Storage
This drink is best fresh, but if you pre-mix the pumpkin, lemon juice, and syrup, it can stay in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just shake with whiskey and ice when ready. If you already added egg white, don’t store—just drink it.
FAQ
Can I skip the egg white?
Yes! It’s optional. You’ll still get a great drink without the frothy top.
Can I use canned pumpkin pie mix?
Nope—use 100% pure pumpkin purée for best results.
Do I have to use bourbon?
Bourbon is best, but you can use rye or even dark rum if that’s what you have.
Can I make this for a group?
Totally. Multiply the ingredients and shake in batches.
Wrap-Up
This Pumpkin Whiskey Sour is one of those drinks that surprises people—in the best way. It’s cozy, flavorful, and easy to pull off. Whether you’re winding down or kicking off a fall gathering, this is the kind of cocktail that brings the season to life. Give it a try and let me know how it went in the comments!
