The Pumpkin Sour is one of my favorite Halloween cocktails, blending sweet pumpkin with a zesty lemon twist. It’s cozy, festive, and perfect for autumn gatherings. While I also love a good pumpkin martini, this cocktail adds a refreshing, tangy balance that makes it a seasonal must-have.
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Pumpkin sour recipe
The Pumpkin Sour is a version of the classic whiskey sour cocktail. This seasonal cocktail embodies the essence of autumn in a glass. It combines the flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with the classic sour cocktail base.
This drink is perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving, or any occasion where you want to celebrate the flavors of autumn. Here’s how to make the pumpkin sour cocktail:
Pumpkin Spiced Sour
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
- 1 oz lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 oz pumpkin puree
- 1 oz maple syrup or simple syrup
- 1 dash of cinnamon
- 1 dash of nutmeg
- 1 egg white optional, for a frothy texture
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon stick or pumpkin spice for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and egg white (if using).
- Shake vigorously without ice for 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white and get that frothy texture.
- Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice or serve it straight up in a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or sprinkle pumpkin spice on top.
Variations
1. Non-alcoholic version
A spirit-free pumpkin spiced sour can be crafted using a blend of apple cider and pumpkin puree as the base. This mocktail maintains the cocktail’s essence while offering an inclusive option for non-drinkers.
2. Vegan alternatives replacing egg white
Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, serves as an excellent vegan substitute for egg whites. It creates a similar foam and mouthfeel, ensuring that plant-based imbibers can enjoy the full pumpkin sour experience.
3. Pumpkin Sour with pumpkin syrup
This version stands out due to its spiced pumpkin syrup, which infuses each sip with warmth and sweetness that perfectly balances the acidity of the lemon juice. To make this, you’ll need:
- Spiced Pumpkin Syrup:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup pumpkin purée
- 1 tsp each of nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cinnamon
- Cocktail Components:
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 egg white (or aquafaba for a vegan option)
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
4. Different base spirit variations
While bourbon is the traditional choice, experimenting with different base spirits can yield exciting results:
- Rye whiskey adds a spicier backbone
- Aged rum contributes notes of caramel and vanilla
- Cognac brings a touch of luxury and fruit
5. Hot Pumpkin Spiced Sour
On frosty nights, a warm version of this cocktail can provide cozy comfort. To create a Hot Pumpkin Spiced Sour:
- Combine all ingredients except egg white in a small saucepan
- Heat gently, stirring constantly
- Remove ice from the ingredients
- Pour into a preheated mug
- Top with frothed milk instead of egg white
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise
How to pair
1. Savory Dishes
- Pumpkin Pasta: This creamy pumpkin pasta dish beautifully complements the sour notes of the cocktail, creating a harmonious meal that captures the essence of fall flavors.
- Bacon-Wrapped Dishes: The savory, salty crunch of bacon pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of pumpkin, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
- Chanterelle Mushrooms: These earthy mushrooms add depth and richness to any pumpkin dish, making them an exceptional pairing choice.
2. Appetizers
The pumpkin spiced sour pairs beautifully with a variety of fall appetizers. Its complex flavor profile complements both sweet and savory dishes.
- Spiced nuts echo the drink’s warm spices
- Butternut squash crostini mirrors the pumpkin notes
- Brie en croûte with fig jam balances the cocktail’s acidity
3. Main course pairings
For main courses, the pumpkin spiced sour acts as a palate cleanser between bites of rich, autumnal dishes.
Main Course | Pairing Notes |
Roasted turkey | The cocktail’s acidity cuts through the richness |
Butternut squash risotto | Creamy texture complements the drink’s silkiness |
Spiced pork tenderloin | Warm spices echo the cocktail’s flavors |
4. Desserts
The pumpkin cocktail pairs well with a range of sweet treats.
- Pumpkin pie amplifies the cocktail’s pumpkin notes
- Pecan tart contrasts with its nutty sweetness
- Spiced apple crisp complements the drink’s warm spices