Name: Pumpkin Spice Margarita
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 oz silver tequila; 1 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau); 1 oz fresh lime juice; 1 oz pumpkin puree; 1/2 oz maple syrup (or simple syrup); 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice; Ice; Cinnamon sugar (for rim (optional)); Lime wedge or cinnamon stick (for garnish)

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Get ready to sip on autumn with this Pumpkin Spice Margarita, a Fall Cocktail Bliss that blends smooth tequila, creamy pumpkin puree, warm spices, and zesty lime for a cozy yet refreshing drink. Perfect for fall parties or a fireside evening, this cocktail comes together in just 5 minutes. With Pumpkin Spice Margarita, you’ll elevate your happy hour with seasonal flair!

Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Spice Margarita

I can’t get enough of this Pumpkin Spice Margarita because it’s a Fall Cocktail Bliss that transforms the classic margarita into an autumn delight. The sweet pumpkin and warm spices pair perfectly with tart lime and tequila, creating a balanced, festive sip. It’s quick to make, easily customizable, and ideal for everything from cozy nights to lively gatherings!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Margarita

Here’s what you’ll need for Pumpkin Spice Margarita (makes 1 cocktail):

2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
1 oz fresh lime juice
2 tbsp pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
½ tsp pumpkin spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove)
½ oz simple syrup or maple syrup
Ice
Optional Rim & Garnishes:
- Cinnamon-sugar or spiced sugar for rimming
- Maple syrup or lime juice to help rim stick
- Cinnamon stick, lime wedge, or star anise for garnish

Equipment

Cocktail shaker or jar with a tight lid
Rocks glass or margarita glass
Small plate for rimming
Measuring jigger
Strainer

Ingredient Tips

Tequila: Blanco tequila offers a crisp taste; reposado adds a smoother, aged depth.
Pumpkin Puree: Use plain canned pumpkin for consistency; avoid pie filling with added spices.
Pumpkin Spice: Store-bought works, or mix ¼ tsp cinnamon, ⅛ tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of clove.
Sweetener: Maple syrup enhances fall flavors; simple syrup or honey are great alternatives.
Rim: Cinnamon-sugar adds sweetness; mix with a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.

Directions for Pumpkin Spice Margarita

Let’s shake up this festive Pumpkin Spice Margarita!

Prepare the Rim

I rub the edge of a rocks glass with a lime wedge or maple syrup, then dip it into a small plate of cinnamon-sugar or spiced sugar for a festive rim.

Shake the Cocktail

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, I add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz Cointreau, 1 oz lime juice, 2 tbsp pumpkin puree, ½ tsp pumpkin spice, and ½ oz simple syrup. I shake vigorously for 15–30 seconds to blend the flavors of the Pumpkin Spice Margarita.

Serve

I strain the mixture into the ice-filled, rimmed glass, ensuring a smooth pour.

Garnish

I finish the Pumpkin Spice Margarita with a cinnamon stick or lime wedge for a cozy, elegant touch.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5–10 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Calories: ~200 kcal per serving (1 cocktail)
Macros per Serving: 20g carbs, 0g protein, 0g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Margarita

Try these twists on Pumpkin Spice Margarita:

Spicy: Add a jalapeño slice or rim with chili salt for a fiery Fall Cocktail Bliss.
Frozen: Blend ingredients with 1 cup ice for a slushy Fall Cocktail Bliss version.
Mocktail: Swap tequila and Cointreau with 2 oz orange juice and 1 oz sparkling water.
Creamy Version: Add ½ oz cream or cream liqueur for a dessert-like sip.
Bourbon Swap: Use 2 oz bourbon instead of tequila for a pumpkin spice whiskey sour vibe.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Corn Guacamole for a festive appetizer-cocktail combo.
Serve with pumpkin bread or spiced nuts for a cozy Fall Cocktail Bliss experience.
Offer at a fall gathering with apple cider or hot toddies for variety.

Storage

I pre-mix the Pumpkin Spice Margarita (without ice) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving, I shake it again with ice to refresh the flavors. I avoid heating, as this is a cold cocktail meant to stay chilled. For batch prep, I mix in a pitcher without ice and chill, shaking individual servings as needed.

Serving Tips

Presentation: Serve Pumpkin Spice Margarita in a rocks or margarita glass with a spiced rim for autumn vibes.
Garnish: Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or lime wedge for a festive flourish.
Pairing: Enjoy with spiced snacks or fall desserts to complement Pumpkin Spice Margarita.
Temperature: Serve chilled over ice for a refreshing, crisp sip.
Portion Size: One cocktail per person for a perfect happy hour treat.

FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about this Pumpkin Spice Margarita recipe:

Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, use plain canned pumpkin—not pumpkin pie filling.

What kind of tequila is best?
Blanco for a crisp flavor or reposado for a slightly smoother, aged finish.

Is this drink sweet?
Moderately. You can adjust the sweetness with more or less syrup.

Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup all work well.

How do I make a pitcher?
Multiply the ingredients by 4 or 8 and mix in a pitcher without ice. Chill and shake individual servings.

Can I make this a mocktail?
Yes, use orange juice and sparkling water in place of tequila and triple sec.

What spice works if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
Use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of clove or allspice.

Is this a dessert cocktail?
It can be! Add a touch of cream or use a cinnamon-sugar rim for a sweeter finish.

Can I add carbonation?
Sure, top with a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist.

Do I need a shaker?
A jar with a tight lid works if you don’t have a cocktail shaker.

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Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice Margarita is a festive and flavorful cocktail that brings autumn flair to your happy hour. Whether you’re serving it at a fall gathering or sipping solo by the fire, this unique blend of pumpkin, spice, and tequila is a delicious seasonal favorite that’s both cozy and refreshing.