This Pumpkin Espresso Martini is boozy, rich, creamy, perfectly spiced, and so easy to shake up! Made with real pumpkin, pumpkin spice, vodka, RumChata, and espresso, it’s the ultimate fall dessert cocktail.
Ever wondered what an espresso martini and a pumpkin spice latte would taste like combined into one? I give you the Pumpkin Espresso Martini… or should we call it a Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini?
No matter what you call it, this pumpkin martini really has it all! Smooth pumpkin, a shot of bold espresso, warm fall spices, and a swirl of RumChata make for a creamy, frothy cocktail perfect for fall.
What I really love about this pumpkin martini is how incredibly smooth it sips. Even with two shots of booze, you barely notice as the creamy half and half and cozy pumpkin flavor mellow it all out.
Plus, the espresso adds just enough boldness to balance everything without overpowering the sweet, spiced fall flavors. It’s the perfect harmony!
“It’s safe to say I’m obsessed with this pumpkin spice espresso martini! Sipping on this pumpkin martini while watching a scary movie on a rainy afternoon was truly an elite fall experience. I’m a big fan of trying seasonal drinks at bars, but I think I’ll save a lot of money by making this pumpkin martini recipe at home.” — Haley, busy mom of two and passionate home cook and baker.
Key Ingredient Notes
Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.
- Vodka: I used Absolut, but any middle-of-the-road vodka will work. You could even try a flavored vodka – vanilla, whipped cream, or pumpkin spice if you can find it.
- RumChata: This adds the best creamy, warm spiced flavor. They do make a pumpkin spice version if you want to take it up a notch! You could also use Baileys or Kahlua.
- Espresso: You can also use cold brew or strongly brewed black coffee, but espresso is best for a stronger coffee flavor.
- Pumpkin Puree: Make sure you’re using pure pumpkin puree, NOT pumpkin pie filling. The can should list pumpkin as the only ingredient.
- Half & Half: You can swap this with whole milk or heavy cream, but be warned! Milk won’t be as creamy and heavy cream will make it VERY thick. I find that half & half is the perfect balance.
- Maple Syrup: This adds a little sweetness to help balance all of the bold flavors. Use more or less to taste. A good quality maple syrup is preferred for the best fall flavor, but you can use simple syrup.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Swap this with cinnamon if needed.
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Tips For Making This Pumpkin Espresso Martini
Just a few ingredients, a quick shake, and a chilled glass, this pumpkin espresso martini is ready in under five minutes! Below are a few tips, scroll down to the printable recipe card for full instructions!
If you like a strong drink, try making it with 2 oz vodka. When I first made this martini, I used 2 oz vodka and it overpowered everything else! The next time I used just 1 oz and while still strong, the flavors were perfectly balanced and smooth. Don’t forget there’s also a shot of RumChata added!
Make sure your espresso (or coffee) is completely cooled before adding it to the shaker. If it’s warm, it will melt the ice and water down the drink, leaving you with a weak, flat martini. Brew and chill it ahead of time for the best results.
Start with a tablespoon of maple syrup, but feel free to taste and tweak. Some espressos are more bitter than others, so you might need a touch more or less sweetness depending on your coffee and your preference.
Adding a garnish makes it feel even fancier. A little whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, or a few coffee beans on top adds an instant upgrade.
Can I Make This Pumpkin Martini Ahead?
Sadly once shaken, this martini is best served right away. Over time, the frothy texture will diminish and the ingredients can separate.
However, you can prep it ahead for a party, so you just have to shake it when ready to serve! Combine everything – EXCEPT the ice and espresso – in a sealed pitcher and refrigerate. When ready, pour portions into a shaker with ice and espresso (cooled) and shake to order.
Pumpkin Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- ice cubes
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz RumChata
- 1 oz espresso, or cold brew – chilled or room temperature
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon half & half
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup, more or less to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of pumpkin pie spice, plus more for garnish
- whipped cream, optional garnish
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Instructions
- Add ice (about 5 ice cubes) to a cocktail shaker. Then add the vodka, RumChata, espresso, pumpkin puree, half & half, maple syrup, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Close the lid of the cocktail shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 20 to 30 seconds. Shake the cocktail hard to achieve a frothy top.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass (or a coupe glass). Garnish with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice. Enjoy!
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More Spiced Cocktail Recipes To Try
- Perfect for a party, this apple cider punch is irresistible!
- If you like coffee and spices, you have to try a Carajillo (Mexican coffee cocktail).
- Instant Pot pumpkin apple cider is a cozy fall cocktail that can be served warm or cold.
- Pumpkin coquito is thick, creamy, and deliciously rich.
- A glass of mulled wine is always the perfect way to warm up.
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