Drinks

Pumpkin Espresso Martini Recipe

ByJulian Dempsey December 22, 2025December 22, 2025

Introduction

The Pumpkin Espresso Martini is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, blending rich espresso with creamy pumpkin flavors. Perfect for fall evenings or festive gatherings, this drink is both indulgent and invigorating.

Two creamy coffee-colored drinks are served in clear cocktail glasses set on a wooden board. Each drink has a generous swirl of white whipped cream on top, sprinkled lightly with cocoa powder. The whipped cream on each drink is decorated with two or three dark brown coffee beans. In the background, there is a white pumpkin, and scattered coffee beans are visible on the wooden board. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Ice cubes (about 5)
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 (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of pumpkin pie spice (plus more for garnish)
Whipped cream (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Add about 5 ice cubes to a cocktail shaker. Then pour in the vodka, RumChata, espresso, pumpkin puree, half & half, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice.
Step 2: Securely close the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds. Shake hard to create a frothy top layer.
Step 3: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini or coupe glass. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor and a rich crema.
Adjust maple syrup to your preferred sweetness level.
For a dairy-free option, substitute half & half with coconut cream or almond milk.
Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg alongside pumpkin pie spice for extra warmth.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately for its frothy texture and fresh flavors. If you need to prepare ahead, keep the mixed ingredients (without shaking or garnishing) refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Shake again before serving.

How to Serve

Two clear martini glasses are filled with a creamy light brown coffee mousse that has a smooth texture. Each glass is topped with a swirl of white whipped cream with a soft, fluffy appearance, sprinkled lightly with fine brown cocoa powder, and decorated with three shiny dark brown coffee beans placed on the whipped cream. The glasses are positioned on a polished wooden surface with scattered coffee beans around, and the background shows a white pumpkin and more glasses placed against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use cold brew instead of espresso?

Yes, cold brew works well and can be used chilled or at room temperature, offering a smoother coffee flavor.

What if I don’t have RumChata?

You can substitute with a cream liqueur like Baileys or even use additional vodka with extra half & half, though the flavor will be slightly different.