
The Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless classic, celebrated for its simplicity and depth of flavor. But what if we told you that you could elevate this classic drink by adding a touch of fall magic? Today, we’re introducing a delightful twist on the Old Fashioned that’s perfect for the autumn season – the Whiskey and Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through crafting this cozy and aromatic concoction, perfect for sipping by the fireplace or enjoying with friends on a crisp fall evening.
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What is Old Fashioned?
Before we delve into the delightful fusion of whiskey and pumpkin spice, let’s take a moment to appreciate the elegance of the Old Fashioned cocktail. It’s a drink that embodies the very essence of simplicity. Traditionally, an Old Fashioned consists of whiskey or bourbon, sugar, and bitters. This minimalistic approach allows the flavors of the spirits to shine, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
When are pumpkins in season?
Pumpkins are synonymous with autumn, and their season usually begins in late September and extends through November. As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisper, it’s the perfect time to embrace the warmth and earthiness of pumpkin flavors. So, gather some fresh pumpkin puree to infuse that unmistakable autumn essence into your Whiskey and Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned.
How to make pumpkin puree
To incorporate the essence of pumpkin into our Whiskey and Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned, you’ll need to prepare some pumpkin puree. It’s a simple process that adds a layer of richness and warmth to your cocktail. To make pumpkin puree, follow these steps:
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons of pumpkin puree
- 1½ cups sugar
- 1½ cups water
- 6 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.
- Remove from heat and immediately strain through cheesecloth to remove any solid particles.
- Store the homemade pumpkin puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will remain fresh for up to 7 days.
What are bitters?
Bitters are the magical ingredient that adds depth and complexity to classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned. They are intensely flavored extracts made from a combination of herbs, roots, fruits, and spices. Angostura bitters, which we’re using in this recipe, have a distinct, warm, and spicy flavor profile. A few dashes of these aromatic bitters can transform a simple cocktail into a nuanced and memorable experience.
How to make it a mocktail?
For those who prefer a non-alcoholic version of this delicious autumn-inspired drink, you can easily create a Whiskey and Pumpkin Spice Mocktail by using a non-alcoholic whiskey substitute. There are various non-alcoholic whiskey brands available that replicate the flavor and mouthfeel of traditional whiskey without the alcohol content.
Simply replace the 2 oz of whiskey or bourbon with the non-alcoholic version and follow the rest of the recipe as is. You’ll still enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of the pumpkin spice syrup and bitters without the alcohol.
How To Make A Whiskey and Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this delightful autumn cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz whiskey or bourbon
- ½ oz coffee liqueur (Jumping Goat or Mr. Black)
- ¾ oz homemade pumpkin spice syrup
- 3 dashes of Angostura bitters
Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the whiskey or bourbon, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice syrup to the mixing glass.
- Stir gently until the ingredients are well combined and chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a lowball glass filled with ice.
- Finish by adding the three dashes of Angostura bitters on top of the cocktail.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a twist of orange peel to enhance the aroma and presentation.
- Give it a gentle stir before sipping and savoring the warm and comforting flavors of autumn.
Recipe: Whiskey and Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned
Pumpkin Coffee Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey or bourbon
- ½ oz coffee liqueur Jumping Goat or Mr. Black
- ¾ oz homemade pumpkin spice syrup
- 3 dashes of Angostura bitters
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the whiskey or bourbon, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice syrup and stir gently, and strain into another glass with ice.
- Finish by adding the three dashes of Angostura bitters on top of the cocktail.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a twist of orange peel.
The Whiskey and Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned is the perfect fusion of classic cocktail craftsmanship and the rich, earthy flavors of autumn. As pumpkins come into season, this cocktail is a delightful way to celebrate the cozy and festive vibes of fall.
Whether you enjoy it with friends, by the fire, or simply to unwind after a long day, this cocktail brings a taste of autumn right to your glass. And for those who prefer to skip the alcohol, the mocktail version ensures everyone can savor the delicious blend of flavors. So, why not add a touch of pumpkin spice to your Old Fashioned this season and toast to the beauty of autumn? Cheers!
🍹 Home Bar Supplies You Might Need: 🍹
Before you start whipping out the ingredients to make this drink, make sure you have these essential bar tools in your kitchen first (or shop for them here):
More Pumpkin Cocktails to try this fall:
- Pumpkin Martini
- Spicy Pumpkin Margarita Recipe
- Chai Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte (Starbucks Copy)
- Spicy Pumpkin Beer & Tequila Cocktail
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew Cocktail
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