Spicy Pumpkin Beer & Tequila Cocktail

If you’re looking for a new pumpkin drink recipe, this spicy pumpkin and tequila cocktail is a nice change from the usual pumpkin spice. Pumpkin beer is as quintessential to autumn as a pumpkin latte. Every year I like to try new pumpkin craft beers if I am visiting any breweries.

We have quite a few on the east coast. So naturally I have had to test out making cocktails with a pumpkin beer. This easy pumpkin beer cocktail has only four ingredients including the beer.

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Blanco or reposado tequila, what’s the difference?

Blanco, reposado and añejo refers to how long the tequila has been aged for. A blanco is only aged up to two months, a reposado is ages for 2-11 months and an añejo is ages for 1-3 years. A tequila reposado will have notes of oak and vanilla which make it a better choice for this autumn cocktail.

What are bitters?

Bitters are like spices for your cocktails. They add flavor and you can add as many or little as you like. Bitters are made from liquor and difference herbs. Many bars make their own and they can also be made at home. You can find a variety of bitters from different brands like Watkins.

What pumpkin beer to use?

There are many different pumpkin beers available from late August and into the winter months. I love trying different local craft beers like Blue Point Mother Pumpkin Ale. Try whatever your favorite pumpkin beer is for the cocktail. Some pumpkin beers have a lot of different spices while others are much more subtle, so it’s just a matter of preference.

How to make a chili syrup

I used a chili syrup from Portland Syrups but you can easily make a spicy syrup at home. If you don’t want to make a syrup but want a little bit of heat in your cocktail you can also infuse the tequila instead.

To make a chili syrup at home you will need 2 cups of water, 2 cups of sugar and the desired amount of peppers.

Add all ingredients to a medium sauce pan and cook over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Let the chili peppers simmer on low for 1-2 minutes. Allow to cool and transfer to a jar or container. Store in refrigerator for up to one month in an air tight container.

If you like spicy syrups you can also try making this Jalapeño Demerara Syrup.

Looking for more fall cocktail recipes? Try this Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew Cocktail or these Apple Cider Mimosas.

Spicy Pumpkin Beer & Tequila Cocktail Recipe