Pumpkin Spice Brandy Cocktail

If you’re searching for a signature cocktail to serve this fall, this Pumpkin Spice Brandy Cocktail is it. Made with real pumpkin syrup, smooth brandy, and a touch of citrus, it’s a drink that’s both comforting and unique. It’s easy, seasonal, and full of autumn charm.

When fall rolls around, I find myself craving drinks that are equal parts cozy and refreshing. That’s where this Pumpkin Spice Brandy Cocktail comes in. This autumn libation is packed with seasonal flavor, thanks to the brandy and an easy homemade pumpkin syrup. It’s simple to shake up, and the results are deliciously autumnal.

What I love about this drink is that it’s both refreshing and comforting. The lemon juice brightens it up while the pumpkin and spice add warmth, making it perfect for those early autumn days when you want something crisp but still full of cozy flavor. The combination is layered and dynamic, with each element bringing out the best in the others.

I also appreciate that this recipe includes real pumpkin in the homemade syrup, giving it a richness that feels extra special. Altogether, this cocktail is a win, and I think you’ll “fall” for it just as much as I have. Cheers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s the perfect balance of cozy and refreshing. The brandy and pumpkin spice syrup bring warmth and comfort, while the fresh lemon juice adds brightness and a crisp finish. That’s why this drink is ideal for fall gatherings, whether the weather is still a bit warm or you’re curled up on a cool evening.
• The flavors are layered and dynamic. Brandy brings depth, orange liqueur adds a subtle citrusy sweetness, lemon juice keeps things lively, and the pumpkin spice ties it all together. 
• It’s simple but impressive. Even though it looks and tastes like something you’d order at a cocktail bar, it comes together quickly at home with just a few ingredients. A sugared rim and a pretty coupe glass add that extra touch of special! 

Looking for more festive fall cocktail recipes? You’ve got it. Check out this collection of my best autumn cocktails. There’s something for everyone! 

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s discuss the ingredients you’ll need for this fall cocktail recipe. I’ll walk you through what I used below. 

• Brandy – A smooth, warming spirit that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and spice.  I used a  locally made apple brandy, but any good-quality brandy you enjoy will suffice.
• Orange liqueur – Adds a touch of sweetness and bright citrus flavor that enhances both the brandy and the pumpkin spice notes.
• Lemon – Brings a refreshing, zesty balance to the cocktail, keeping it from becoming too heavy and rounding out the flavors.
• Pumpkin Syrup – Below, I will show you how to make this delicious homemade syrup using real pumpkin puree and warm spices. This syrup gives the drink its signature autumn flavor and a hint of richness.
• Sugar and pumpkin pie spice – Used to rim the glass, this mixture adds sweetness and an aromatic kick with every sip, making the cocktail feel extra special.

How To Make

And with that, we’re ready to shake up this Pumpkin Spice Brandy Cocktail. Let’s get to it. I’ll walk you through the steps below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card below. 

1. To make the pumpkin syrup, combine the brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat just until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to boil, four to six minutes. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the pumpkin puree and salt until smooth. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla. Allow the syrup to cool completely.
2. On a small plate, stir together the sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Run a lemon wedge around the edge of a coupe glass to moisten, then dip the rim in the sugar mixture to coat.

3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the brandy, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and pumpkin syrup. Shake vigorously until thoroughly chilled. Strain into the prepared glass and serve right away.

And that’s it! All that’s left to do is serve, sip, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pumpkin syrup ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely. The syrup can be prepared a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using.

Can I make a batch for a party?

Yes, this cocktail can easily be scaled up. Mix the brandy, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and pumpkin syrup in a pitcher without ice. Keep it chilled, then shake individual portions with ice before serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is best for this recipe because it adds brightness and balance that bottled juice can’t quite match. I always avoid bottled lemon juice whenever possible.

More Fall Cocktails You’ll Love

• Caramel Apple Martini
• Pumpkin Spice White Russians
• Apple Cider Mulled Wine
• Caramel Apple Moscow Mule
• Maple Martini

This easy Pumpkin Spice Brandy Cocktail captures everything I love about autumn in one glass. I know you’ll enjoy it too. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a casual get-together with friends, or just sipping solo while enjoying the changing leaves, this cocktail will add a little seasonal magic to your glass.

Once you give this dip a try, I’d love to know what you think. Please stop back and leave a comment and a 5-star rating below. 

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Pumpkin Spice Brandy Cocktail

If you’re searching for a signature cocktail to serve this fall, this Pumpkin Spice Brandy Cocktail is it. Made with real pumpkin syrup, smooth brandy, and a touch of citrus, it’s a drink that’s both comforting and unique. It’s easy, seasonal, and full of autumn charm.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: brandy, cocktail, pumpkin, pumpkin spice

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 1

Calories: 238kcal

Ingredients

Pumpkin Syrup

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• ½ cup pumpkin puree
• ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Cocktail

• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 lemon wedge plus ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1½ ounces brandy
• ¾ ounce orange liqueur such as Cointreau
• 1 ounce Pumpkin Syrup

Instructions

• To make the pumpkin syrup, combine the brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat just until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to boil, four to six minutes. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the pumpkin puree and salt until smooth. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla. Allow the syrup to cool completely.
• On a small plate, stir together the sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Run a lemon wedge around the edge of a coupe glass to moisten, then dip the rim in the sugar mixture to coat.
• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the brandy, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and pumpkin syrup. Shake vigorously until thoroughly chilled. Strain into the prepared glass and serve right away. Sip and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 238kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 9mg | Potassium: 99mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 1549IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 1mg