If you’re ready for a cocktail that feels like all the best things about fall wrapped up in a glass, look no further than the Pumpkin Spice White Russian. This decadent twist on the classic White Russian takes cozy pumpkin spice flavors, the smoothness of vodka, a touch of coffee liqueur, and the optional indulgence of rich whipped cream, all united by a festive sugar-and-spice rim. It’s a drink you’ll crave on chilly evenings, a show-stopper for autumn gatherings, and just the thing to make happy hour feel downright magical.

Pumpkin Spice White Russian Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together a Pumpkin Spice White Russian couldn’t be simpler, and it’s the ingredients that make it so special. Each one lends just the right flavor, texture, and autumn vibe, so you’ll want to use the highest quality you can find for maximum deliciousness.

Vodka: This is the base spirit, so choose one that’s smooth and clean—it won’t overpower the drink’s luscious flavors.
Coffee Liqueur (like Kahlua): Brings a rich, roasty sweetness that is absolutely essential for a true White Russian experience with a fall twist.
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer: This is where all the creamy, spicy autumn flavor comes in, instantly transforming your cocktail.
Heavy Whipped Cream (optional): For an ultra-decadent, silky texture that floats beautifully atop your drink. Optional, but so worth it!
Pumpkin Spice: Just a pinch adds warmth and that unmistakable pumpkin spice fragrance right into the drink.
Whipped Cream (garnish): A generous dollop takes your presentation over the top and adds a dessert-like finish.
Simple Syrup or Corn Syrup: Used to coat the rim so your sugar-and-spice mixture sticks—totally optional, but incredibly festive.
Pumpkin Spice (for rim): Mix this into your rim sugar for more fragrance in every sip.
Sugar (for rim): Gives a sweet crunch and a holiday sparkle to the very first taste.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice White Russian

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Rim

Start by mixing a teaspoon of sugar and a teaspoon of pumpkin spice together in a shallow bowl or on a small plate—think a classic saucer from your favorite coffee mug set. This is the secret to building that golden, festive rim that looks stunning and adds just the right hint of sweet spice to every sip.

Step 2: Get Your Glass Ready

Pour your simple syrup or corn syrup onto another small plate. Take your lowball or old fashioned glass and gently roll its rim in the syrup so it gets a thin, sticky coating. Immediately roll the rim in the sugar-pumpkin spice mixture for a gorgeous edge of flavor and sparkle. Once the rim is perfectly dressed, fill the glass with ice.

Step 3: Mix Up the Cocktail

Grab your cocktail shaker and add the vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin spice coffee creamer, and just a pinch of pumpkin spice for extra warmth. Add a handful of ice cubes—enough to chill, but not dilute. Give it a vigorous shake until the outside of the shaker is icy cold. You’ll be able to feel the chill spreading to your hands!

Step 4: Strain and Serve

Strain the Pumpkin Spice White Russian into your ice-filled, rimmed glass. The color will be a luscious creamy caramel with tiny flecks of spice—pure autumn in a cup!

Step 5: Garnish Like a Pro

Now for the finishing touch: top your masterpiece with a generous swirl of whipped cream. You can even sprinkle a little extra pumpkin spice over the top if you’re feeling fancy. Sip and savor every drop of this comforting, cozy cocktail.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice White Russian

Garnishes

For that picture-perfect finish, there’s nothing like a swirl of fluffy whipped cream on your Pumpkin Spice White Russian. A sprinkle of pumpkin spice (or even a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg) is a great way to bring even more fragrance and color. If you want to go all out, try a cinnamon stick stirrer or a few espresso beans on top for a touch of drama.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Spice White Russian with all the classic fall treats! Think spiced cookies, pumpkin bread, chocolate truffles, or even a slice of rich carrot cake. Savory snacks like roasted nuts or a sharp cheddar cheese board make an unexpectedly fabulous combo by taming the cocktail’s sweetness and adding a touch of crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by serving Pumpkin Spice White Russians in unique glassware—try copper mugs for extra chill or vintage teacups for a quirky twist. For gatherings, set up a DIY bar with different creamers, spices, and toppings so everyone can build their own personalized drink. Don’t forget pretty paper straws or fun cocktail picks for the full festive vibe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Pumpkin Spice White Russian (it happens, especially if you batch for a crowd), simply pour the leftovers into a jar or airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during storage.

Freezing

While it’s not typical to freeze cocktails like these, you can turn your Pumpkin Spice White Russian into a grown-up frozen treat! Pour any leftovers into ice cube trays and freeze. Later, blend the cubes to make a frostier, slushie-style version of the cocktail—the ultimate boozy dessert for fall.

Reheating

Since the Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a chilled cocktail, you’ll want to avoid reheating it. But if your drink has gotten too cold or frosty, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying. For a totally different twist, you could gently warm the mix (without ice or whipped cream) on the stove and serve it as a cozy, spiked latte!

FAQs

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of Pumpkin Spice White Russian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the vodka and coffee liqueur for decaf cold brew coffee or a splash of brewed espresso, and use the pumpkin spice creamer and whipped cream as usual. It’s just as decadent and perfect for all ages.

What if I can’t find pumpkin spice coffee creamer?

No worries—simply use regular coffee creamer or half-and-half, and add a bit more pumpkin spice and a teaspoon of pure pumpkin puree for extra flavor. It’s a little more DIY, but absolutely delicious.

How can I make it vegan?

You can easily make a vegan Pumpkin Spice White Russian by using plant-based vodka and coffee liqueur (some brands are vegan-friendly), dairy-free pumpkin spice creamer, and coconut whipped cream for garnish. All the same flavor, totally plant-based.

Can I batch this cocktail for a party?

Yes! Combine all liquid ingredients in a pitcher (leaving out ice and whipped cream) and chill until ready to serve. Just rim the glasses, pour over ice, and top with whipped cream before handing to your guests. Perfect for festive get-togethers!

Is there a way to make it less sweet?

If you prefer your cocktails on the less-sweet side, simply reduce the amount of creamer and skip the sugar rim. You can also let your guests sweeten their own drinks to taste—everyone leaves happy!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing cocktail that delivers pure fall magic in every sip, you must give the Pumpkin Spice White Russian a try. It’s irresistibly creamy, packed with comforting spices, and sure to become your go-to twist on a classic. Grab your shaker and get cozy—cheers to pumpkin spice season!

Pumpkin Spice White Russian Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Spice White Russian cocktail that combines the warmth of vodka and coffee liqueur with the seasonal delight of pumpkin spice and rich creaminess. It’s a festive twist on a classic drink that’s perfect for autumn gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Vodka White Russian:

1.5 ounces Vodka (one shot)
1.5 ounces Coffee Liqueur (like Kahlua, one shot)
2 ounces Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer

Garnish:

1 ounce Heavy Whipped Cream (optional)
1 pinch Pumpkin Spice
Whipped Cream (garnish)
1 teaspoon Simple Syrup or Corn Syrup
1 teaspoon Pumpkin Spice
1 teaspoon Sugar (for rim)

Instructions

Mix Sugar and Spice: Combine a teaspoon of sugar and a teaspoon of pumpkin spice in a shallow bowl.
Prepare Glass: Coat the rim of a low ball or old-fashioned glass with simple syrup, then dip it in the sugar mixture and fill with ice.
Shake Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, Kahlua, creamer, and pumpkin spice. Shake with ice until chilled.
Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass and top with whipped cream.