Maple Pumpkin Old Fashioned: A Cozy Twist on a Timeless Classic

The Maple Pumpkin Old Fashioned is the ultimate fall-inspired riff on one of the most iconic cocktails ever created. At its core, the Old Fashioned is a whiskey-first drink, softened by sweetness and lifted by bitters. This seasonal take leans into autumn with pumpkin purée and maple syrup, creating a cocktail that feels like sipping liquid pumpkin pie—without overwhelming the bourbon’s bold character.

Rich, spiced, and just a touch sweet, it’s a cocktail meant for slow sipping by the fire, holiday gatherings, or after-dinner relaxation. If you already love a classic Old Fashioned, this one keeps the sophistication but adds a festive, cozy upgrade.

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Quick Facts: Maple Pumpkin Old Fashioned

Method: stirred
Flavor profile: rich, spiced, warming
How to serve it: over ice (preferably a large cube)
Glassware: rocks glass
Alcohol content: ~25–28% ABV, ~22–25 grams alcohol per serving

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Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (rye works too for more spice)
• ½ oz maple syrup (dark, Grade A preferred)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters (optional)
• Garnish: orange peel, cinnamon stick, or star anise
• Ice (large cube ideal)

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Ingredient Notes

Bourbon:
Choose a caramel-forward bourbon that stands up to the richness:

• Woodford Reserve (balanced vanilla + spice)
• Buffalo Trace (rounded and smooth)
• Wild Turkey 101 (bold and spicy, for a punchier cocktail)

Maple Syrup:
Go for pure, dark maple syrup—its earthy sweetness complements pumpkin and whiskey perfectly.

Pumpkin Purée:
Use real pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling). If you want an even smoother drink, shake the pumpkin purée with the maple syrup first before adding.

Bitters:

• Angostura is classic and provides warm spice.
• Add orange bitters for brightness or mole bitters for depth.

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Equipment Needed

• Mixing glass
• Bar spoon
• Jigger
• Strainer (fine mesh optional)
• Rocks glass
• Citrus peeler

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine pumpkin and maple.
In a mixing glass, stir pumpkin purée and maple syrup until smooth.

2. Add spirits and bitters.
Pour in bourbon and bitters. Add ice to the mixing glass.

3. Stir.
Stir gently for 20–25 seconds, chilling and diluting slightly.

4. Strain.
Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube of ice. For an ultra-smooth texture, double strain to catch any pumpkin solids.

5. Garnish.
Express an orange peel over the glass and drop it in. Add a cinnamon stick or star anise for festive flair.

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Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

The Maple Pumpkin Old Fashioned is layered and indulgent yet still balanced:

• First sip: Bourbon warmth with spice from the bitters
• Mid-palate: Pumpkin creaminess and maple sweetness
• Finish: Citrus oil brightness with lingering cinnamon-clove spice

Mouthfeel: Silky and rich, slightly fuller-bodied than a traditional Old Fashioned thanks to the pumpkin.

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Garnishing and Presentation

Glassware:
A short, heavy-bottomed rocks glass showcases the drink’s deep amber hue.

Garnish ideas:

• Orange peel twist for citrus lift
• Cinnamon stick stirrer for aroma
• Star anise pod for elegance
• Dehydrated orange wheel for a modern garnish

Pro tip: Torch the cinnamon stick briefly before garnishing for a warm, aromatic smoke effect.

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Pairing Suggestions

This cocktail pairs beautifully with autumn-inspired dishes and desserts:

Savory pairings:

• Roast pork with apple glaze
• Butternut squash risotto
• Sharp cheddar or gouda
• Charcuterie with prosciutto and figs

Sweet pairings:

• Pumpkin pie (of course!)
• Pecan bars
• Dark chocolate truffles
• Gingerbread cookies

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Cocktail History and Trivia

The Old Fashioned is often considered the first true cocktail, dating back to the early 1800s when spirits, sugar, bitters, and water defined the genre. This maple-pumpkin riff is a modern seasonal creation, marrying classic American whiskey culture with fall’s favorite flavors.

Pumpkin in cocktails has been around longer than you might think—early American punches and nogs often included squash or pumpkin, making this twist feel both trendy and rooted in tradition.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve the Maple Pumpkin Old Fashioned:

• As a signature cocktail at fall dinner parties or Thanksgiving gatherings
• As an after-dinner drink, replacing dessert
• By the fire, on chilly autumn nights
• In cocktail flights, alongside a classic Old Fashioned and a Smoked Maple Bourbon Sour

Batching tip (for 6 servings):

• 12 oz bourbon
• 3 oz maple syrup
• 6 tbsp pumpkin purée
• 12 dashes Angostura bitters
  Stir well, chill, and strain into a decanter. Pour over ice and garnish individually.

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Alcohol Content and Alternatives

At ~25–28% ABV, this is a robust cocktail, though softened by maple and pumpkin.

To reduce strength:

• Use 1½ oz bourbon and add ½ oz apple cider
• Serve over crushed ice for more dilution

Non-alcoholic version:

• 2 oz non-alcoholic bourbon (e.g., Spiritless Kentucky 74 or Lyre’s)
• ½ oz maple syrup
• 1 tbsp pumpkin purée
• 2 dashes NA bitters
  Stir with ice, strain, and garnish the same way.

Other variations:

• Smoky Pumpkin Old Fashioned: Add a splash of mezcal or peated Scotch
• Nutty Pumpkin Old Fashioned: Replace maple syrup with orgeat (almond syrup)
• Chocolate Pumpkin Old Fashioned: Add a dash of chocolate bitters

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the pumpkin purée make the drink thick?
It adds a little body, but stirring well and straining keeps it silky. For extra smoothness, shake the pumpkin with maple first before mixing.

Can I make it without maple syrup?
Yes—honey or brown sugar syrup works, but maple has the best fall character.

What’s the best bourbon for this cocktail?
A balanced bourbon with vanilla and caramel notes works best. Avoid overly oaky or smoky bottles unless you want a bolder drink.

Do I need to double strain?
Not required, but recommended for a cleaner presentation if your pumpkin isn’t ultra-smooth.

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Conclusion

The Maple Pumpkin Old Fashioned is the perfect seasonal spin on a true classic—rich, balanced, and full of autumn charm. It manages to honor the timeless Old Fashioned structure while adding just enough pumpkin and maple to make it festive, approachable, and downright delicious.