Pumpkin spice is usually associated with warm lattes and baked treats, but it also makes a surprisingly delicious cocktail. Pumpkin Spice Spritz combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin with sparkling wine and a light aperitif, creating a refreshing drink that’s perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday brunches, or relaxing evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 oz pumpkin spice syrup
- 2 oz Aperol (or another orange aperitif)
- 3 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
- 1 oz sparkling water or club soda
- Ice cubes
For Garnish
- Orange slice
- Cinnamon stick
- Star anise (optional)
- Pumpkin pie spice for rimming the glass (optional)
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Syrup
Ingredients
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Method
- Combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, water, and pumpkin pie spice in a saucepan.
- Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Strain through a fine sieve if you prefer a smoother syrup.
- Allow it to cool completely before using.
How to Make the Pumpkin Spice Spritz
- Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the pumpkin spice syrup.
- Add the Aperol.
- Top with chilled Prosecco.
- Finish with sparkling water.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish with an orange slice, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice if desired.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Spritz
- Use well-chilled Prosecco for maximum fizz.
- Adjust the amount of pumpkin syrup depending on your preferred sweetness.
- Freshly made pumpkin spice syrup offers the richest flavor.
- Serve immediately after mixing to preserve the bubbles.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace the Aperol and Prosecco with sparkling apple cider and soda water.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cocktail with:
- Pumpkin bread
- Cheese boards
- Roasted nuts
- Apple pie
- Cinnamon cookies
- Caramel desserts
The Bottom Line
Pumpkin Spice Spritz is a refreshing take on classic fall flavors. The combination of homemade pumpkin spice syrup, sparkling wine, and citrusy aperitif creates a light, bubbly cocktail that’s both cozy and elegant. Whether you’re hosting an autumn party or simply enjoying the changing season, this festive drink is sure to become a favorite.