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This cozy Pumpkin Spice Mock-tini brings autumn’s warmest flavors to your glass with velvety pumpkin, aromatic spices, and a festive cinnamon-sugar rim. Every sip is like wrapping up in a soft blanket on a crisp fall day, with just the right mix of elegance and comfort. It is alcohol-free so everyone at your table can enjoy its creamy sweetness from brunch to holiday gathering.
The first time I served this at my best friend’s autumn baby shower everyone asked for the recipe and nobody could believe it was alcohol free.
Ingredients
- Milk of choice: adds creaminess You can use dairy almond oat or coconut for a subtle change in flavor and texture
- Pumpkin purée: provides that signature velvety texture and earthy autumn flavor Always choose unsweetened for the best result
- Maple syrup or honey: gives natural sweetness plus a rich depth of taste Real maple syrup makes a difference
- Pumpkin pie spice: creates that classic fall aroma and warmth Opt for a fresh blend to maximize the fragrance
- Vanilla extract: enhances the flavors and rounds out the spice
- A pinch of salt: balances the sweetness and deepens all the other flavors
- For the rim: granulated sugar pairs with ground cinnamon and a touch of salt for the perfect sweet and savory crust Use fine grain sugar so it sticks well
- Maple syrup or simple syrup: helps the rim mixture adhere to your glass Pure maple syrup is especially fragrant
- Toppings: whipped cream for a luscious finish Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg and use a cinnamon stick or star anise for that festive look Edible flowers or mini autumn leaves add an extra special touch if you love to garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Rim:
- Mix together granulated sugar ground cinnamon and salt in a shallow dish The mix should look evenly speckled and aromatic
Moisten the rim of a chilled martini glass using a dab of maple syrup You can use your finger or a small pastry brush for even coverage
Dip the rim of the glass into the dish and rotate it so every part is coated with the cinnamon sugar mixture Set aside to let the rim set up - Prepare the Mocktail Base:
- Combine your milk pumpkin purée maple or honey pumpkin pie spice vanilla and salt in a blender or cocktail shaker
Blend until completely smooth and velvety If using a shaker give it a really vigorous shake to emulsify and foam the mixture
Chill the mixture in the fridge for at least ten minutes for a thick chilled texture Or strain immediately over ice into your rimmed glass if you love it cold and frothy - Garnish to Finish:
- Top the drink with a generous swirl of whipped cream for a creamy crown
Lightly dust the cream with ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic touch
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or star anise for a warm visual accent and that extra autumn scent If you have an edible flower or tiny leaf place it gently on top for a stunning finish
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One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the cinnamon sugar rim It reminds me so much of fall festivals as a kid when everything came dusted in warm spices and sugar My family always gathers in the kitchen to help make the rims and decorate the drinks
Storage Tips
You can make the mocktail base up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge Just shake or stir before serving for best consistency
Wait to add whipped cream and garnishes until right before serving so they stay fresh and beautiful
Ingredient Substitutions
Try vegan whipped topping or skip altogether for a lighter version
Use coconut sugar or turbinado for a more rustic rim
If pumpkin pie spice is unavailable make your own with a blend of cinnamon nutmeg allspice and ginger
Serving Suggestions
This mocktail looks especially inviting served with a breakfast spread including pumpkin muffins or cinnamon rolls
For parties set up a garnish bar so guests can decorate their drinks with cinnamon sticks nutmeg and edible petals
A Touch of Autumn History
Pumpkin spice has roots in North American baking and reminds many of classic harvest time desserts This mocktail is a modern twist on comforting flavors many cultures use to celebrate autumn and family gatherings
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a perfect cinnamon-sugar rim?
Lightly moisten a chilled martini glass rim with maple syrup, then rotate it in a mix of sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt for even coating.
- → Which milk works best for a creamy texture?
Dairy milk gives the silkiest finish, but oat, almond, or coconut milk provide delicious dairy-free alternatives with great texture.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, vary the maple syrup or substitute with honey or agave to suit your preferred level of sweetness in the drink.
- → What can I use for garnish options?
Top with whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg, and add a cinnamon stick, star anise, or even an edible flower for flair.
- → How should I serve this drink for gatherings?
Serve chilled in martini glasses with decorated rims, and present on a wood tabletop with autumn-inspired accents for an inviting touch.
- → Can this drink be made ahead of time?
The base can be blended in advance and chilled; simply rim the glasses and garnish just before serving for best results.