Baileys pumpkin spice martini: A Seasonal Cocktail with a Cozy Twist
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.
In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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Why Pumpkin Spice Belongs in a Martini
Pumpkin spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, often allspice) pairs naturally with real pumpkin puree—which brings body and gentle sweetness—while vodka adds a neutral backbone and cream liqueur delivers dessert-like richness. Done right, this cocktail is silky, aromatic, and balanced (not cloying).
The Perfect Pumpkin Spice Martini (Australian Measurements)
Ingredients (per serve):
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45 mL vodka (vanilla vodka if you like it sweeter)
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30 mL pumpkin spice liqueur or pumpkin-flavoured cream liqueur
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15 mL Baileys Irish Cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
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30 mL pumpkin puree (canned 100% pumpkin or homemade; see tips)
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15 mL simple syrup or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
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15 mL thickened cream or half-and-half
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Pinch of pumpkin spice blend
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Ice
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Garnish: cinnamon stick or grated nutmeg
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Optional rim: honey or maple + crushed graham crackers/biscuits
Method:
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Prep the glass (optional): Rim a chilled martini or coupe with honey/maple, then dip into crushed grahams for a pie-crust effect.
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Build & shake: In a shaker, add vodka, pumpkin spice liqueur, Baileys (if using), pumpkin puree, syrup, cream, and a pinch of spice. Add plenty of ice and shake hard for 15–20 seconds until frothy and cold.
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Strain: Fine strain into your chilled glass for a satin-smooth texture.
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Finish: Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a light dusting of nutmeg. Optionally, a small dollop of whipped cream for a dessert finish.
RSA note (AU): Depending on liqueur choices, this serve is typically ~1.6–2.0 standard drinks. Enjoy responsibly.
Bartender Tips (Texture, Balance, and Aroma)
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Emulsify like a pro: The puree and cream need vigorous shaking to integrate—aim for a thick, glossy foam.
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Sweetness control: Start with 15 mL syrup; add 5 mL more only if needed. Remember your cream and liqueurs already bring sweetness.
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Spice restraint: A pinch goes a long way. Over-spicing adds bitterness; let the garnish finish the aroma.
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Fine strain always: Removes pulp and ice shards for a glossy, café-quality finish.
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Real pumpkin puree: If using homemade, cook off moisture (see below) for better texture and stability
Make-Ahead Upgrades
Quick Pumpkin Spice Syrup (better suspension, easier batching)
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Ingredients: 200 g sugar, 200 mL water, 2 heaped tsp pumpkin spice.
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Method: Simmer 3–4 minutes, cool, fine strain. Keeps 2 weeks refrigerated.
Use 15–20 mL per drink and you can reduce/omit the dry spice pinch in the shaker.
Silky Homemade Pumpkin Puree
Roast pumpkin (skin-on wedges) at 200°C until tender, scoop, then blend and simmer 5–7 minutes to reduce water. Cool before use. This prevents separation and yields a richer mouthfeel.
Variations You’ll Love
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Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini: Add 30 mL cold brew or espresso; reduce syrup by 5–10 mL.
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Chocolate Pumpkin Pie: Add 15 mL dark crème de cacao; garnish with shaved chocolate.
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Bourbon Pumpkin: Swap vodka for 45 mL bourbon for vanilla-oak warmth.
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Maple Pecan: Use maple syrup and a pecan-rim (crushed pecans + sugar).
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Light & Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream (15 mL); skip Baileys and cream.
Troubleshooting (Fast Fixes)
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Too thick: Add 10–15 mL milk/cream and shake again.
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Too sweet: Add 10 mL more vodka or a squeeze of lemon; or dial the syrup back next round.
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Separating: You didn’t shake hard enough—re-shake vigorously with fresh ice.
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Not “pumpkin” enough: Your puree is watery; reduce it or add 5 mL more pumpkin spice syrup.
Food Pairings
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Entrées: Roast pumpkin & goat’s cheese tart; maple-glazed bacon bites.
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Mains: Roast turkey or chicken with herb stuffing; pork loin with apple.
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Desserts: Pumpkin pie (of course), sticky date pudding, ginger snaps, pecan tart.
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Snacks: Spiced popcorn, candied pecans, dark chocolate squares.
FAQs
Can I batch it for a party?
Yes. Combine all ingredients except ice in a jug (multiply by guest count), refrigerate. Shake/strain individual serves to keep the foam plush.
Pumpkin spice liqueur vs Baileys—do I need both?
No. The liqueur brings spice; Baileys brings creaminess. Use either—or both for a richer, dessert-style profile.
My shaker clogged—help!
Fine strain and don’t over-pack with puree. If needed, pre-dilute puree with a splash of cream before adding to the shaker.
Can I make a mocktail?
Absolutely. Use 60 mL pumpkin spice syrup, 30 mL pumpkin puree, 30 mL cream or coconut cream, shake with ice, strain, and top with a 30 mL splash of milk for body.
Thanks for joining us behind the bar!
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/
Check out more :
The Tequila Sunrise
The Bellini Cocktail
The Martini
Blue Lagoon
Baileys Pumpkin Spice Martini
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