Best Pumpkin Spice Margarita Recipe — cozy fall flavor in a glass

The minute sweater weather hits, I swap my usual Marg for this Pumpkin Spice Margarita. It’s smooth tequila, real pumpkin purée, bright citrus, and a warm spiced rim that tastes like the first slice of pie—only cooler and way easier to sip at a fall party or Thanksgiving pre-dinner hang.

Bloggers I love lean into the same combo: reposado tequila for a round, caramelly vibe, orange liqueur for lift, and either a pumpkin spice syrup or a quick brown-sugar cinnamon syrup to tie it all together.

It has everything I love: smooth tequila, a splash of citrus, a touch of sweetness, and that warm pumpkin spice kick that screams autumn.

I’ll be honest—when I first tried making a pumpkin margarita, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. But the pumpkin purée blends beautifully, and the cinnamon sugar rim takes it to the next level.

Here’s what makes this version click for home cooks: no fancy tools, just a shaker or a jar with a lid. A pumpkin pie–spice or cinnamon-sugar rim adds that dessert-like finish, and you can keep it on the rocks or blitz it with ice for a frozen twist.

Several top recipes use pumpkin purée (not pie filling), fresh lime, and Cointreau or triple sec—simple moves that keep the drink bright, not

If you’re a pumpkin spice fan but want something refreshing, this hits the sweet spot: cozy, citrusy, and party-ready in minutes. I’ll walk you through the spiced syrup, the just-right ratios, and my favorite garnish trick so your first batch tastes bar-quality on the first pour.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Margarita?

• It’s a fun fall cocktail that’s different from the usual pumpkin spice latte.
• No fancy bar tools—just a shaker or jar with a lid, and you’re good to go.
• Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall parties, or a cozy night in.
• Sweet, spiced, and citrusy—your taste buds will thank you.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Margarita Recipe?

Recipe Overview

This pumpkin spice margarita recipe is a fall cocktail made with tequila, pumpkin purée, warm spices, citrus, and a spiced sugar rim. It’s easy to shake up and feels festive for any fall gathering.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for syrup)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired / Seasonal Fall Drink
• Course: Cocktail / Drinks
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Yield: 2 drinks
• Calories per Serving: ~210
• Serving Size: 1 margarita

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Cocktail shaker (or mason jar with lid)
• Small saucepan (for syrup)
• Glasses (rocks glasses or margarita glasses)
• Small plate (for rim sugar)

Ingredients

For the Spiced Rim:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

For the Margarita:

• 2 oz Reposado Tequila
• 1 oz Cointreau (or triple sec)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 1 part lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin purée
• ½ part simple syrup (see below)
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• Ice
• Apple slices for garnish

For Homemade Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Ingredient Notes

• Tequila: I recommend a smooth Reposado tequila because it pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice flavors.
• Pumpkin Purée: Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. This keeps the flavor balanced and not overly sweet.
• Cointreau/Triple Sec: Adds a nice citrus kick that brightens the drink.
• Simple Syrup: Making it with brown sugar and cinnamon gives extra fall flavor. You can use regular simple syrup if you’re short on time.
• Apple Garnish: Thin apple slices not only look pretty but add a crisp fall touch.

Instructions

1. Make the Cinnamon Syrup:

• In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
• Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves. Let cool before using.

2. Prepare the Glass Rim:

• On a small plate, mix sugar and pumpkin pie spice.
• Dip the rim of each glass into maple syrup, then roll in the spiced sugar mixture.

3. Shake the Margarita:

• In a shaker filled with ice, add tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, lemon juice, pumpkin purée, cinnamon, and simple syrup.
• Shake well until everything is smooth and chilled.

4. Pour and Garnish:

• Strain into prepared glasses filled with ice.
• Garnish with apple slices and a light sprinkle of cinnamon if you’d like.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: ~210
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

Tips and Variations

✔️ Make it Frozen: Blend all ingredients with ice for a frozen pumpkin spice margarita.

✔️ Switch the Tequila: Blanco tequila works too, but Reposado adds warmth.

✔️ No Pumpkin Purée? Use pumpkin spice syrup for a quicker version.

✔️ Mocktail Version: Skip the tequila and triple sec, and add sparkling water for a pumpkin spice margarita mocktail.

✔️ Spiced Rim Alternatives: Use cinnamon sugar or even graham cracker crumbs for a pie-like touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with chips and guacamole for a fun appetizer spread.
• Serve at Thanksgiving alongside your favorite fall dishes.
• Dress it up with a cinnamon stick stirrer for extra autumn vibes.

Storing Tips

The cinnamon syrup keeps for up to 1 week in the fridge. Margaritas are best made fresh, but you can mix the base (without ice) a few hours in advance and store in the fridge. Just shake before serving.

Helpful Tips

❖ Don’t skip the rim—it really makes the flavor pop.

❖ Shake longer than you think—pumpkin purée needs a good mix to blend smoothly.

❖ Chill your glasses for an extra refreshing drink.

This recipe makes two margaritas, but you can easily scale it up for a pitcher if you’re serving a crowd.

FAQs

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a festive fall drink that’s fun, refreshing, and full of flavor, this Pumpkin Spice Margarita is the one to try. It’s the perfect mix of tequila, citrus, and cozy pumpkin spice flavors that will warm up your fall nights.

I’d love to hear if you make this recipe—leave me a comment below or tag me on Facebook with your pumpkin margarita drink. Cheers to fall and to trying something new! 🎃🍹