The Pumpkin Aperol Margarita is a delightful fall twist on the classic margarita, combining the bittersweet flavors of Aperol with rich, spiced pumpkin. It’s a perfect cocktail for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving parties, or whenever you’re craving a cozy, seasonal drink. This margarita is sweet, tangy, and perfectly spiced, making it an irresistible choice!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz tequila reposado
- ½ oz Aperol
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz pumpkin purée
- ½ oz maple syrup
- 1 oz orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau)
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon sugar for rimming the glass (optional)
- Pumpkin pie spice for garnish
- Lime wedge for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the Glass:
Rim a margarita glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into a mixture of cinnamon sugar for an autumnal touch. Set aside. - Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker, add the tequila, Aperol, lime juice, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, and orange liqueur. Fill with ice and shake vigorously until well combined. - Serve:
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice. - Garnish:
Sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice over the top and garnish with a lime wedge. - Enjoy:
Sip this fall-inspired margarita and enjoy the rich flavors of pumpkin with the bittersweet notes of Aperol and the classic tang of a margarita.
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Variations
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute the tequila and Aperol with sparkling water or club soda, and add extra pumpkin purée and maple syrup to maintain the seasonal flavor.
- Spiced Rim Alternative: If you prefer something different, try rimming the glass with ground ginger and sugar instead of cinnamon sugar.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamy twist, add a splash of coconut cream or a small amount of milk to the shaker before mixing.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin purée?
Yes! Canned pumpkin purée works perfectly for this recipe, just be sure to use plain purée and not pumpkin pie filling, which is sweetened.
How do I make a large batch?
To make a large batch, multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed. Mix everything in a pitcher and chill in the fridge. When ready to serve, pour into rimmed glasses with ice.
What other flavors can I add?
Feel free to experiment with fall spices like nutmeg or cloves to enhance the pumpkin flavor. A splash of apple cider can also add a delicious twist.
Pumpkin Aperol Margarita
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Aperol Margarita is the perfect fall-inspired twist on a classic cocktail. Combining the bitter citrus flavor of Aperol with the sweetness of pumpkin puree, this margarita is a cozy and refreshing drink. It’s ideal for autumn gatherings or simply enjoying the flavors of the season. The earthy pumpkin notes pair beautifully with tequila and lime, making it a must-try for any margarita lover.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Tequila (blanco or reposado)
- 1 oz Aperol
- 1 oz Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 oz Pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 1 oz Simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Pumpkin pie spice (optional for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Salt or sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lime wedge (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the glass: Rim your margarita glass with lime juice and dip it into salt or sugar, depending on your preference.
- Mix the ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, Aperol, lime juice, pumpkin puree, and simple syrup. Add ice cubes and shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Serve: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top and garnish with a lime wedge. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup according to your taste.
- For a stronger pumpkin flavor, you can increase the amount of pumpkin puree slightly, but be cautious as it can thicken the drink.
- To make a batch, multiply the ingredients and shake in batches or stir in a large pitcher.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 12mg
- Sodium: 5g