This Pumpkin Aperol Margarita is a fall-inspired twist on the classic margarita, combining the smooth, slightly bitter flavor of Aperol with the rich, cozy notes of pumpkin and spices. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy as the weather cools down, offering a unique mix of citrus, warmth, and a touch of autumnal sweetness. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just want to sip something seasonal, this cocktail will bring all the cozy vibes to your gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of Aperol and pumpkin is unexpected but works beautifully together. The Aperol adds a bittersweet, citrusy layer, while the pumpkin puree and warm spices give this margarita its signature fall flavor. It’s refreshing yet comforting, and perfect for sipping on crisp autumn evenings. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring a bit of pumpkin spice to your cocktail repertoire!

Ingredients

Here’s a look at what you’ll need to make this delicious and unique drink:

Aperol
Tequila (silver or blanco)
Fresh lime juice
Pumpkin puree
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger for spice
Simple syrup or agave syrup for sweetness
Salt or cinnamon-sugar for rimming the glass
Ice
Find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

Begin by preparing your glass. To rim the glass, rub a lime wedge along the edge and dip it into a mix of salt and cinnamon-sugar.
In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of tequila, 1 ounce of Aperol, 1 ounce of pumpkin puree, ¾ ounce of lime juice, ½ ounce of simple syrup (or agave syrup), and a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of lime, and enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Fresh pumpkin puree: For the best flavor, use fresh pumpkin puree or canned puree with no added sugar.
Adjust the sweetness: Taste your margarita before serving—if you like it sweeter, add a little more simple syrup or agave.
Chill your glass: For an extra touch, chill your glass in the freezer before serving to keep your drink cold longer.
Make it spicier: Add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

No Aperol? If you don’t have Aperol, try substituting with another orange liqueur like Triple Sec or Cointreau for a slightly different flavor profile.
Vegan version: Use agave syrup instead of honey for a completely vegan-friendly drink.
Pumpkin spice: If you don’t have individual spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, use pre-made pumpkin spice blend to save time.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Pumpkin Aperol Margarita pairs perfectly with fall dishes like roasted butternut squash, turkey, and caramelized Brussels sprouts. It’s also great with appetizers like goat cheese crostini, pumpkin soup, or spicy jalapeño poppers. Serve with a side of salted tortilla chips or a warm cinnamon roll for extra autumn flavor!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to make it ahead of time, mix the tequila, Aperol, pumpkin puree, lime juice, and spices in advance. Keep the mixture in the fridge, and just shake with ice and sweetener right before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin mixture ahead of time. Just add the ice and shake right before serving to keep it cold and fresh.

2. Can I use flavored tequila?
Flavored tequila, like cinnamon or vanilla, can work well with this drink and add a fun twist. Just adjust the sweetness level if the tequila is already flavored.

3. Can I use a different type of pumpkin?
You can use canned pumpkin or roasted fresh pumpkin. Just make sure it’s smooth and pureed. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains extra sugar and spices.

4. Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?
To make a mocktail version, replace the tequila and Aperol with a combination of orange juice and soda water. Add the pumpkin puree and spices, and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Aperol Margarita is the perfect cocktail for celebrating the fall season. Its unique combination of flavors will surprise and delight your guests, while the warmth of pumpkin and spices adds a cozy touch. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this drink is the perfect way to embrace the season!

Pumpkin Aperol Margarita

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Author: Maria
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
Category: Drinks
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Vegetarian

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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.

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: 1cocktail
Calories: 170
Sugar: 12mg
Sodium: 5g