Halloween Pumpkin Punch

Name: Halloween Pumpkin Punch
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1/2 gallon Apple Cider; 1 15 ounce can Pumpkin Puree; 2 cups Vodka; 12 ounces Ginger Ale; 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice; 1 Orange (sliced for garnish)

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Entice your guests with this spooktacular Halloween Pumpkin Punch, which is as delicious as it is pretty. Made with real pumpkin, some apple cider, and seasonal spices this sweet drink is the perfect cocktail to serve this fall.

Halloween pumpkin punch cocktails in pumpkin-shaped glasses with orange slices and star anise on top.

Why This Recipe Works

Pumpkin spice this, pumpkin spice that, everywhere you look there’s pumpkin spice the second the first crisp morning blows into town. With real pumpkin, apple cider, and pumpkin pie spice swirled into this delicious punch it’s really the perfect fall cocktail.

If you’re prepping for a party or planning for Halloween this delicious drink can be made in minutes. It also makes plently for a crowd. Everything is simple poured into your punch bowl and topped off with some cinnamon sticks and orange slices for garnish.

You can make this recipe into a Halloween cocktail with alcohol or it can be made non-alcoholic by removing the vodka. If you plan on serving it at a party with little ones then swap the vodka for a clear soda or even orange juice.

Sweet fall cocktails are some of my favorite ways to toast the season. I serve this punch during Halloween and for Thankgiving I love making this Caramel Bourbon Apple Cider.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Halloween pumpkin punch ingredients in bowls.

Pumpkin Puree: for this recipe, you’ll need to get pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix. The pie mix already has spices and is sweetened, which could make this drink overly sweet.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: I like to keep pumpkin spice on hand, but if you’d prefer to make your own here’s a quick recipe 1 tablespoon cinnamon, ¾ teaspoon ground ginger, ¾ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ground allspice, ¼ tsp. ground cloves.
Ginger Ale: you can use ginger ale or ginger beer, whichever you prefer, but you can also use your favorite clear soda too such as Sprite.
Vodka: even though the flavors are strong in this punch I recommend using a good quality vodka. One that’s lower in quality will still effect the overall taste.

Topping Suggestions

Fruit. I prefer to keep this punch an overall orange color so I just use orange slices, however, you can add apple slices, pineapple, or even grapefruit.
Whole Spices. This punch looks beautiful when topped with whole spices such as cinnamon sticks, star anise, or even whole cloves.
Whipped Cream. Adding some whipped cream to the top of each individual glass is a delicious option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pumpkin punch cocktail process steps 1 and 2.

In a large pitcher or the punch bowl you plan on using, whisk the apple cider and pumpkin puree together until smooth.
Stir in the vodka, ginger ale, and pumpkin pie spice, whisking until just combined. Don’t over mix beause the carbonation will go flat.

Add in any toppings you plan on using such as orange slices and whole cinnamon sticks. If you’d like to use whipped cream then only place that on top of each individual glass.

Equipment Needed

Large Punch Bowl (or pitcher): This is an adorable pumpkin punch bowl that makes it easy for serving.
Whisk
Measuring Cups and Spoons

Pumpkin cocktail in a pumpkin-shaped glass topped with star anise and orange slices.

Recipe Notes and Tips:

Before serving this punch give the mixture a good stir to mix in the spices. If you plan on making this punch ahead of time it’s possible the pumpkin will start to separate but don’t worry you can easily mix it using a whisk and it will be perfect.
For an even smoother texture after you complete step 1 you can pour the mixture through a cheesecloth to remove any lumps.
If you want to bring even more flavor to this delicious pumpkin punch then I recommend adding about ½ cup of Brandy.
If making this punch ahead leave the whole spices out until you’re ready to serve. The cinnamon sticks will expand in the liquid and not looks as pretty. Conversely, if you plan on using fruit such as orange slices I suggest putting those on top when it’s prepared. The longer they soak on top of the punch the more flavor it will have.

FAQs

Can I use rum instead of vodka?

Absolutely! I suggest using a dark rum if you decide to switch it up and you can also use bourbon too.

Can this be made by the glass?

Yes, and you can adjust the serving size on the recipe card below in order to get it down to a single glass. It is much easier to prepare in a large batch though.

Can this be made non-alcoholic?

Yes! If you plan on serving this with children around or just prefer a mocktail then you can leave the vodka out. I do recommend replacing it with some additional ginger ale or even another juice such as orange juice.

If you made this recipe I want to hear all about it! Share a photo and tag me on Instagram using @AimeeMarsLiving and #AimeeMars so I can see your beautiful work. Enjoy!