Nothing goes down better than the Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash when the weather turns. This 3-ingredient pumpkin whiskey cocktail has the perfect creamy consistency that’ll make you feel cozy in an instant.

Pumpkin season is in full swing! We’ve been enjoying pumpkin drinks like my Pumpkin Pie Whiskey Sour, Pumpkin Mocktail Sour and Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini, but I think this pumpkin whiskey cocktail is my favorite yet.

Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash cocktail with pumpkin and pumpkin butter

I was lucky enough to snag some Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Butter, and we’ve been using it with everything – coffee, pancakes, yogurt, and toast. When I got to the bottom of the jar, and there wasn’t quite enough to use, I knew I needed to make a cocktail right in the jar to use every last drop. 

The Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash includes typical fall flavors like rich pumpkin butter and spice, paired with bourbon for a little complexity. I love that it still manages to be refreshing despite the warming ingredients it’s made with. This recipe is incredibly delicious and so easy to make. 

Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash cocktail on tray

Pumpkin Butter Versus Pumpkin Puree: What’s the Difference?

While both ingredients feature pumpkin, they are not the same. 

Pumpkin puree is simply cooked pumpkin that’s been pureed until smooth. It contains zero flavors or sweeteners. 

Pumpkin butter, like Trader Joe’s pumpkin butter, has more of a spreadable, silky texture. It’s usually sweetened and flavored with classic fall spices like cinnamon and clove. 

Recipe Ingredients 

  • Pumpkin butter: An “almost empty” jar of pumpkin butter is the ideal amount – about 1 tablespoon. Trader Joe’s pumpkin butter is rich and has the perfect consistency.
  • Bourbon or whiskey: Bulleit bourbon is my go-to for this recipe. 
  • Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal.
  • Star anise: Whole star anise makes the perfect festive garnish.
  • Pumpkin pie spice: Use your favorite brand or substitute with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Tools & Equipment List 

Check out my favorite glasses here!

Hand holding Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash cocktail with pumpkin and pumpkin butter

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1: First, pour the whiskey, lemon juice, and ice into the almost empty pumpkin butter jar. Shake until the ingredients have combined and are chilled. If your jar isn’t almost empty, add 1 tbsp of pumpkin butter to a cocktail shaker with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Strain the ingredients into a cocktail glass over ice. Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and garnish with star anise.

Watch How to Make this Recipe 

@thesocialsipper

I grabbed a jar of @Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Butter and instantly knew I had to make a cocktail with it! If you’re lucky enough to snag a jar before it sells out, you have to try this Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash 🎃 🧈 ! #pumkindrink #pumpkinlover #traderjoes #traderjoesfinds #traderjoesmusthaves #thanksgivingdrinks #whiskeydrink #whiskeycocktail

♬ original sound – The Social Sipper

Tips for Making a Pumpkin Whiskey Smash

  • Make sure to use pumpkin butter, not pumpkin puree!
  • To make for a group, multiply the ingredients by desired servings and add all ingredients to a pitcher then stir. Taste and add a splash of water if needed to dilute the mixture.
  • Mocktail Version: Replace the whiskey with black or herbal tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my pumpkin butter jar still has loads of pumpkin butter inside? 

If your pumpkin butter jar isn’t almost empty, you can make this pumpkin butter cocktail in a cocktail shaker. In this instance, add all the ingredients, plus a tablespoon of pumpkin butter into a cocktail shaker.

Can I leave the lemon juice out of the recipe?

Technically, yes, but the recipe will lack balance without the lemon juice. Lemon juice cuts through the richness of the sweet pumpkin butter. Swap lemon juice with orange or apple cider if you prefer.

Can I add other spices to this pumpkin whiskey cocktail?

Yes, a couple of other spices to try include cinnamon sticks, some freshly grated nutmeg, or ginger. Take it easy not to overdo it, though.

More Fall Whiskey Recipes to Try

If you loved this recipe, I would SO appreciate it if you would give this recipe a star review below. Also, be sure to share it on Instagram and tag me @thesocialsipper! 

For more great recipes, follow me on Instagram, Tiktok, Pinterest and Facebook.
If you’re interested in taking scroll-stopping photos and videos of your food and drinks, follow @foodphotographymentor on Insta and check out our food photography equipment here.

Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash Cocktail on tray with pumpkin butter jar
5 stars (1 review)

Pumpkin Butter Whiskey Smash

Servings: 1
Prep: 5 minutes
This 3-ingredient pumpkin whiskey cocktail has the perfect creamy consistency that’ll make you feel cozy in an instant.
Print Leave a Review Pin Recipe

Ingredients
 

  • An almost empty jar of pumpkin butter, about 1 tbsp
  • 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
  • 1/4 oz lemon juice
  • Star anise, for garnish
  • Pumpkin pie spice

Equipment

Instructions
 

  • Add whiskey, lemon juice and ice to the pumpkin butter jar. Optionally, combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake until chilled. Strain into a cocktail glass over ice.
  • Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and star anise.

Notes

  • Make sure to use pumpkin butter, not pumpkin puree!
  • To make for a group, multiply the ingredients by desired servings and add all ingredients to a pitcher then stir. Taste and add a splash of water if needed to dilute the mixture.
  • Mocktail Version: Replace the whiskey with black or herbal tea.
Did you Make this Recipe?Let me know what you think in the comments below, or tag @thesocialsipper on Instagram!