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This cozy pumpkin juice recipe is the fall drink you didn’t know you needed. It’s rich, spiced, and just the right amount of sweet. Serve it chilled over ice or warmed in a mug for instant comfort this autumn.
about this Pumpkin Juice
This pumpkin juice recipe captures all the cozy, nostalgic flavor you’d expect from a fall drink. It’s warm, nostalgic, and much more flavorful than anything you’ll find in a bottle or from the Harry Potter World theme park. Inspired by the Harry Potter books and movies, this pumpkin juice version is balanced and far less sweet, making it a fall staple (or a favorite for sipping in the great hall at Hogwarts).
You can serve it two ways. Pour it over ice for a refreshing chilled drink or warm it in a mug when you want something comforting. It’s a seasonal favorite that fits just as well into a casual movie night as it does into a Thanksgiving brunch or a Halloween themed party.
It isn’t just pumpkin puree in a glass (because no one wants that haha). The apple cider adds layers of flavor, the brown sugar brings a touch of molasses sweetness, and the pumpkin pie spice to give it seasonal spice. You can even add a shot of bourbon, spiced rum, or whiskey to turn it into a fall cocktail. Of all the taste tests, I really enjoyed the spiked version!
It only takes 15 minutes to make, and you probably already have the ingredients on hand in your pantry. This recipe is quick, easy, and super simple to make batches for when you’re serving a crowd. And better than what you’d get at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter if I do say so myself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy, ready in just 15 minutes
- Better than bottled or theme park versions
- Great for kids and easy to spike for adults
- Uses basic pantry ingredients
- Can be served cold or hot
- Naturally dairy-free and vegan
ingredients
Apple cider. Use your favorite brand! Apple juice works well, too, but cider adds a deeper fall flavor.
Pumpkin puree. Be sure to use 100 percent pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
Brown sugar. Adds just the right amount of sweetness with a hint of molasses. You can adjust the amount if you prefer less sugar.
Pumpkin pie spice. This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and ginger adds that unmistakable fall aroma.
Vanilla. Added at the end, vanilla extract ties all the flavors together. You can use store-bought or make homemade vanilla extract!
this recipe’s must-haves
You’ll need a large pot or saucepan to mix and simmer the ingredients. A whisk is helpful to fully blend the pumpkin puree into the cider and remove any lumps.
After cooking, pour the juice into a heatproof pitcher or large jar to cool and chill. Then choose your favorite glasses or mugs to serve it in.
here’s how to make this Pumpkin Juice
Simmer
Combine apple cider, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Boil then Reduce
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
Stir
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
Chill or Reheat
Let cool completely, then chill before serving over ice. For a warm version, reheat gently before serving in mugs. The longer it sits, the better it will taste!
Tips for Success
- Strain after simmering if you want a smoother texture.
- Start with less sugar and adjust to your preferred sweetness.
- Always use 100% pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
- Add a cinnamon stick during simmering for a stronger spice flavor.
- Chill thoroughly if serving cold! Plus it tastes better the next day.
variations
- To make a boozy version, try spiking the pumpkin juice with bourbon, spiced rum, or whiskey. Just 1 1/2 to 2 ounces per glass to turn this drink into a cocktail!
- For a creamy version, stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half (about 1/4 cup total). This is the variation that I feel is close to butterbeer from Universal Studios Orlando.
- To make a sparkling version, top the juice with ginger beer or sparkling water just before serving.
- You can also brighten things up with a splash of orange juice or a little orange zest for a citrus-forward variation.
More Non-Alcoholic Fall Drinks to Try: Ginger Beer Mocktail I Non-Alcoholic Ipanema Cocktail I Sparkling Arnold Palmer I Mango Mojito Mocktail
faqs
Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, apple juice will work. Cider just gives a more robust flavor so that’s preferred.
How do I make the texture smoother?
If you want an even smoother pumpkin juice, you can strain the mixture through cheesecloth over a large bowl or pitcher (or use a fine mesh sieve).
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.
Need more inspiration for a sweet treat? Check out my dessert recipes page!
what to serve with Pumpkin Juice
This pumpkin drink pairs well with fall breakfast and brunch dishes like pumpkin banana muffins, chai pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls, or pumpkin cream cheese streusel muffins.
It’s also a fun pairing with fall desserts such as apple blackberry crumble, caramel apple oatmeal muffins, or pumpkin banana bread with Nutella swirl. This pumpkin apple cider is a festive addition to Thanksgiving brunch, Halloween gatherings, or any fall celebration.
how to store
Store: Keep the juice in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Stir before serving. Serve over ice or reheat as instructed below.
Reheat: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freeze: Once cooled, pour into a freezer-safe container and store for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving again.
More Pumpkin Cocktails to Sip On
If you’re looking for something with a little more kick than magic, there are some great fall cocktail options that highlight the same cozy pumpkin flavors. A Pumpkin Pie Martini brings creamy, dessert-like vibes that are ideal for after dinner.
For something a bit more bold, the Bourbon Pumpkin Smash balances spice and depth with a citrusy finish. And if you’re in the mood for a drink that brings heat and flavor, the Pumpkin Bang is a strong contender with its punchy, spiced profile.
Finally, if you make this pumpkin juice recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.
Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!
Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!
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pumpkin juice
equipment
- Large pot or saucepan
- Whisk (to smooth out the puree)
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Heatproof pitcher or jar for chilling
- Glasses or mugs for serving
ingredients
- 8 cups apple cider apple juice works fine too
- 15 ounces pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 2 tsp vanilla
- Garnish: cinnamon stick
instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine apple cider, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
- Allow to cool completely and chill before serving in glasses filled with ice.
- You can also reheat to serve warm.
video
notes
- Apple cider gives this pumpkin drink its rich fall flavor, but apple juice can be used if that’s what you have on hand. Cider brings a deeper, more spiced base.
- Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, which will throw off the flavor balance.
- To make it boozy, add 2 cups bourbon (about 2 oz per serving, adjust as desired). Spiced rum or whiskey also work well for a warmer, spiked version.
nutrition
about meghan
Meghan Yager is the recipe developer, food photographer, and creative force behind Cake ‘n Knife, where everyday moments are celebrated with bold, flavor-forward recipes. From cozy cocktails to bold appetizers and indulgent desserts, her approachable style brings people together around food worth sharing. Meghan’s work has been featured by Good Housekeeping, Oprah Daily, Today, Woman’s Day, and The Huffington Post. She lives in Denver, where she brings big flavor and a little sass to every bite.
