About the Recipe
The Pumpkin Pyro is a bold seasonal riff on the classic whiskey sour. Roasted pumpkin purée brings warmth and body, maple syrup adds rich sweetness, and fresh lemon juice keeps it bright. An optional egg white (or aquafaba) gives a luxurious foam, while the finishing touch — a smoking cinnamon stick or charred orange peel — makes this cocktail as theatrical as it is delicious. Think smoky, spiced pumpkin pie with a bourbon backbone.
Ingredients
2 oz bourbon
1 oz roasted pumpkin purée*
¾ oz maple syrup
¾ oz lemon juice
1 egg white or a few drops Fee Foam/aquafaba (optional, for foam)
Ice
Smoked cinnamon stick
Instructions
Step 1
In a shaker, add bourbon, roasted pumpkin purée, maple syrup, lemon juice, and egg white (if using). Dry shake (without ice) to emulsify.
Step 2
Add ice and shake again until well-chilled and frothy.
Step 3
Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Step 4
For garnish: ignite a cinnamon stick until it smolders, blow out, and place across the rim — or add a charred orange peel for smoky aromatics.
Tips
Foam factor: Egg white creates the richest texture; aquafaba is a great vegan substitute.
Roast depth: Roast pumpkin until edges caramelize slightly — this adds natural sweetness and depth.
Extra smoke: Hold the cinnamon stick smoldering just above the glass for a few seconds before serving.
Mocktail version: Swap bourbon for chilled black tea (like lapsang souchong for smoky vibes).
Serving Tips
Glass: Coupe
Garnish: Smoked cinnamon stick or charred orange peel
Vibe: Dramatic, smoky, and indulgently seasonal