Probably the last thing you think of in a cocktail is pumpkin; but done right, pumpkin makes a tasty change-up to a traditional Old Fashioned. I love using a nice smokey bourbon, like Knob Creek, to make it an even more rich and interesting drink.
Pumpkin is a nutrient-dense, plant food that is rich in vitamins and minerals, and low in calories. Pumpkin has many health benefits and is an excellent source of beta-carotene; a super antioxidant contained in the skin and flesh of the pumpkin, and the source of its bright orange color. Once ingested, the body converts beta-carotene into vitamins A and C — which makes it helpful in the prevention of cancer and heart disease. Pumpkin is also a great source of fiber, something lacking in the Standard American diet.
I like to use fresh squeezed orange juice to add even more health benefits. Oranges have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory benefits, they are also a well-known source of vitamin C. One orange contains 100 percent of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C, which has been linked to a reduction many types of cancer. Oranges are also a super antioxidant, and help to lower inflammation in the body and improve cardiovascular health. I use maple syrup instead of simple syrup. A little maple syrup goes a long way, and it is a good source of zinc and manganese. Zinc keeps our immune cells strong, and manganese helps protect our cells mitochondria from damage. The Pumpkin Old Fashioned is practically a tasty health tonic!
Pumpkin Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp organic pumpkin puree
- 2 tsp organic maple syrup
- 3 oz bourbon whiskey or mezcal tequila
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- Orange twist or slice charred orange
- Bourbon marinated cherry optional
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously.
- Garnish with a charred orange twist or caramelized orange slice and a marinated cherry
For other recipes to pumpkin spice your life, try my pumpkin spice powerballs.
Kristen Coffield
I am a passionate advocate for food as medicine, life navigator and culinary coach. This is my space for sharing what excites, inspires and motivates me to live my best life. It began as a recipe blog for nourishing, simple, weekday meals and has become something much bigger… a guide to resilient wellness. I am excited to share my knowledge of how daily habits can cumulatively help you to live like you mean it and age like you want to.
