Pumpkin Spice Mimosa

Sparkling Pumpkin Pie Mimosas: The Ultimate Fall Brunch Cocktail Recipe

Embrace the cozy spirit of autumn mornings and festive gatherings with a delightful twist on a classic brunch favorite – the Pumpkin Pie Mimosa. This elegant and incredibly simple cocktail is the perfect way to kick off Thanksgiving celebrations, a crisp fall brunch, or any special occasion that calls for a touch of seasonal sparkle. Imagine fabulous flutes brimming with a perfectly spiced pumpkin juice and crisp, bubbly champagne, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Crowned with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice sugar, each sip evokes the comforting taste of pumpkin pie, but in a sophisticated, sippable form. Prepare to elevate your autumn entertaining with this irresistible, easy-to-make beverage that promises bubbly cheer and a touch of fall magic.

Festive Pumpkin Pie Mimosa with whipped cream and cinnamon stick, perfect for Thanksgiving brunch or fall gatherings

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About This Pumpkin Pie Mimosa

Allow me to confess a little secret that might surprise you: traditional pumpkin pie isn’t quite my favorite dessert. GASP. I know, I know. It sounds almost un-American, especially around Thanksgiving! For years, I looked forward to that classic slice, but over time, I found it often to be overwhelmingly sweet or too heavy. My preference lies not with the pie itself, but with the delightful medley of spices that define fall flavors.

My love for pumpkin spice is a nuanced one. It’s not about being the first in line for a ubiquitous pumpkin spice latte; rather, it’s an appreciation for the individual components – cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger – when used thoughtfully and in moderation. This specific adoration for the spice blend, rather than the dense dessert, inspired me to create a sophisticated, yet easy-to-make cocktail perfect for those special autumn mornings: the Pumpkin Pie Mimosa.

Your Pumpkin Pie Fix, Reinvented!

Close-up of a refreshing Pumpkin Pie Mimosa with a creamy whipped topping and a hint of spice

This Pumpkin Pie Mimosa recipe delivers all the comforting, aromatic essence of pumpkin pie without the density or excessive sweetness. It’s an ideal choice for Thanksgiving morning, whether you’re hosting a grand family affair or simply enjoying a quiet, intimate brunch with your significant other before the holiday festivities truly begin. This delightful drink offers a vibrant burst of pumpkin flavor in every sip, beautifully complemented by the dry, crisp notes of brut champagne.

What makes this cocktail truly exceptional is its perfect balance. Unlike many overly sweet holiday drinks, this mimosa is effervescent, exquisitely spiced, and remarkably refreshing. The subtle richness of the homemade pumpkin juice harmonizes with the bright acidity of the champagne, creating a bubbly sensation that dances on your palate. The final touches of a generous dollop of whipped cream and a festive pumpkin spice sugar rim add just the right amount of indulgent sweetness, tying all the flavors together in a perfect autumn symphony.

You’ll quickly find yourself reaching for another glass! Don’t hesitate to double or even triple the recipe to ensure there’s enough bubbly goodness for everyone. After all, with all the joy and occasional chaos that comes with family gatherings, an extra special drink might be just what you need to navigate the day with an extra sparkle in your eye. And here’s a little secret: these mimosas are equally fantastic for a relaxed post-Thanksgiving brunch, making those leftovers feel even more luxurious!

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A selection of essential ingredients for making Pumpkin Pie Mimosas, including pumpkin puree and spices

Essential Ingredients for Your Mimosa

Crafting the perfect Pumpkin Pie Mimosa requires just a handful of quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for selecting the best components:

  • Pumpkin Puree: This is the heart of your mimosa. It’s absolutely crucial to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, which will throw off the delicate balance of this cocktail. Look for cans labeled simply “100% Pure Pumpkin” or “Pumpkin Puree” at your grocery store. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even make your own pumpkin puree from scratch!
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: This aromatic blend brings all the signature fall warmth to your drink. Typically, it’s a mix of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, sometimes with allspice. You can easily find pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice in the baking aisle. Alternatively, for a truly fresh flavor, you can blend your own from individual spices. Adjust the quantity to your preference – a little goes a long way in this recipe!
  • Granulated Sugar: Used for both the pumpkin juice base and the festive rimming sugar, granulated sugar provides clean sweetness. We recommend sticking to granulated sugar for consistency in texture and flavor.
  • Champagne (Brut Recommended): The bubbly component of your mimosa! The key here is to choose a dry champagne, specifically a “Brut” variety. Brut champagnes have very little residual sugar, which is essential for balancing the sweetness of the pumpkin juice. Using a sweeter sparkling wine like Prosecco or an extra-dry champagne might make the overall drink too cloying. Select a champagne you genuinely enjoy drinking on its own, as its quality will directly impact the final cocktail.
  • Whipped Cream: An optional but highly recommended garnish! Freshly whipped cream adds a luscious texture and a touch of dairy richness that beautifully complements the pumpkin spice. You can use store-bought aerosol cans for convenience, but homemade whipped cream (just heavy cream and a touch of sugar/vanilla, whipped until fluffy) is truly superior.
  • Cinnamon Sticks: Another optional garnish that adds an elegant visual touch and a subtle woody aroma as you sip.
  • Water: Used to thin out the pumpkin puree slightly to create a juice-like consistency without compromising flavor.
A hand carefully rimming a champagne flute with pumpkin spice sugar for a mimosa

Must-Have Tools & Equipment

While this Pumpkin Pie Mimosa is wonderfully simple to prepare, having the right tools can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a breakdown of the essential equipment for achieving a picture-perfect and delicious fall cocktail:

  • Saucepan: You’ll need a small to medium-sized saucepan to gently warm and combine your pumpkin puree, spices, and sugar. A good quality saucepan ensures even heating and prevents the mixture from sticking or burning, which is key for developing those rich pumpkin flavors without over-reducing.
  • Fine Mesh Sieve: This is a non-negotiable item for achieving that silky-smooth pumpkin juice. After simmering, the pumpkin puree can have a slightly fibrous texture. Straining it through a fine mesh sieve removes any pulp, leaving you with a perfectly smooth liquid that won’t interfere with the delicate bubbles of your champagne. It’s the secret to a refined mimosa!
  • Champagne Flutes: Presentation is everything, especially for a celebratory drink like a mimosa. Elegant champagne flutes not only look beautiful but are also designed to preserve the champagne’s effervescence. I personally adore these champagne flutes, which you can see featured in the photos!
  • Rimmer Set (Optional, but Recommended): While you can simply use a small plate, a traditional rimmer set (often used for margaritas) makes applying the pumpkin spice sugar rim incredibly easy and neat. It helps create an even coating around the edge of the glass, ensuring every sip is enhanced by that delightful spiced sweetness.
  • Small Bowls: Handy for mixing your rimming sugar and for holding any garnishes like whipped cream or cinnamon sticks.

Having these tools on hand will ensure your Pumpkin Pie Mimosas are not just delicious, but also beautifully presented, making your fall brunch truly memorable.

A festive Pumpkin Pie Mimosa with a sugared rim, whipped cream, and cinnamon stick, held elegantly

How to Craft Your Perfect Pumpkin Pie Mimosa

Creating these festive pumpkin mimosas is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. The key is in preparing the delicious pumpkin juice base properly and assembling it just before serving for maximum fizz and freshness. Follow these instructions for a perfectly spiced, elegant cocktail.

Craft the Spiced Pumpkin Juice

Begin by combining your 100% pure pumpkin puree, fragrant pumpkin pie spice, granulated sugar, and a splash of water in a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat. It’s important to stir this mixture constantly for a few minutes. The goal here isn’t to thicken it significantly, but rather to gently cook down the pumpkin puree, allowing the flavors to meld and the spices to fully bloom. You want the mixture to remain a loose, smooth puree – avoid overcooking it to the point where it becomes a thick paste!

Strain for Smoothness

Once your pumpkin juice mixture has simmered briefly and the flavors have developed, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour the entire mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl or container. Using a spoon or spatula, gently press against the solids in the sieve to extract as much liquid as possible. This crucial step removes any fibrous bits from the pumpkin, ensuring your mimosa base is wonderfully smooth and velvety. Discard the remaining pulp. Allow the strained pumpkin juice to cool completely, preferably in the refrigerator, before proceeding with the cocktail assembly. Chilling it thoroughly will ensure your mimosa remains refreshingly cold.

Prepare the Festive Rimming Sugar

In a small, shallow bowl, combine granulated sugar and additional pumpkin pie spice. Stir these together thoroughly until the spice is evenly distributed, creating a beautifully aromatic and festive rimming mixture. To rim your champagne glasses, lightly moisten the rim of each glass. You can do this by running a lemon wedge around the edge, or simply by dipping it briefly in a shallow dish of water. Then, gently dip the moistened rim into the pumpkin spice sugar mixture, twisting to ensure an even and generous coating. Set the rimmed glasses aside, ready for assembly.

Thoughtful Assembly

Now for the fun part! Take your beautifully rimmed champagne flutes. Pour approximately 1 1/2 ounces (or about 3 tablespoons) of the chilled, spiced pumpkin juice into each glass. Give the juice a gentle swirl if it has settled. Next, slowly fill each glass to the top with your chilled brut champagne. Pouring slowly helps preserve the bubbles and prevents overflow. Finally, add your elegant garnishes: a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a cinnamon stick for aroma and visual appeal, and a delicate sprinkle of your extra pumpkin spice rimming sugar over the whipped cream for that extra touch of sweetness and flavor. Serve these stunning Pumpkin Pie Mimosas immediately to enjoy their effervescent charm!

A tray of freshly prepared Pumpkin Pie Mimosas, garnished and ready to be served at a fall celebration

Expert Tips for Mimosa Success

To ensure your Pumpkin Pie Mimosas are nothing short of spectacular, keep these helpful tips in mind:

  • Always Use 100% Pure Pumpkin Puree: This cannot be stressed enough! Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will disrupt the delicate flavor balance of your mimosa, making it excessively sweet and potentially less refined. Check the label carefully to ensure you’re using pure pumpkin.
  • Opt for Brut Champagne: A dry, brut champagne is your best friend in this recipe. Its crisp, less sweet profile perfectly complements the spiced pumpkin juice, preventing the cocktail from becoming cloying. Avoid sweeter sparkling wines if you prefer a balanced drink.
  • Chill All Ingredients Thoroughly: For the best tasting and most refreshing mimosa, ensure both your homemade pumpkin juice and your champagne are well-chilled before assembly. This keeps the drink cold without needing ice, which would dilute the flavors.
  • Don’t Overcook the Pumpkin Juice: When simmering the pumpkin puree, remember the goal is to infuse flavors, not to create a thick sauce. Keep it on medium heat and stir constantly for just a few minutes until fragrant. It should remain a loose, pourable consistency for easy straining.
  • Experiment with Spice Levels: While the recipe provides a great starting point, feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice in the juice base and rimming sugar to suit your personal preference. Love a bolder spice kick? Add a tiny bit more!
  • Garnish Generously: The whipped cream and cinnamon stick aren’t just for looks; they enhance the overall experience. The cream adds richness, and the cinnamon stick provides an aromatic flourish. Don’t skip these delightful touches!
  • Serve Immediately: Mimosas are best enjoyed right after they are assembled to fully appreciate the champagne’s effervescence.

Can I Prepare Pumpkin Mimosas in Advance?

Absolutely! The beauty of this Pumpkin Pie Mimosa recipe is that a significant component can be prepared ahead of time, making your entertaining stress-free. We highly recommend making the spiced pumpkin juice base in advance. Once prepared and strained, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store this pumpkin juice in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to use it, give the container a good shake or stir, as the spices might settle at the bottom over time. This pre-made base means all you have to do on the day of your event is rim your glasses and pour, saving you valuable time and effort. Remember, the champagne should always be added just before serving to maintain its delightful fizz and freshness. Do not mix the champagne and pumpkin juice too far in advance, as the bubbles will dissipate.

More tasty pumpkin cocktails to try: Pumpkin Bourbon Sidecar | Pumpkin Pie Martini | Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned | Pumpkin Bourbon Hot Chocolate

Serving Pumpkin Pie Mimosas with an elegant touch for a fall gathering or brunch celebration

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Mimosas

Pumpkin Pie Mimosas are the quintessential fall brunch cocktail, making them a superb partner for a variety of sweet and savory dishes. When I’m serving these delightful drinks, I’m thinking about creating a memorable and delicious brunch spread. Here are some of my favorite fall brunch recipes that perfectly complement the spiced sweetness of these mimosas:

Sweet & Spiced Companions:

  • If you’re eager to continue the pumpkin theme with something sweet and comforting, consider serving a rich Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl. Its tender crumb and sweet swirl are a heavenly match.
  • Fluffy Pumpkin Banana Muffins offer a delightful, moist bite that’s not too heavy, providing just the right amount of sweetness alongside your mimosa.
  • For another muffin option, our Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins are incredibly tender and flavorful, with a delightful cream cheese surprise in the center.
  • Consider a classic stack of Pumpkin Pancakes or Spiced French Toast for a truly indulgent brunch experience.

Savory Delights:

  • For a hearty and satisfying savory option, a robust Southwestern Ham Hash is a fantastic choice for fall. Its smoky and savory notes create a beautiful contrast with the mimosa’s sweetness.
  • You can’t go wrong with Breakfast Croissant Sandwiches, which are wonderfully versatile and delicious any time of year. They’re quick to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser.
  • A creamy Cheddar & Chive Scone or a savory Spinach and Feta Frittata would also pair beautifully, offering a savory counterpoint to the mimosa’s effervescent charm.

Another Festive Fall Sip:

  • Looking for another festive fall-themed brunch cocktail to offer? An Apple Cider Mimosa provides a different but equally autumnal flavor profile, giving your guests a delightful choice.

No matter what you choose to serve, these Pumpkin Pie Mimosas are sure to add a touch of warmth and celebration to your fall gatherings. If you decide to make this enchanting pumpkin cocktail, please take a moment to give the recipe a rating or leave a comment below! I genuinely love hearing about your culinary adventures and I make it a point to respond to every single comment. Your questions are always welcome too!

And, if you share your creations on social media, be sure to tag me on Instagram. It’s incredibly rewarding to see these recipes come to life in your kitchens and homes – those photos truly mean the world to me and inspire me daily!

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Classic Pumpkin Pie Mimosa in a champagne flute, ready to enjoy

Pumpkin Pie Mimosa Recipe Card

Make your fall celebrations and Thanksgiving brunch more festive and elegant with this sparkling Pumpkin Pie Mimosa. This fancy cocktail delivers the perfect balance of warm spices, subtle pumpkin flavor, and crisp bubbly cheer, ensuring a memorable and delicious experience for all.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

4.8 from 65 votes
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Equipment

  • Libbey Stemless Champagne Flute Glasses
  • Fine Mesh Strainers
  • Saucepan

Ingredients

Pumpkin Juice Base (Yields enough for 4 mimosas)

  • 1 15 oz can 100% pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 2 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
Rimming Sugar

  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For Assembly

  • 1 bottle (750ml) chilled Brut Champagne
  • Garnish: fresh whipped cream, cinnamon sticks (and extra rimming sugar, if desired)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pumpkin Juice: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the 15 oz can of 100% pure pumpkin puree, 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 2 1/2 tsp granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup water. Cook this mixture gently, stirring constantly for approximately 3-5 minutes, until the flavors are well combined and the mixture is heated through. Ensure it remains a loose, pourable puree and does not thicken into a paste.
  • Strain and Chill: Remove the pumpkin juice mixture from the heat. Carefully strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl or container, pressing gently to extract all the smooth liquid. Discard any remaining pulp. Allow the strained pumpkin juice to cool completely before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill thoroughly. This can be made up to 3 days in advance.
  • Make the Rimming Sugar: When you’re ready to serve the drinks, prepare the rimming sugar. In a small, shallow bowl, stir together 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until well combined. Lightly wet the rims of 4 champagne glasses (using a little water or a lemon wedge) and then dip them into the pumpkin spice sugar mixture, twisting gently to create an even, festive rim. Set aside.
  • Assemble the Mimosas: Add approximately 1 1/2 ounces (about 3 tablespoons) of the chilled, strained pumpkin juice into each rimmed champagne glass. If the juice has settled, give it a quick stir before pouring.
  • Add Champagne: Slowly fill each glass to the top with a good quality, chilled Brut champagne. Pouring slowly helps maintain the carbonation and prevents excessive foaming.
  • Garnish and Serve: Top each Pumpkin Pie Mimosa with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream, an elegant cinnamon stick, and a light sprinkle of any leftover pumpkin spice rimming sugar over the whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
  • Serve these beautiful and delicious Pumpkin Pie Mimosas immediately to enjoy their vibrant flavors and effervescent charm.

Notes and Troubleshooting

For the best results, keep these tips in mind:

  • Consistency of Pumpkin Juice: The initial pumpkin juice mixture should be fairly loose, like a smooth sauce. If your pumpkin puree seems particularly thick, you can add a tiny bit more water (a tablespoon at a time) to reach a pourable consistency before cooking.
  • Avoid Over-Thickening on the Stove: During the cooking step, the mixture should remain loose. The purpose of heating is to deepen and meld the flavors, not to reduce it to a thick paste. If it thickens significantly on the stove, you’ve likely cooked it for too long or the heat was too high. It should still be easily strainable.
  • Always Use 100% Pumpkin Puree: Reiterate – do not use pumpkin pie filling. The pre-sweetened and spiced nature of pie filling will make your mimosa overly sweet and overpower the delicate champagne.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste your pumpkin juice after it’s cooled. If you prefer a sweeter mimosa, you can stir in a tiny bit more sugar. For a less sweet drink, ensure you use a very dry brut champagne.
  • Storage: The strained pumpkin juice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to shake it well before using as spices may settle.
Category: Brunch Cocktails, Fall Drinks