Warm Up Your Spooky Season: Popular Halloween Drinks for Adults

Halloween isn’t just for kids anymore. While trick-or-treating and candy corn are still beloved traditions, adults are increasingly embracing the spooky fun of Halloween. From elaborate costumes to haunted house parties, Halloween has grown into a holiday enjoyed by all ages. And what better way to celebrate the season than with delicious, warming drinks perfect for a chilly autumn evening?

Remember the days of simply handing out candy and maybe carving a pumpkin? Now, neighborhoods are transformed into Halloween wonderlands with impressive decorations, and adult Halloween parties are as common as Christmas gatherings. Americans are spending billions on Halloween, not just for costumes and candy for the kids, but for adult celebrations too.

Perhaps you’ve noticed the trend in your own neighborhood, with more elaborate decorations and adult-themed Halloween events popping up. My friend shared a story about how a casual post-trick-or-treat gathering with neighbors turned into an annual Halloween tradition, fueled by good company and festive drinks. This got me thinking: what are some fantastic Halloween-themed drinks that adults can savor while enjoying the spooky atmosphere and maybe even sneaking a piece of leftover Halloween candy?

When searching for the ideal Halloween drinks, I focused on recipes that are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and offer a comforting warmth. As October nights get colder, especially as we approach the witching hour, a hot drink is the perfect way to enhance the Halloween spirit. The following recipes are not only perfect for Halloween night but can also be enjoyed throughout the fall season, from Thanksgiving gatherings to pre-Christmas celebrations.

Let’s dive into some bewitching brews that will keep you warm and spirited this Halloween!

Hot Buttered Bourbon

Hot buttered rum is a classic, but have you tried hot buttered bourbon? This comforting drink, with roots in Southern tradition, adds a delightful twist to your fall beverage repertoire. Don’t worry about an overwhelming buttery taste; instead, the butter acts as a velvety base, enhancing the spices and beautifully complementing the bourbon. Feel free to adjust the spice and bourbon levels to find your perfect balance – experimentation is part of the fun!

Ingredients

For the Butter Mash:

¼ cup butter, softened
¾ cup light or dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Drink:

1 tablespoon of butter mash
2/3 cup hot water
¼ cup bourbon
Cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Butter Mash: In a food processor, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Process until well combined. Store the butter mash in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make your drinks.
Make the Drink: Place 1 tablespoon of the butter mash into the bottom of a mug or heatproof glass.
Pour in the hot water and stir until the butter mash is fully melted and dissolved.
Add the bourbon and stir gently to combine.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick and enjoy the cozy warmth.

Hot Mulled Apple Cider

Nothing screams “Fall” quite like the aroma and taste of hot apple cider. This recipe elevates the classic cider by infusing it with warm spices, citrus fruit, and a touch of rum for an adult kick. Adapted from Joyful Healthy Eats, this recipe yields a generous amount, perfect for Halloween parties or a cozy night in after trick-or-treating.

Ingredients

1 gallon apple cider
1 large orange, cut into ¼-inch slices
3 cinnamon sticks
4 star anise
1 tablespoon whole cloves
1 tablespoon whole allspice
1 ½ cups spiced rum (like Captain Morgan)

Instructions

Prepare the Spices: Tie the cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and allspice in a cheesecloth to create a spice packet. This makes removal easy later.
Simmer the Cider: In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, combine the apple cider, orange slices, and the spice packet. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for 2-3 hours to allow the spices and orange to infuse deeply into the cider.
Add Rum: Stir in the spiced rum into the hot apple cider mixture just before serving.
Strain and Serve: Remove the spice packet and orange slices from the pot. Serve the hot mulled apple cider in mugs and enjoy the festive flavors.

Spiced Pumpkin Pie Martini

For those who prefer a chilled Halloween treat, a Spiced Pumpkin Pie Martini is a sophisticated and flavorful choice. This cocktail captures the essence of pumpkin pie in a glass, blending the creamy texture of pumpkin puree with the warmth of fall spices and a hint of vodka. It’s like dessert in a drink, perfect for an elegant Halloween gathering.

Ingredients:

2 oz vodka
1 oz pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
0.75 oz pumpkin spice liqueur
0.5 oz heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free option
0.5 oz maple syrup
Pinch of pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Graham cracker crumbs for rimming (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Glass: If desired, rim a martini glass by moistening the rim and dipping it in graham cracker crumbs.
Combine Ingredients: In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice liqueur, cream, and maple syrup.
Shake Well: Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
Strain and Serve: Strain the martini into the prepared glass.
Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin pie spice on top for garnish.

Witch’s Brew Punch (Non-Alcoholic Option Included)

No Halloween drink list is complete without a spooky punch! This Witch’s Brew Punch is visually striking and flavorful, perfect for serving a crowd. It can be made with or without alcohol, making it family-friendly and adaptable for all your guests. The vibrant green color and eerie presentation will make it a hit at any Halloween party.