18 Cozy Fall Shot Recipes Perfect for Autumn Gatherings

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing better than warming up with a deliciously cozy fall shot. Whether you’re hosting friends around a bonfire or just craving a seasonal sip, these 18 autumn-inspired recipes are your ticket to festive fun. From spiced apple sips to creamy pumpkin delights, get ready to toast to sweater weather—one irresistible shot at a time!

Spiced Apple Cider Shots

Spiced Apple Cider Shots

These warming little sips pack all the cozy flavors of spiced cider into a single, irresistible shot—perfect for holiday gatherings or a chilly night in.

Ingredients

• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup bourbon (optional, for a boozy kick)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, bourbon (if using), honey, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and 1/8 tsp cloves. Whisk over medium heat until the honey dissolves, about 2 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to let the spices infuse. Stir in the lemon juice.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher or measuring cup to remove any spice clumps.
4. Pour into shot glasses (about 1 oz each) and garnish each with a tiny cinnamon stick. Serve warm.

The magic here is in the balance—tangy lemon brightens the deep spice notes, making each sip feel like a mini celebration.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, swap the bourbon with an extra splash of cider and a dash of vanilla extract.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Shots

These boozy little sips pack all the cozy flavors of a PSL into a fun, party-ready shot—perfect for spicing up your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp vanilla vodka
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• Pinch of sea salt
• Whipped cream (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the coffee, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla vodka, pumpkin pie spice, and sea salt. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Pour the mixture into small shot glasses (about 1.5 oz each) and chill for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
3. Top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream and a light dusting of pumpkin pie spice.

The magic here? The texture—silky from the pumpkin and cream, with just enough kick to wake up your taste buds. Ideal for passing around at Friendsgiving!

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, swap the vodka with an extra splash of vanilla extract.

Maple Bourbon Fall Shots

These cozy, boozy sips are like autumn in a glass—sweet maple, smoky bourbon, and a hint of spice make them the perfect party starter.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for topping)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup bourbon, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg. Simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
2. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Divide the mixture evenly among four 2-ounce shot glasses.
3. If using, lightly whip 1/4 cup heavy cream until frothy and dollop a spoonful over each shot. Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt.

The warm spices and silky cream balance the bourbon’s kick, making these shots feel like a decadent dessert—without the fork.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, swap bourbon for apple cider and simmer a minute longer to concentrate the flavor.

Cinnamon Whiskey Caramel Shots

These Cinnamon Whiskey Caramel Shots are like liquid dessert—boozy, buttery, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat.

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp water
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 oz cinnamon whiskey (like Fireball)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 2 tbsp water. Stir just until dissolved, then stop stirring and let simmer 5–7 minutes until deep amber (swirl the pan gently if needed).
2. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in 1/4 cup heavy cream (mixture will bubble vigorously). Once smooth, stir in 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon.
3. Let cool 2 minutes, then stir in 2 oz cinnamon whiskey. Pour into shot glasses and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if using. Serve slightly warm.

The caramel’s richness balances the whiskey’s spice, making these shots dangerously sippable—no shooter grimace here!

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, swap the whiskey for 1 tbsp cinnamon syrup and 1 tbsp apple cider.

Pumpkin Pie Cream Shots

These adorable Pumpkin Pie Cream Shots pack all the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie into a single, slurpable bite—perfect for holiday parties or a fun dessert twist!

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Whipped cream and cinnamon, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
2. Pour the mixture into small shot glasses or espresso cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to let flavors meld.
3. Just before serving, top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.

The magic? The texture is luxuriously smooth—like sippable pie filling—with just the right balance of spice and sweetness.

Tip: For a boozy twist, add 1 tbsp bourbon or spiced rum to the blender!

Hot Toddy Mini Shots

These warming little sips pack all the cozy flavors of a classic hot toddy into a single adorable shot—perfect for holiday parties or chilly nights in.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup bourbon (or whiskey)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 thin lemon slices (for garnish)
• 4 cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the hot water, honey, bourbon, lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Stir until the honey dissolves, about 2 minutes (do not boil).
2. Divide the mixture evenly among 4 shot glasses (about 2 tbsp each). Garnish each with a lemon slice and cinnamon stick.
3. Serve immediately while warm, encouraging guests to sip slowly or stir with their cinnamon stick for extra spice.

The honey’s sweetness balances the bourbon’s kick, while the cinnamon stick doubles as a stirrer—making these as fun to drink as they are to serve.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with hot apple cider.

Apple Pie Moonshine Shots

These boozy little sips taste just like spiced apple pie—perfect for sharing at holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup high-proof moonshine (or vodka)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir until sugars dissolve, about 3 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool 10 minutes.
3. Discard cinnamon sticks, then stir in moonshine and vanilla. Pour into sterilized glass bottles or jars and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or up to 2 weeks) to let flavors meld.
4. Serve chilled in shot glasses, garnished with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick.

The slow simmer deepens the caramelized apple flavor, while the moonshine gives it a smooth kick—no baking required!

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, swap the moonshine for an extra cup of apple cider and a splash of lemon juice.

Gingerbread Spiced Shots

These cozy, spiced shots taste like liquid gingerbread cookies—perfect for sipping by the fire or gifting in tiny jars.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream and cinnamon (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together whole milk, heavy cream, molasses, brown sugar, 1 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp cloves, and a pinch of salt. Heat until steaming (about 5 minutes), stirring constantly.
2. Remove from heat, stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove any spice clumps.
3. Divide into 6 shot glasses (about 2 oz each) and top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

The molasses and spice blend create a deep, caramelized warmth that’s balanced by the creamy vanilla finish—like holiday baking in a sip.

Tip: For a boozy twist, add 1 tbsp bourbon per shot with the vanilla.

Cranberry Orange Sangria Shots

These festive little sips pack all the bright, tangy flavors of cranberry-orange sangria in a single-bite shot—perfect for holiday parties or brunch gatherings!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cranberry juice (100% juice, no sugar added)
• 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or good-quality bottled)
• 1/4 cup white rum or vodka (optional, omit for mocktail version)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 small orange, thinly sliced
• 1 cup ginger ale or club soda (chilled)
• Ice cubes (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, muddle 1/2 cup fresh cranberries with 2 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp lime juice until berries burst and release juice.
2. Add 1 cup cranberry juice, 1/2 cup orange juice, and 1/4 cup rum/vodka (if using). Stir well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to infuse flavors.
3. Just before serving, gently stir in 1 cup ginger ale and orange slices. Fill shot glasses halfway with ice, then pour sangria over, leaving room for garnish.
4. Skewer reserved cranberries on toothpicks and rest on rim of each glass for a pop of color.

The magic here? The muddled cranberries create a vibrant, slightly chunky texture that makes these shots feel extra special—like a grown-up fruit punch!

Tip: For a frosty twist, freeze cranberry juice in ice cube trays and use instead of regular ice to avoid dilution.

Toasted Marshmallow Smores Shots

These boozy s’mores shots are like campfire nostalgia in a glass—perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests with a fun dessert twist.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chocolate syrup
• 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
• 1/4 cup chocolate liqueur (like Godiva)
• 1/4 cup vodka (optional, for a stronger kick)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prep the glasses: Drizzle 1 tbsp chocolate syrup into each shot glass, then sprinkle 1 tsp crushed graham crackers over the syrup.
2. Layer the fluff: Spoon 1 tbsp marshmallow fluff into each glass, gently pressing it down to create an even layer.
3. Mix the boozy base: In a small bowl, whisk together chocolate liqueur and vodka (if using). Pour 1 tbsp of the mixture into each glass.
4. Top with cream: Whip heavy cream and 1 tbsp powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Dollop a spoonful over each shot.
5. Toast the marshmallow: Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the cream and marshmallow layer until golden and bubbly (about 10 seconds per shot).

The magic here? That toasted marshmallow top gives these shots the same crackly-gooey charm as a classic s’more—without the campfire mess.

Tip: No torch? Broil the shots for 30 seconds on a baking sheet, but watch closely—they brown fast!

Caramel Apple Martini Shots

These boozy little sips taste like liquid caramel apples—perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
• 1 oz apple cider (chilled)
• 1 tbsp caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Thin apple slices (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Add 2 oz vodka, 1 oz butterscotch schnapps, 1 oz apple cider, 1 tbsp caramel sauce, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until frosty.
2. Drizzle the inside of two martini glasses with extra caramel sauce, then strain the cocktail into them.
3. Garnish each glass with a thin apple slice perched on the rim.

The magic here? The caramel sauce clings to each sip, mimicking that nostalgic caramel-apple crunch. (And yes, licking the glass is encouraged.)

Tip: For a frothier texture, swap the cider with 1 oz of unsweetened applesauce—just blend it into the mix before shaking.

Pecan Pie Bourbon Shots

These boozy little bites pack all the rich, caramel-kissed flavor of pecan pie into a single sip—perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup finely chopped toasted pecans
• Whipped cream and extra pecans for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, bourbon, maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk constantly until butter melts and mixture is smooth (about 3 minutes). Do not boil.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans. Let cool for 5 minutes.
3. Divide mixture evenly among six 2-oz shot glasses. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set (mixture will thicken slightly).
4. Top with whipped cream and a pecan half if desired. Serve chilled.

The magic here? The bourbon-infused caramel stays silky—not cloying—thanks to a hit of salt and the earthy crunch of pecans.

Tip: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes to deepen their flavor before chopping.

Chai Tea Spiced Rum Shots

These cozy little shooters pack all the warmth of chai tea with a boozy kick—perfect for sipping by the fire or spicing up your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong brewed chai tea, cooled
• 1/2 cup spiced rum
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground cloves
• Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the chai tea, spiced rum, heavy cream, honey, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and pinch of cloves. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well blended.
2. Fill four 2-ounce shot glasses halfway with the mixture. Top each with a dollop of whipped cream and a quick dusting of cinnamon.
3. Serve immediately with a cinnamon stick stirrer for extra spice.

The creamy, spiced layers make these shots feel indulgent—like dessert in a glass with a grown-up twist.

Tip: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and shake with a splash of vanilla extract.

Sweet Potato Pie Cream Shots

These mini dessert shots pack all the cozy flavors of sweet potato pie into a creamy, spoonable treat—perfect for holiday parties or a fun twist on pie night!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp salt
• Whipped cream and crushed graham crackers, for topping

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the mashed sweet potato, heavy cream, whole milk, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and 1/8 tsp salt. Blend until completely smooth, about 1 minute.
2. Divide the mixture evenly among 6 small glasses or shot glasses. Chill for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to thicken.
3. Before serving, top each with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers.

The magic here? The texture—silky like pudding but with the spiced depth of pie filling—means you get all the nostalgia in one elegant bite.

Tip: For a quicker chill, pour the mixture into a shallow dish before dividing into glasses.

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Shots

These cozy, boozy sips taste like liquid snickerdoodles—perfect for warming up chilly nights or spicing up dessert hour.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1/8 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vodka (or bourbon for deeper flavor)
• Whipped cream and extra cinnamon, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 1 cinnamon stick. Simmer 3–4 minutes, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in 1/8 tsp vanilla extract. Let cool 10 minutes.
2. Discard cinnamon stick (if using). Pour syrup into a jar with 1/2 cup vodka; shake well. Chill 1 hour.
3. To serve, pour into shot glasses, top with whipped cream, and dust with cinnamon.

The magic here? The syrup’s caramelized depth balances the booze without overpowering it—like a dessert cocktail in miniature.

Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, swap vodka with cold brew coffee or apple cider.

Harvest Moon Pumpkin Shots

These creamy, spiced pumpkin shots are like fall in a glass—perfect for sipping by the fire or serving as a festive party appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/8 tsp cloves, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into small shot glasses or espresso cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
3. Chill for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
4. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. Serve with cinnamon sticks for stirring.

The magic here? The texture is luxuriously silky, with just enough spice to let the pumpkin shine—no baking required!

Tip: For a boozy twist, add 1 tbsp bourbon or spiced rum to the blender.

Vanilla Bean Fall Spice Shots

These creamy, warmly spiced shots are like autumn in a glass—perfect for sipping by the fire or serving as a cozy dessert.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise (or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste)
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine whole milk, heavy cream, and the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean (or vanilla bean paste). Heat until just steaming, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Whisk in brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/8 tsp cloves, and a pinch of salt until dissolved. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until slightly thickened.
3. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, then divide among small heatproof glasses or espresso cups.
4. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. Serve warm with cinnamon sticks for stirring.

The real vanilla bean flecks and layered spices make these shots feel extra luxurious—ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Tip: For a dairy-free version, swap in full-fat coconut milk and omit the whipped cream garnish.

Nutella Hazelnut Shots

These creamy, dreamy Nutella Hazelnut Shots are like dessert in a shot glass—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a sweet little indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Nutella
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup finely chopped toasted hazelnuts
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• Whipped cream (for topping)
• Extra chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the heavy cream, milk, and Nutella, whisking until smooth and fully combined, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among 4 small shot glasses or espresso cups. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours) until set.
4. Top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts before serving.

The magic here? The texture—silky, mousse-like Nutella with a crunch of toasted hazelnuts makes every bite (or sip!) irresistible.

Tip: For extra flair, drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream topping.

Conclusion

There you have it—18 deliciously cozy fall shot recipes to warm up your autumn gatherings! Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these sips are sure to delight. Don’t forget to try your favorites, leave a comment below, and share this roundup on Pinterest. Cheers to a flavorful fall!