Thanksgiving is more than just turkey and pie. It’s about celebrating good food, family, and memories. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or a cozy gathering, special drinks can make your celebration even more special.
9 Festive Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes
There’s a drink for everyone at your holiday table. This article will show you 9 delicious cocktail recipes to make your Thanksgiving unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Discover unique Thanksgiving cocktail recipes to impress your guests.
- Learn how to make festive cocktails using seasonal ingredients.
- Find the perfect drink to complement your holiday meal.
- Get tips on making your holiday gathering more memorable.
- Explore different flavors and ingredients for your cocktails.
Setting the Scene: 9 Festive Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes
As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, Thanksgiving cocktails are perfect for your holiday. The right drink can make your gathering unforgettable for your guests.
Why Cocktails Make Thanksgiving Special
Cocktails add a special touch to Thanksgiving. They let you get creative with seasonal flavors and ingredients. Signature Thanksgiving cocktails can become a new family tradition, making the meal and atmosphere even more festive.
- Experiment with autumnal ingredients like cranberries, apple cider, and pumpkin spice.
- Create a specialty drink that reflects your family’s heritage or favorite flavors.
- Serve cocktails in seasonal glasses or garnish with festive elements like rosemary or cinnamon sticks.
Essential Bar Tools for Holiday Entertaining
To create an impressive cocktail menu, you’ll need the right tools. Here are some essential items to have on hand:
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger for precise measurements
- Muddler for mixing ingredients
- Strainer to strain cocktails into glasses
- Bar spoon for mixing and layering drinks
Thanksgiving cocktails
Planning Your Thanksgiving Drink Menu
Planning your drink menu in advance can make hosting smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips:
- Choose a variety of cocktails to cater to different tastes.
- Consider making a few drinks ahead of time to save on preparation time during the gathering.
- Pair your cocktails with the meal, selecting drinks that complement the flavors of your Thanksgiving dishes.
By thoughtfully planning your Thanksgiving cocktails, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Your guests will cherish the experience.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
Make your holiday party special with a Cranberry Moscow Mule. This festive cocktail is a fun twist on the classic Moscow Mule. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving thanks to its cranberry flavor.
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe makes 4 servings and takes only 10 minutes to prepare. It’s great for those last-minute holiday parties.
| Servings | Prep Time | Total Time |
| 4 | 10 minutes | 10 minutes |
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 4 ounces cranberry juice
- 1/2 ounce lime juice
- 3 ounces ginger beer
- Ice
- Lime wheel and fresh cranberries for garnish
- Sliced lime and fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
- Add vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a few fresh cranberries.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
Pro Tips for the Perfect Moscow Mule
For the best Cranberry Moscow Mule, choose high-quality vodka and fresh lime juice. Make sure the ginger beer is chilled. You can also adjust the ginger beer to your liking.
- Use copper mugs to keep the drink cold and add to the presentation.
- Adjust the cranberry juice to your taste, depending on how strong you like the cranberry flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
You can mix the cranberry and lime juice ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Then, just add the vodka and ginger beer when you’re ready to serve.
| Component | Make-Ahead | Storage |
| Cranberry-Lime Mixture | Yes | Refrigerate up to 24 hours |
| Vodka and Ginger Beer | No | Add just before serving |
Apple Cider Mimosa
This Thanksgiving, wow your guests with the Apple Cider Mimosa. It’s a simple yet elegant cocktail that’s sure to impress. This drink combines the classic mimosa with the warm flavors of apple cider. It’s a refreshing and seasonal choice for your holiday brunch.
Apple Cider Mimosa
Yield and Preparation Time
The Apple Cider Mimosa recipe makes 4 servings and takes just 10 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving brunch. You can mix and serve this cocktail quickly, under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider, chilled
- 1 bottle of champagne or sparkling wine, chilled
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
- Slices of apple, for garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pitcher, mix the chilled apple cider and maple syrup (if using). Stir until the syrup is dissolved.
- Fill individual champagne flutes with ice.
- Pour the apple cider mixture into each flute, filling it halfway.
- Top each flute off with champagne or sparkling wine.
- Garnish with a slice of apple and a sprig of fresh rosemary.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Pro Tips for Serving at Thanksgiving Brunch
To make your Apple Cider Mimosa stand out, serve it in elegant champagne flutes. Garnish with a slice of apple and a sprig of rosemary. You can also prepare the apple cider mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cocktails.
| Tips | Benefits |
| Use high-quality apple cider | Enhances the flavor of the cocktail |
| Garnish with fresh rosemary | Adds a fragrant and festive touch |
| Prepare apple cider mixture ahead | Saves time during serving |
Variations to Try
Try different variations of the Apple Cider Mimosa. Substitute the apple cider with cranberry or pear cider. Add a splash of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra warm spice flavor.
For a non-traditional twist, use flavored sparkling water or add a few dashes of bitters. The Apple Cider Mimosa is a great canvas for experimenting with new flavors.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a twist on the classic White Russian. It adds the warm spices of pumpkin pie. It’s perfect for fall, especially at Thanksgiving.
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe makes one serving of Pumpkin Spice White Russian. It’s ready in just 5 minutes. Its quick prep makes it great for holiday parties.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
- 1/2 oz pumpkin spice syrup (recipe below)
- 1 oz heavy cream
- Pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice syrup.
- Stir well for about 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
- Pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon held just above the surface of the cocktail, creating a layered effect.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Pro Tips for Balancing Flavors
To get the flavors right in your Pumpkin Spice White Russian, don’t let the pumpkin spice syrup overpower. It should enhance the other ingredients, not take over. Adjust the syrup to your liking and use less heavy cream for a smooth drink.
Make-Ahead Pumpkin Cream
Make the pumpkin spice syrup ahead of time. Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of pumpkin pie spice in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then cool and strain into a bottle. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. You can also use it in other fall drinks or desserts.
Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
As the leaves change and the air cools, a Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned is perfect for Thanksgiving. It combines maple syrup and bourbon for a unique twist on the classic Old Fashioned.
Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe makes one Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned and takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s easy to make, even for beginners.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz maple syrup (grade B is preferred for its robust flavor)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange peel, expressing its oils over the drink.
Pro Tips for Bourbon Selection
For your Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned, choose a high-rye bourbon for its spicy flavor. Bulleit Bourbon or Four Roses are good choices. The quality of bourbon greatly affects the taste, so pick one you like to sip.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned tastes too sweet, try using less maple syrup or a less sweet grade. If it’s not sweet enough, add a bit more syrup. For a stronger bourbon taste, use a higher proof bourbon.
Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz
Make your holiday gatherings special with the Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz. This cocktail captures the essence of fall. It mixes the tartness of cranberries with the piney taste of rosemary, perfect for Thanksgiving.
Yield and Preparation Time
This drink serves 4-6 people and takes just 15 minutes to make. The cranberry syrup, a key ingredient, can be made ahead of time. This makes preparing the drink easy and quick.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz cranberry syrup (recipe below)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 2 oz Prosecco
- 1/4 oz rosemary syrup (or 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary)
- Ice
- Lime wheel and rosemary sprig for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Add gin, cranberry syrup, and lime juice.
- Top with Prosecco.
- Add rosemary syrup or a sprig of fresh rosemary.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and rosemary sprig.
Pro Tips for Garnishing
Garnishing is more than just making your drink look good. It can also improve its smell and taste. For the Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz, a rosemary sprig adds a fragrant, herbaceous note. Use a lime wheel with a small notch to add elegance.
Make-Ahead Cranberry Syrup
Cranberry syrup is great for many fall cocktails. To make it, mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of cranberries in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves and the cranberries pop. Strain the mixture and let it cool before storing it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
| Gin | 1 1/2 oz | Base spirit |
| Cranberry Syrup | 1/2 oz | Adds cranberry flavor |
| Lime Juice | 1/2 oz | Provides acidity |
Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz
As Bon Appétit says, “The best cocktails balance flavors and textures, like a great meal.” The Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz is a perfect example, making it a hit at your Thanksgiving.
“A good cocktail should be like a good friend – it should make you feel better, not worse.” The Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz will surely be a favorite at your Thanksgiving celebration.
Spiked Hot Apple Cider
Warm up your guests this Thanksgiving with Spiked Hot Apple Cider. It’s spicy and sweet. This drink mixes apple cider with bourbon, perfect for fall.
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe makes 8-10 servings. It’s ready in just 20 minutes. It’s great for big gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6-8 cloves
- 1 orange, sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, mix apple cider, bourbon, maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
- Heat it over medium, stirring now and then, until it’s hot and smells great.
- Lower the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add sliced orange and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Strain into mugs and serve right away.
Spiked Hot Apple Cider
Pro Tips for Slow Cooker Preparation
Make Spiked Hot Apple Cider in a slow cooker for easy prep. Put all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. This keeps the cider warm all day.
Alcohol-Free Variation
For a drink without alcohol, leave out the bourbon. Add more apple cider or ginger ale for flavor. This is great for those who don’t drink alcohol.
Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail & Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
Make your Thanksgiving special with our new cocktails: the Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail and the Cinnamon Whiskey Sour. These drinks are tasty and add elegance and warmth to your celebration.
Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe makes 1 drink and is ready in just 5 minutes. It’s perfect for adding to your Thanksgiving menu at the last minute.
Ingredients
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 oz champagne or prosecco
- Pomegranate seeds and lime wheel for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, mix pomegranate juice, simple syrup, and lime juice.
- Shake gently to mix well.
- Strain into a champagne flute.
- Top with champagne or prosecco.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a lime wheel.
Pro Tips
To add elegance, sugar rim the glass before filling. You can also make the pomegranate juice mix ahead of time and keep it in the fridge.
pomegranate champagne cocktail
Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe makes 1 drink and is ready in about 5 minutes. It’s great to make ahead since the cinnamon syrup can be prepared in advance.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
- 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup (see below for recipe)
- Dash of egg white (optional)
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, mix whiskey, lemon juice, and cinnamon syrup.
- If using egg white, dry shake (shake without ice) for about 15 seconds to emulsify.
- Add ice and shake again until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Pro Tips
The cinnamon syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Adjust the cinnamon to your taste by making the syrup more or less concentrated.
| Cocktail | Prep Time | Yield |
| Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail | 5 minutes | 1 serving |
| Cinnamon Whiskey Sour | 5 minutes | 1 serving |
Autumn Sangria
Celebrate fall with a pitcher of Autumn Sangria. It’s as vibrant as the season. This fruity cocktail is perfect for Thanksgiving, mixing autumn spices with sweet fruits.
Yield and Preparation Time
This recipe makes 6 servings and takes 20 minutes to prepare. It’s great for busy hosts. Including chilling, it’s ready in about 2 hours.
| Servings | Preparation Time | Total Time |
| 6 | 20 minutes | 2 hours |
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1/2 cup of orange liqueur
- 1/4 cup of brandy
- 1/4 cup of triple sec
- 1 cup of mixed autumn fruits (apples, pears, cranberries, orange slices)
- 1/2 cup of simple syrup
- 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg
- Sparkling water
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pitcher, mix the red wine, orange liqueur, brandy, and triple sec.
- Add the autumn fruits and stir gently.
- Put in the simple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to blend the flavors.
- Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
- Serve chilled, with extra fruits if you like.
Pro Tips for Fruit Selection
For a great Autumn Sangria, pick seasonal fruits. Use apples, pears, cranberries, and orange slices. Choose fruits that are in season and at their peak flavor for the best taste.
“The art of making sangria is all about balance and harmony among the ingredients. Let the flavors of the season guide your choices.”
Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions
Autumn Sangria can be made ahead, making hosting easier. Prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just before serving, add the sparkling water for a refreshing fizz. Serve in a large pitcher or individual glasses, garnished with rosemary or orange.
autumn sangria
Conclusion: Toasting to a Memorable Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is coming, and the leaves are changing colors. You’re now ready to make your holiday special with 9 festive cocktail recipes. From the Cranberry Moscow Mule to the Autumn Sangria, these drinks will bring warmth and joy to your celebration.
Whether you’re hosting a small dinner or a big party, these cocktails will wow your guests. So, invite your friends and family, and let’s shake things up. Let’s toast to a memorable Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and great drinks!
With these easy yet impressive cocktails, you’ll be the star of the show. So, get creative and make this Thanksgiving unforgettable. Happy mixing, and happy Thanksgiving!
FAQ
What are some popular Thanksgiving cocktail recipes?
Popular Thanksgiving cocktails include Cranberry Moscow Mule and Apple Cider Mimosa. Also, Pumpkin Spice White Russian, Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned, and Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz are favorites. These drinks use flavors like cranberry, apple cider, and pumpkin spice, making them great for the holiday.
Can I make Thanksgiving cocktails ahead of time?
Yes, many Thanksgiving cocktails can be made ahead. For example, cranberry syrup for the Cranberry Rosemary Gin Spritz or pumpkin cream for the Pumpkin Spice White Russian can be prepared in advance. Just keep them in the fridge until serving time.
What are some essential bar tools for making Thanksgiving cocktails?
Essential tools for making Thanksgiving cocktails include a cocktail shaker, jigger, muddler, and strainer. Having these tools makes preparing and serving your favorite cocktails easier.
Can I substitute ingredients in Thanksgiving cocktail recipes?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients in Thanksgiving cocktail recipes. For instance, you can swap different types of bourbon or gin. Or, use honey or maple syrup instead of traditional sweeteners.
How can I make my Thanksgiving cocktails more festive?
To make your Thanksgiving cocktails festive, use seasonal ingredients and garnishes. Try adding cranberries, rosemary, or cinnamon sticks. Serving your cocktails in seasonal glasses or garnishing with edible flowers or leaves also adds to the festive feel.
Are there any non-alcoholic Thanksgiving drink options?
Yes, there are many tasty non-alcoholic Thanksgiving drinks. Options include Spiked Hot Apple Cider without bourbon or a virgin Apple Cider Mimosa. You can also serve seasonal juices, teas, or flavored waters.
Can I scale up Thanksgiving cocktail recipes for a large gathering?
Yes, you can easily scale up Thanksgiving cocktail recipes for a big group. Just multiply the ingredients for the number of guests. Consider using a large pitcher or dispenser for serving.