As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to shake things up (pun intended) and plan a menu that will make your Friendsgiving gathering truly memorable. While traditional Thanksgiving dishes are always a hit, don’t underestimate the power of a perfectly crafted cocktail to bring everyone together. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or keeping things intimate with close friends, having the right drinks on hand can be the key to making this year’s celebration one for the books.
The right cocktail can set the tone for the entire evening, sparking meaningful conversations and creating memories that will linger long after the party wraps up. But with so many options vying for attention, it can be tough to narrow down your choices. That’s why we’ve put together a collection of the best Friendsgiving cocktail recipes out there – from classic twists on old favorites to innovative flavor combinations that are sure to surprise and delight.
So grab your shaker, get creative, and get ready to wow your guests with a menu that will make this year’s Friendsgiving one for the ages.
Apple Crisp Cocktail
The Apple Crisp Cocktail is an essential addition to any Friendsgiving gathering, as its bourbon-based flavor profile and sweet undertones perfectly evoke the essence of fall. With only four ingredients required, this drink is remarkably easy to prepare and will undoubtedly wow your guests with its unique blend of warm spices and crisp apple notes. The crowning touch comes in the form of a sprinkle of freshly shaved nutmeg, which adds an extra layer of depth and warmth.
This cocktail is sure to set the tone for a festive and inviting gathering, making it the perfect choice to greet your friends as they arrive. Be sure to share your thoughts on this recipe in the comments below and explore other delicious cocktail recipes in our article.
Cranberry Vodka Slush
Elevate your Friendsgiving celebration with the Cranberry Vodka Slush, a vibrant and tantalizing frozen cocktail that’s sure to impress your guests. By incorporating the Spiced Cranberry Juice base, which can be prepared ahead of time, you’ll be able to effortlessly serve this show-stopping signature drink as needed. The striking color palette makes it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering, whether you’re hosting a girls’ night in or a Christmas day extravaganza.
As the perfect blend of flavors and festive flair, this slush is sure to become the star of your party.
Cranberry Martini
The Cranberry Martini is an ideal addition to any Friendsgiving gathering, thanks to its striking red hue and robust flavor profile. The combination of homemade cranberry sauce and vodka yields a strong, indulgent drink that’s sure to delight your guests. As a bonus, the recipe is surprisingly easy to follow and can be scaled up for large gatherings, making it an excellent choice for entertaining a crowd.
This festive cocktail is perfect for Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving celebrations, thanks to its seasonal flavors and impressive presentation. If you’re seeking a delicious and effortless cocktail recipe for your get-together, the Cranberry Martini is certainly worth considering.
Thanksgiving Margarita
Elevate your Friendsgiving celebration with a twist on the classic margarita: the Thanksgiving Margarita! This autumn-inspired cocktail boasts vibrant flavors and colors that perfectly capture the essence of the season. Take it to the next level by rimming glasses with colored salt or sugar, allowing you to tailor the drink to match your party’s unique theme. Did you know that pear juice is a crucial component in this festive concoction?
While it may require some effort to track down, its distinct flavor profile adds a captivating depth to the drink. For added flair, consider preparing a pitcher of these margaritas for your guests to enjoy. We guarantee they’ll be begging for the recipe all evening long.
Autumn Sangria
Elevate your fall gatherings with the Autumn Sangria, a show-stopping cocktail that combines the season’s finest flavors and hues. This visually striking drink incorporates an assortment of fruits, including apples, pears, grapes, and plums, which harmonize beautifully with honey simple syrup and citrus juices. The addition of white wine and pear-flavored vodka lends depth to this delightful concoction, making it an ideal choice for a small gathering or Friendsgiving celebration.
With its effortless preparation and hands-off serving, this Autumn Sangria is sure to delight your guests without requiring your constant attention.
Caramel Apple Cider Moscow Mule
This fall-inspired Caramel Apple Cider Moscow Mule seamlessly blends the timeless appeal of a classic Moscow Mule with the warm, comforting essence of apple cider and caramel vodka. The harmonious union of ginger beer and apple cider results in an impeccable balance of flavors, elevated by the subtle warmth and depth brought forth by the caramel vodka.
As a visually striking drink, it’s served in a copper mug, making it an ideal choice for serving at Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or cozy autumn bonfires.
Cranberry Mojitos
Looking to add some festive flair to your Friendsgiving gathering? The Cranberry Mojito is an ideal choice. This creative take on a classic summer cocktail combines homemade cranberry simple syrup, fresh mint, lime, rum, and soda water for a refreshing and vibrant drink that’s perfect for the holiday season. What sets this cocktail apart is its sweet-tart flavor profile, courtesy of the cranberry syrup, which adds a pop of color to your gathering.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make in bulk ahead of time, making it an effortless addition to your Friendsgiving celebration. Whether you’re sipping on one while decorating your Christmas tree or serving it alongside your Thanksgiving feast, the Cranberry Mojito is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Cider and Maple Old Fashioned
Want to serve a standout cocktail at your Friendsgiving gathering? The Cider and Maple Old Fashioned is an ideal choice. This autumnal twist on a timeless classic combines the warm, comforting flavors of apple cider and pure maple syrup, perfectly capturing the essence of the season.
The addition of bourbon lends a cozy, inviting quality to this drink, making it an excellent choice for sipping with friends and family.
Whether you’re already a fan of bourbon or looking to try something new, the Cider and Maple Old Fashioned is sure to delight.
Orange Cranberry Margarita
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with the Orange Cranberry Margarita, a perfect concoction for your Friendsgiving celebration. This easy-to-make cocktail combines tequila, triple sec, cranberry juice, orange juice, and lime juice, all expertly shaken together and poured into glasses. To preserve its refreshing essence, serve the Orange Cranberry Margarita without ice, as it can quickly dilute the flavors.
For an added touch of festivity, store the drink in the fridge or on ice to keep it chilled. The addition of frozen cranberries brings a delightful pop of color and whimsy to the cocktail. If you’re seeking a show-stopping holiday drink that’s sure to impress your guests, look no further than the Orange Cranberry Margarita – a must-try for any festive gathering.
Red Sangria With Brandy
Impress your friends with a unique and flavorful cocktail at Friendsgiving – try making Red Sangria With Brandy! This Spanish-inspired drink combines full-bodied dry red wine, brandy, and freshly squeezed oranges, lemons, and limes. A splash of ginger ale adds a delightful effervescence to this rich concoction. But the real showstopper is the wine-soaked fruit that’s left over after your glass is empty – perfect for snacking on while mingling with friends.
This festive drink is sure to keep the conversation flowing and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Apple Cider Sidecar
As the cooler evenings of Friendsgiving approach, there’s no better way to warm up than with a glass of Apple Cider Sidecar. This seasonal twist on the classic cocktail is made with crisp apple cider, smooth cognac, and a hint of tanginess from Cointreau and lemon juice. The result is a refreshing drink that’s perfect for sipping as the leaves change colors. To take it to the next level, garnish with a lemon peel and Luxardo Original Maraschino Cherries for a touch of luxury.
Whether you’re hosting Friendsgiving or just looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail to enjoy during the fall season, the Apple Cider Sidecar is a must-try.
Fig Sidecar
The Fig Sidecar brings a delightful autumn twist to a timeless cocktail recipe. This refreshing concoction combines the rich flavors of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice with a touch of sweetness courtesy of homemade fig simple syrup. As the sweeter notes of the cognac take center stage, this drink becomes an excellent choice for those who may not typically enjoy the spirit.
The addition of cinnamon would effortlessly elevate the Fig Sidecar to a perfect fit for Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations. For anyone seeking a unique and delectable cocktail to serve at their Friendsgiving gathering, the Fig Sidecar is an absolute must-try.
Apple Cider Mimosa
The Apple Cider Mimosa is a masterfully crafted cocktail that embodies the essence of Friendsgiving. By harmoniously blending apple cider and champagne, this refreshing drink offers an effortless and delightful experience for your guests. The subtle yet distinctive touch of caramel sauce and nutmeg on the rim adds a sophisticated flair to the mix.
Furthermore, the incorporation of cinnamon extract and a garnish featuring either a cinnamon stick or a crisp apple slice infuses the drink with a festive charm that’s perfect for parties, happy hour, or as a post-dinner treat. If you’re seeking a Fall-inspired cocktail recipe that’s both tantalizing and easy to prepare, the Apple Cider Mimosa is an absolute must-try.
Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
As the leaves turn golden and the crisp air sets in, there’s nothing quite like gathering with friends to celebrate the joy of Thanksgiving. To make your Friendsgiving celebration even more special, why not serve up a warm and inviting cocktail that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates? The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is just the ticket, blending the smooth warmth of bourbon with the tangy tartness of cranberry juice and a hint of sweetness from maple syrup.
A sprig of rosemary adds a fragrant herbal note that ties everything together beautifully. While frozen cranberries are called for in the recipe, feel free to use fresh ones if you have them on hand – the end result will be just as delicious. And don’t worry if you’re not typically a fan of bourbon; the maple-cranberry simple syrup does an excellent job of balancing out the flavors, making this cocktail accessible to all.
So go ahead, gather ’round the fire pit or fireplace and enjoy the warmth and camaraderie that only good friends – and great drinks – can bring.
Cranberry Holiday Punch
If you’re planning a festive gathering with friends during the holiday season, consider serving the Cranberry Holiday Punch as your signature cocktail. This refreshing drink combines fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, cranberry juice, and Prosecco, served over ice. Its light and revitalizing quality makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a more subtle beverage experience.
The tartness from the cranberries and pomegranate seeds is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the Prosecco, creating a harmonious blend that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, festive brunch, or New Year’s celebration, this punch is an excellent addition to your Friendsgiving cocktail menu. Its ease of preparation and delightful flavor make it a great choice for any holiday gathering.
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a quintessential autumnal and winter drink that embodies warmth and coziness. By reducing red wine with an assortment of spices and sweeteners, the result is a richly flavored and aromatic concoction. This cocktail is ideal for Friendsgiving gatherings, as it can be easily scaled up and served in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. The harmonious blend of warm wine and fragrant spices creates a welcoming ambiance, making it an excellent choice for sharing with loved ones.
If you’re seeking a festive and delightful cocktail to serve at your Friendsgiving celebration, mulled wine is certainly worth exploring.
Wassail
Wassail, a quintessential English mulled drink, is a staple of holiday celebrations. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile is achieved by blending fruit juices with warming spices, creating a comforting and invigorating beverage. The real showstopper, however, is the addition of Red Hots, which imparts a rich cinnamon flavor and a vibrant pink color to this delectable drink.
Whether served as a non-alcoholic mocktail or infused with liquor for an added layer of complexity, Wassail is an exceptional choice for gatherings like Friendsgiving, where its bold aroma can fill the room and bring everyone together. This cherished recipe has been passed down through generations, and its ability to warm hearts and homes is undeniable.
Apple Caramel Martini
Indulge in the sweet and tangy Apple Caramel Martini, a cocktail that embodies the flavors of a warm caramel apple pie in a glass. This delightful concoction is crafted using fresh apple cider, salted caramel infused vodka, and a hint of butterscotch schnapps (optional), making it an ideal choice for Friendsgiving celebrations. The drink’s appeal is further enhanced by the caramel sauce and cinnamon sugar rim, which adds a new dimension to its flavor profile.
To serve, simply pour the Apple Caramel Martini over ice or in a chilled martini glass, garnished with a crisp apple slice and a sprig of cinnamon for added visual appeal.
Pomegranate Rum Punch
The Pomegranate Rum Punch is an exemplary blend of flavors, boasting a tangy pomegranate taste complemented by citrus hints. This delightful cocktail is ideal for Friendsgiving gatherings, as it’s effortless to prepare and can be served in both large pitchers and individual glasses. The infusion of hibiscus tea not only adds a vibrant hue but also a unique flavor dimension that harmoniously complements the pomegranate and spiced rum.
Furthermore, the garnish of pomegranate seeds and orange slices elevates the cocktail’s visual appeal, making it an irresistible choice for special occasions. If you’re seeking a seasonal, festive, and refreshing beverage perfect for the holidays, the Pomegranate Rum Punch is definitely worth trying.
The Scofflaw
Caramel Apple Martini
The Caramel Apple Martini is an ideal choice for Friendsgiving celebrations. This delightful concoction requires only three ingredients to craft, resulting in a harmonious blend of caramel and apple flavors that exude warmth and coziness perfect for the fall season. The drink’s versatility allows it to be served with either a cinnamon sugar or caramel rim, adding an attractive touch to its presentation.
While this cocktail leans slightly towards the sweet side, its sugary charm makes it an excellent match for savory appetizers or a suitable alternative to traditional dessert options.
Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
If you’re seeking a Friendsgiving drink that embodies the warm, fuzzy feelings of the holiday season, look no further than the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail. This indulgent concoction combines the richness of bourbon and vodka, making it an ideal choice for those who crave the sweet, nutty flavors of pecan pie in liquid form. The addition of crunchy pecans as a garnish elevates the overall experience, offering a delightful textural contrast to the velvety smoothness of the cocktail.
Whether you prefer it served over ice or expertly shaken and presented as a martini, this potent potable is sure to be a showstopper at any Friendsgiving gathering.
Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule Punch
This delightful Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule Punch is a seasonal sensation that’s perfect for crisp fall and winter gatherings. Its harmonious blend of vodka, cranberry apple juice, lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries and apples creates a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.
With its large pitcher-friendly design, this Moscow Mule Punch is an excellent choice for serving a crowd at Friendsgiving, holiday parties, or any other celebration where a delicious and memorable drink is desired.
Rum Moscow Mule
The Rum Moscow Mule offers a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, making it an ideal choice for Friendsgiving gatherings. Building upon the classic Dark n’ Stormy, this refreshing twist incorporates rum, ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime juice to create a light, fizzy concoction perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon or enjoying amidst the BBQ bustle. As a crowd-pleaser, it’s sure to leave your guests craving another sip.
If you’re seeking a delectable and effortless cocktail to elevate your Friendsgiving celebration, look no further than the Rum Moscow Mule.
Jelly Donut Shot
For those who crave sweet treats, the Jelly Donut Shot is a delightful concoction that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. This two-ingredient wonder combines Chambord’s fruit jelly notes with RumChata’s rich, creamy sweetness to evoke the essence of a real jelly donut. Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving celebration or just need a quick and easy cocktail fix, this dessert shot is an excellent choice.
With its lingering sweetness and subtle warmth, it’s a drink that will leave you wanting more.
Maple Old Fashioned
As the holiday season approaches, what better way to celebrate with loved ones than with a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail? The Maple Old Fashioned is a Fall-inspired concoction that combines the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup. This easy-to-make drink is a perfect blend of flavors and can be whipped up in no time, making it ideal for sipping with friends and family during Friendsgiving or any other holiday gathering.
