As the seasons transition from autumnal warmth to crisp winter air, the anticipation of Thanksgiving grows. This time-honored holiday is a moment for loved ones to come together, share in gratitude, and savor delicious flavors. While the turkey may be the centerpiece of the celebration, it’s the drinks that add depth and excitement to the gathering. Bourbon, with its rich, velvety smoothness and complex flavor profile, is an ideal companion to the hearty dishes that fill the Thanksgiving table.
Its comforting warmth makes it a natural fit for cozying up by the fire or sharing around the dinner table. But with so many bourbon cocktail recipes vying for attention, how do you choose the perfect one to toast your holiday? Look no further! We’ve combed through countless recipes and tested the best to bring you an expertly curated selection of Thanksgiving bourbon cocktails. From timeless classics to innovative twists, our roundup has something for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply seeking a warm drink to enjoy on your own, we’ve got you covered with a carefully chosen assortment of bourbon cocktail recipes that are sure to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration.
Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and spicy this Thanksgiving with the Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail. This festive drink combines the warmth of bourbon with the crispness of apple cider, served over ice with a cinnamon stick garnish that adds an extra touch of elegance. And for an added layer of sophistication, consider customizing your glasses using Cricut adhesive foil to make the presentation even more special.
With its simplicity and impressive flavor profile, it’s no wonder your guests will be clamoring for the recipe after just one sip.
Orange Cranberry Bourbon Smash
This delectable Orange Cranberry Bourbon Smash cocktail embodies the warmth and coziness of Thanksgiving, with cranberry and orange flavors taking center stage. The secret to its authentic cranberry taste lies in the use of Great Value Cranberry Sauce, which provides an unparalleled depth of flavor.
The infusion of rosemary and ginger lends a delightful autumnal charm, while the muddling technique employed in the recipe expertly releases the herb’s essence into the mixture, surpassing even the most meticulous shaking methods. As a result, this cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a sumptuous and celebratory drink to mark the holiday season.
Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
Indulge in the warmth of the season with the Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned, an autumnal delight that combines the comforting flavors of chai tea with the rich notes of bourbon. This harmonious blend is brought to life through a combination of homemade spiced chai simple syrup, fine bourbon, winter citrus, a hint of vanilla sweetness, and a splash of fizzy sparkling water.
As the syrup takes center stage, its complex flavor profile, infused with the subtle warmth of vanilla, expertly balances the boldness of the bourbon. The addition of citrus and carbonation adds a refreshing touch, making this cocktail a perfect union of fall and winter flavors in every sip. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or simply seeking a cozy drink to warm your spirits, the Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is sure to impress.
Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz
Imagine sipping on a warm and inviting cocktail as the snowflakes gently fall outside or the fireplace crackles with warmth inside. The Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz is that perfect drink for the holiday season, blending the sweetness of maple syrup with the spicy kick of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. When you add in the smoothness of bourbon, the brightness of lemon, and the effervescence of champagne, you get a cocktail that’s as cozy as it is complex.
The result is a sweet, spicy, and utterly delightful drink that will leave your guests feeling merry and bright. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or a Christmas gathering, this Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz is sure to be the star of the show.
Cranberry Orange Bourbon With Brandied Cranberries
Impress your guests this Thanksgiving with a one-of-a-kind cocktail that combines the warmth of bourbon with the tanginess of cranberries. The Cranberry Orange Bourbon with Brandied Cranberries takes the classic old fashioned to new heights by marrying Jefferson’s Reserve bourbon with orange juice, homemade orange and ginger simple syrup, and a hint of spice.
But the real showstopper is the brandied cranberries used as a garnish – these tart little morsels will awaken your taste buds and leave you wanting more. To take it to the next level, top it off with dried orange crisps for a satisfying crunch that complements the drink perfectly. With its unique flavor profile and eye-catching presentation, this cocktail is sure to be the star of your Thanksgiving gathering.
Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned
If you’re seeking a cozy and inviting cocktail to warm up on a chilly Thanksgiving evening, look no further than the Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned. This delectable concoction masterfully blends the richness of bourbon with the warmth of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, complemented by the subtle sweetness of honey and the brightness of fresh orange juice. The star of the show is undoubtedly the spiced honey syrup, which imbues the drink with its unique flavor profile.
If you’re looking to deviate from the usual Thanksgiving drinks and try something new, this cocktail is sure to impress.
Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
As the aroma of roasted turkey and savory side dishes wafts through the air, there’s no better way to warm up the senses than with a rich and tangy Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail. The harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors, infused with the comforting warmth of bourbon, is the perfect complement to your Thanksgiving celebration. What sets this cocktail apart is the use of homemade maple cranberries and syrup, which add a unique dimension of flavor that’s sure to impress your guests.
Served over ice with a splash of seltzer water or club soda, and garnished with a fragrant sprig of rosemary and a few plump cranberries, this drink is the epitome of festive cheer. Whether you’re hosting a gathering of friends and family or simply looking for a delicious way to cap off your holiday meal, the Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is an unbeatable choice.
Fig Walnut Sour
If you’re searching for a Thanksgiving cocktail that embodies both festive flair and delightful taste, the Fig Walnut Sour is an excellent choice. This bourbon-based concoction strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour notes, topped with a lovely pink hue that’s reminiscent of the season. The fig syrup brings a unique twist to the classic sour formula, while the black walnut bitters introduce a subtle nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the bourbon.
Whether you’re seeking a signature cocktail to serve at your Thanksgiving gathering or simply want to wow your friends with your bartending skills, the Fig Walnut Sour is sure to impress. Why not give it a try and experience its charm for yourself? With its unique blend of flavors and stunning appearance, this cocktail is poised to become a new favorite.
Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is an ideal addition to any Thanksgiving celebration, offering a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and strong flavors that appeals to a wide range of palates. This classic winter drink combines equal parts of bourbon and cranberry juice with a hint of freshness from the rosemary sage simple syrup. The result is a smooth yet flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Whether served in a rocks glass, stemless wine glass, or classic coupe, this party-friendly concoction can be prepared ahead of time and stored until ready to serve. As a result, it’s an impressive and scrumptious choice that’s sure to delight your guests.
Cider and Maple Old Fashioned
Imagine sipping on a warm, autumnal cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of Thanksgiving. The Cider and Maple Old Fashioned achieves just that by trading traditional sugar for apple cider and pure maple syrup, resulting in a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that’s tailor-made for the fall season. When you pair this unique twist with Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon and Rye Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup, you get a truly unforgettable drink experience.
And let’s not forget the crowning touch: a cinnamon stick garnish that adds a fragrant, aromatic finish to the mix. If you’re in the market for a bourbon-based cocktail that embodies the cozy charm of Thanksgiving, look no further than this exceptional creation.
Cherry Bomb
As the clock strikes Turkey Day, gather ’round with a twist on tradition – a one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving cocktail that’s equal parts indulgent and refreshing. Behold, the Cherry Bomb! This show-stopper combines the lusciousness of fresh cherries, the depth of rich bourbon, the warmth of vanilla, the sweetness of maple syrup, the zing of lemon juice, and the effervescence of club soda to create a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
Whether you’re rounding off a day of family gatherings or kick-starting your holiday celebrations, this Cherry Bomb is sure to leave your taste buds singing with joy. Give it a go this Thanksgiving season and discover why it’s destined to become your new go-to cocktail.
Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail
Imagine sipping on a festive and flavorful drink that’s as warm and cozy as the holiday season itself. The Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail is just that – a delightful concoction that combines the tanginess of homemade cranberry sauce, the spiciness of ginger beer, and the smoothness of bourbon. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce is perfectly balanced by the fizziness of the ginger beer, creating a drink that’s not too sweet, but just right.
As you take a sip, the warmth of the bourbon envelops you, making this cocktail the perfect companion for Thanksgiving gatherings or any holiday celebration. If you’re looking to impress your guests with a unique and delicious cocktail recipe, look no further than the Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail.
Maple Honeycrisp Bourbon Cocktail
Savoring the essence of Fall, the Maple Honeycrisp Bourbon Cocktail is a masterful blend of sweet and tart flavors. The star of the show are the honeycrisp apples, adding a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness to the mix. A drizzle of maple syrup provides warmth and depth, while granulated sugar adds a touch of sophistication. When bourbon is added to the equation, the result is a cozy and inviting cocktail that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any Fall celebration.
For those who prefer a mocktail, the recipe can easily be adapted to create a delicious and refreshing non-alcoholic drink. Ultimately, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone seeking a truly seasonal drink that embodies the flavors of Fall.
Hot Apple Pie Bourbon Cocktail
Indulge in the warmth of the season with the Hot Apple Pie Bourbon Cocktail, an ideal treat for Thanksgiving gatherings. This indulgent concoction harmoniously blends apple cider, cinnamon, allspice, butterscotch, and bourbon, yielding a complex flavor profile that’s sure to become a fall favorite. The substitution of butterscotch sauce for butter infuses the drink with a soothing sweetness, while the bourbon adds a comforting warmth.
This crowd-pleasing cocktail is perfect for serving in bulk and distributing among guests at the dinner table. Add some cinnamon sticks as stirrers and you’ll have a visually appealing and scrumptious beverage that’s bound to impress.
Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail
Savor the warmth of the season with the Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail, a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving gathering. This inviting concoction combines homemade rosemary syrup, rich bourbon, tangy lemon juice, and a hint of maple sweetness. A splash of club soda adds a lively touch, served over ice for a refreshing twist. The harmonious blend of rosemary and bourbon evokes the cozy atmosphere of autumn and winter, making it an ideal choice for the colder months.
If you’re a fan of bourbon-based cocktails, this recipe is sure to delight. With its unique flavor profile and ease of preparation, the Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail is sure to impress your guests and leave them feeling grateful for the sharing.
Apple Cider Bourbon Mule
In the midst of crisp autumn evenings, the Apple Cider Bourbon Mule offers a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule cocktail. This fall-inspired concoction combines the smoothness of bourbon whiskey with the sweetness of apple cider and the spicy kick of ginger beer. Its effortless preparation makes it an ideal choice for sipping amidst the cozy atmosphere of Thanksgiving celebrations or any chilly autumn gathering.
The harmonious union of sweet and spicy elements, coupled with the rich complexity brought by the bourbon, creates a truly delightful drink that is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned
A seasonal twist on the classic whiskey cocktail, the Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned is a bourbon lover’s dream come true. By infusing toasted pecans in whiskey for several days before combining it with sugar and bitters, you’ll create a rich and complex homemade Old Fashioned that’s perfect for sipping on a chilly Thanksgiving night. As the flavors meld together, you’ll be left with a warm and cozy drink that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
If strong drinks are your thing, this cocktail is a must-try. So why not give it a go and make this Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned a part of your holiday tradition?
Pomegranate Ginger Bourbon Cocktail
The Pomegranate Ginger Bourbon Cocktail is an innovative reimagining of the classic old fashioned, marrying sweet and spicy flavors with a bold bourbon punch. The ginger simple syrup infuses the drink with a distinctive warmth, while pomegranate’s fruity sweetness provides a delightful contrast. This cocktail’s ease of preparation makes it perfect for serving over crushed ice or as a refreshing slush.
A garnish featuring pomegranate arils, lime slices, and candied ginger adds an extra layer of sophistication to the overall experience. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at Thanksgiving or any other occasion, this unique and delectable cocktail is sure to shine.
Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
As the holiday season approaches, the Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail stands out as a standout drink to warm up any gathering, particularly on Thanksgiving. Its striking pinkish-red hue and tangy flavor are sure to captivate your guests. This festive cocktail gets its unique flavor profile from infused cranberry juice, expertly spiced with fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg. The bourbon adds a comforting warmth, while the ginger beer provides a delightful effervescence.
With its effortless preparation and charming presentation in a copper mug, this cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at holiday parties. If you’re seeking a mouthwatering and stress-free Thanksgiving cocktail, the Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is an excellent choice to try.
Busted Pipe
Looking for a Thanksgiving cocktail that embodies warmth and coziness? The Busted Pipe Amaro Cocktail is a perfect fit. This delightful concoction combines the earthy notes of amaro with the richness of bourbon, complemented by a cherry and lemon peel garnish. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate the complexity of amaro or the smoothness of bourbon.
What makes this cocktail truly special is its rich history, born out of necessity during the Snowpocalypse of 2021 when a group of friends sought solace in a warming drink to soothe their bellies and lift their spirits. Drawing inspiration from classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned, Black Manhattan, or Paper Plane, the Busted Pipe offers a fresh twist on tradition. As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, consider giving this charming cocktail a try.
Cranberry Old Fashioned
The Cranberry Old Fashioned is an innovative twist on the classic cocktail, expertly crafted with a cranberry simple syrup, high-quality bourbon, and a hint of bitters. This harmonious blend creates a delightful flavor profile that balances the tartness of the cranberry with the richness of the bourbon, resulting in a truly unique taste experience.
As a show-stopping addition to your Thanksgiving celebration, this elegant cocktail is sure to impress your guests and elevate the overall ambiance of your holiday gathering. With its bold yet refined flavor profile, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is an ideal choice for those seeking to create a memorable impression at their next social event.
The Black Manhattan Cocktail
This Thanksgiving, elevate your cocktail game with the sophisticated Black Manhattan. A twist on the classic Manhattan, it combines bourbon with bittersweet Averna amaro and two types of bitters to create a complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a bourbon or rye aficionado, this grown-up drink is perfect for sipping while taking in the autumn scenery from your favorite chair.
Consider shaking things up this year by mixing up a batch of Black Manhattans for your guests – they’ll appreciate the effort and complexity.
Bourbon Grapefruit Smash
This Thanksgiving, elevate your cocktail game with the Bourbon Grapefruit Smash, a wintry twist on the classic Bourbon Smash. The addition of fresh rosemary and grapefruit juice infuses the drink with depth and complexity, while Lillet blanc adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the flavors. With its bold flavor profile and ease of preparation in large batches, this cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests. In fact, they’ll be begging for the recipe after just one sip!
Amaretto Bourbon Cocktail
Elevate your Thanksgiving celebrations with a one-of-a-kind bourbon cocktail that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. The Amaretto Bourbon Cocktail with Red Wine Float is a game-changer, combining the rich flavors of amaretto with the boldness of bourbon and finishing it off with a velvety red wine float. This complex concoction is slightly sweet and utterly unique, making it a must-have for any Thanksgiving gathering.
Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or just looking to spice up your cocktail game, this show-stopping drink is sure to impress. So why settle for the same old cocktails when you can shake things up with the Amaretto Bourbon Cocktail? Try it out this holiday season and discover a new level of sophistication in your social gatherings.
Bourbon Manhattan
The Manhattan’s cousin, the Bourbon Manhattan, is an autumnal delight that harmonizes with the festive atmosphere of Thanksgiving. This timeless American cocktail combines the warmth of bourbon whiskey, the subtle sweetness of sweet Italian vermouth, and the tanginess of bitters. When skillfully balanced, these flavors meld together to create a rich, velvety drink that’s both smoky and herbaceous.
As a result, the Bourbon Manhattan is an effortless sipper for chilly evenings, perfect for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a comforting treat.
Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
Satisfy your sweet and strong cravings with the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail, a delectable concoction that embodies the essence of pecan pie in liquid form. This indulgent drink perfectly blends the richness of bourbon and vodka to create a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether served over ice or as a martini, its velvety texture is sure to impress. The addition of crunchy pecans as a garnish adds a delightful visual touch, making it an ideal choice for your Thanksgiving celebration.
As the perfect after-dinner drink, this bourbon-based cocktail is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail
Transforming the classic Campari cocktail into a sophisticated haven, the Blood Orange Boulevardier brings together the perfect balance of sweet-tart flavors with bourbon. The addition of blood orange juice injects a burst of intensity that pairs harmoniously with the rich notes of bourbon. As the seasons change and cooler days arrive, this cocktail is designed to be savored slowly in front of a warm fire, its complex flavors unfolding with each deliberate sip.
The crowning glory lies in the subtle yet elegant garnish – a slice of blood orange or a twist of orange rind – which adds an air of sophistication and whimsy. If you’re seeking a distinctive and flavorful cocktail to impress your guests this Thanksgiving, look no further than the Blood Orange Boulevardier, a true showstopper that’s sure to delight.
Gold Rush Cocktail
The Gold Rush Cocktail is a timeless classic that combines the warmth of whiskey with the sweetness of honey syrup and the brightness of fresh lemon juice. For those running low on gin, this alternative to the Bee’s Knees cocktail is a welcome respite. The addition of fresh rosemary and Applejack brandy gives the drink a distinctive autumnal flair. Whether served over ice or in a chilled coupe, the Gold Rush Cocktail provides a refreshing and silky-smooth drinking experience.
As the seasons change and Thanksgiving approaches, this cocktail is an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated yet approachable beverage to serve at their holiday gatherings.
Maple Bourbon Aperol Spritz
Imagine sipping on a warm and inviting cocktail that captures the essence of both summer and fall. Enter the Maple Bourbon Aperol Spritz, a delightful concoction that brings together the familiar flavors of Aperol and orange with the added depth of bourbon and the richness of pure maple syrup. As the perfect accompaniment to cozy nights by the fire or festive holiday gatherings, this unique blend of flavors is sure to delight your guests and make for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration.
With the subtle effervescence of Prosecco adding a celebratory touch, this cocktail is an ideal choice for any occasion that calls for warmth, comfort, and joy.
The Scofflaw
Impress your guests this Thanksgiving with a twist on a classic cocktail: ‘The Scofflaw.’ Named after those who defied Prohibition by drinking illegally, this sweet and tangy concoction is a masterclass in balance. The harmonious blend of bourbon, lemon juice, and grenadine (or pomegranate molasses) is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
While tradition calls for straining the cocktail into a chilled glass, don’t be afraid to shake things up by serving it over ice if that’s your style. Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or just looking to add some excitement to your holiday gatherings, ‘The Scofflaw’ is the perfect recipe to try.
Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail
This Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is an ideal Thanksgiving Bourbon recipe that masterfully blends sweet and smoky notes. The drink’s foundation is built upon smoked cherries, infused with a hint of smokiness through muddling, while Anastoga bitters and campfire whiskey add depth to the mix. A splash of smoked cherry simple syrup further amplifies the complex flavors.
As you take a sip, the rich, musky undertones meld harmoniously with the subtle wisps of smoke, tempered by the sweetness of seasonal cherries. The citrusy twist adds a vibrant note to each glass, served in a short tumbler-like vessel that exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere – making it an absolute delight for sipping during the holiday season.
Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz Cocktail
The Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz Cocktail is an ideal addition to any Thanksgiving celebration. By combining bourbon, apple cider, and sparkling wine or apple cider, you’ll create a refreshing drink that’s perfect for a crowd. The key element in this cocktail is a homemade syrup that infuses the beverage with a distinctive flavor. What’s more, this recipe allows you to adjust the level of booziness to suit individual tastes – simply substitute sparkling apple cider for the bourbon if preferred.
The syrup can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy holiday gatherings. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests and serve as a fantastic way to kick off your Thanksgiving festivities.
Smoked Manhattan With Cinnamon
This autumnal twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail is an ideal choice for Thanksgiving gatherings. By combining rich bourbon flavors with sweet vermouth, bitters, and maraschino cherry syrup, the drink achieves a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes. The introduction of smoky burnt cinnamon elevates this libation to new heights, making it a perfect offering for happy hour or as a sophisticated after-dinner sipper.
The aromatic warmth of the cinnamon is further enhanced by burning the stick, imbuing the cocktail with an unmistakable smokiness that complements smoked meats and cheese, homemade pizza, or hearty flatbread toppings alike. If you’re seeking a show-stopping cocktail to wow your guests this Thanksgiving, the Smoked Manhattan with Cinnamon is a must-try.
Pomegranate Manhattan
The Pomegranate Manhattan brings a touch of modern elegance to the classic cocktail scene, making it an ideal choice for Thanksgiving celebrations. This innovative drink combines the richness of bourbon with the subtle sweetness of sweet vermouth, the tartness of pomegranate juice, and the depth of bitters, resulting in a truly exceptional beverage. The addition of fresh rosemary and pomegranate arils creates a visually stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
For bourbon enthusiasts seeking a unique and flavorful cocktail to serve at their holiday gatherings, the Pomegranate Manhattan is an absolute must-try.
Pomegranate Old Fashioned
This Thanksgiving, elevate your holiday gatherings with the Pomegranate Old Fashioned, a timeless cocktail given a seasonal boost by the tangy addition of pomegranate juice. With its rich flavor profile and vibrant orange garnish, this modern twist on a 19th-century classic is sure to delight your guests. A nod to tradition meets innovative flair in this expertly balanced concoction, perfect for adding warmth and sophistication to your holiday celebrations.
