As the aroma of roasting turkey wafts through the air and the sounds of laughter and conversation fill the room, it’s hard not to feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life. And what better way to express that gratitude than with a delicious cocktail? As a bartender, I’ve had the pleasure of crafting many a Thanksgiving drink, and I’m excited to share some of my favorites with you.
From warm, spicy concoctions that evoke the flavors of fall to sweet, fruity drinks that complement the traditional feast, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, so you can focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones rather than stressing over complicated ingredients or techniques.
Whether you’re looking for a festive drink to serve at your Thanksgiving dinner or just want to cozy up by the fire with a warm cup and a good book, I’ve got you covered.
Tarragon Carrot Shrub
Impress your guests this Thanksgiving by serving a unique and flavorful cocktail that’s sure to delight both drink enthusiasts and novices alike. The Tarragon Carrot Shrub, with its harmonious blend of earthy carrot sweetness, herbaceous tarragon notes, and subtle kick from vodka and gin, is the perfect choice for a sophisticated gathering. Not only will it tantalize your taste buds, but its refreshing effervescence will keep you coming back for more.
For those who prefer to abstain or have non-drinking guests, simply mix the shrub with sparkling water to create a delightful, bubbly treat that’s sure to please. Whichever way you choose to serve it, the Tarragon Carrot Shrub is a surefire winner that will elevate your Thanksgiving celebration to new heights.
Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, there’s no better way to warm up than with the Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned. This delightful concoction combines homemade spiced chai simple syrup, rich bourbon, invigorating winter citrus, subtle vanilla notes, and a splash of fizzy sparkling water. The key to this drink’s charm lies in its expertly balanced flavors: neither too sweet nor overpowering, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests feeling cozy and welcome.
Whether you’re hosting friends or family for the holidays, the Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is an excellent choice to make them feel at home.
Harvest Apple Spritz
The Harvest Apple Spritz is a delightful concoction that embodies the warmth and vibrancy of Thanksgiving. Its harmonious blend of fresh apple juice, vodka, orange liqueur, lemon, and a hint of spice from ginger and sage syrup creates a sweet and tangy flavor profile. The addition of sparkling water lends a lively touch, transforming this cocktail into a refreshing pitcher-style drink perfect for social gatherings.
With its effortless preparation and ability to be made ahead of time, the Harvest Apple Spritz is an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining on Turkey Day. If you’re seeking a seasonal and delectable cocktail that will impress your guests, look no further than this festive favorite.
Pumpkin Pie Martini
Indulge in the warm, fuzzy feelings of the holiday season with the Pumpkin Pie Martini, a delectable blend of limited-edition pumpkin pie spiced creme liqueur and vanilla vodka. This velvety concoction is sure to delight both enthusiasts and newcomers alike, as its rich flavors of vanilla, brown sugar, and spices weave together in perfect harmony. For an added touch of whimsy, top it off with a dollop of Reddi-wip and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just want to add some cheer to your Thanksgiving celebration, this cocktail is sure to leave your guests feeling grateful and impressed.
Thanksgiving Sparkling Cocktail
Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving or a traditional family gathering, a refreshing cocktail can elevate the ambiance of your Thanksgiving celebration. The Thanksgiving Sparkling Cocktail is an ideal choice for the occasion. By combining vodka, apple juice, cranberry juice, and champagne or prosecco, you’ll create a delightful drink that’s both easy to make in large quantities and perfect for sipping alongside your holiday feast.
The interplay between the tartness of the cranberry and the sweetness of the apple juices creates a harmonious flavor profile, while the effervescence from the champagne or prosecco adds a celebratory touch. This cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent way to toast your loved ones on Turkey Day. So why not give it a try this year and make your Thanksgiving celebration even more memorable?
Cranberry Thyme Gin and Tonic
Add some festive flair to your Thanksgiving gathering with the Cranberry Thyme Gin and Tonic, a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors. This refreshing cocktail is an innovative way to repurpose leftover cranberries and thyme from your Turkey Day feast, allowing you to enjoy them in a whole new light. With its effortless preparation and stress-free advance make-ahead capability, this drink is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday celebration.
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or simply seeking a novel spin on the classic G&T, the Cranberry Thyme Gin and Tonic is sure to delight your guests and create an unforgettable atmosphere. This year, why not elevate your Thanksgiving cocktail hour with a unique twist that will leave a lasting impression?
Apple Cider Cocktail
For many, the quintessential fall drink is one that embodies the cozy and inviting qualities of the season. The Apple Cider Cocktail is just that – a delightful blend of apple cider, cinnamon spice, and thyme that yields a smooth, fruity flavor profile. By garnishing with fresh apple slices or a cinnamon stick, you’ll add an extra layer of visual appeal to this already impressive cocktail.
What’s more, the recipe lends itself well to being adapted for both boozy and non-boozy guests alike, making it a versatile choice for your Thanksgiving gathering. This drink is equally at home accompanying a wide range of dishes and is remarkably easy to prepare. All in all, the Apple Cider Cocktail is a scrumptious and festive addition to any autumn celebration.
Apple Brandy Allspice Fizz Cocktail
If the thought of a classic Thanksgiving dinner isn’t enough to get you excited, why not elevate the experience with a unique and refreshing cocktail that complements the flavors of the season? The Apple Brandy Allspice Fizz is a perfect choice, combining the warmth of apple brandy with the spices of allspice and the effervescence of soda. This tart and flavorful drink is sure to please even the most discerning palates, making it an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving celebration.
And don’t worry about overindulging – the light and refreshing nature of this cocktail means you can enjoy one (or two) without feeling too full or lethargic afterwards. Whether you’re a fan of apple-based cocktails or just looking for something new to try, the Apple Brandy Allspice Fizz is an excellent choice.
Thanksgiving Margarita
Sip into the spirit of Thanksgiving with this innovative Margarita recipe, expertly blending fall flavors and colors to evoke autumn’s cozy charm. For those seeking a departure from traditional cocktails, this unique concoction is sure to delight. The secret ingredient? Pear juice, which may require a quick online search for availability. To elevate the experience, consider adding a pop of color with colored salt or sugar on the rim.
This show-stopping drink will leave your guests in awe and add a memorable touch to your Thanksgiving festivities.
Cranberry Thyme Spritz
This Cranberry Thyme Spritz is an ideal cocktail for Thanksgiving gatherings, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors with a subtle hint of thyme. The combination of vodka, elderflower liquor, and honey provides a smooth base, while the grapefruit and lime juice add a tangy citrus twist. The inclusion of cranberries not only balances out the drink’s acidity but also adds a pop of color.
As a bonus, this cocktail is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a surefire hit with your guests.
Cranberry Old Fashioned
For those who adore classic Old Fashioneds but crave a festive twist, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is an absolute must-try Thanksgiving cocktail. This delectable drink features a cranberry simple syrup that imbues it with a stunning red hue and a tangy, fruity flavor profile. When paired with quality bourbon and bitters, the result is a warm and inviting finish that’s sure to leave you feeling cozy on chilly fall evenings.
Whether you’re looking for a unique cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering or simply want to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is an excellent choice that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Vanilla Chai Tea White Russian
For a warm and inviting Thanksgiving cocktail experience, consider serving the Vanilla Chai Tea White Russian. This creamy and flavorful drink combines the classic White Russian with a rich vanilla chai tea simple syrup, perfect for sipping on throughout the holiday or serving to guests at your festive gathering. The chai syrup is made by intensifying the flavor of chai tea through concentration, sweetening it with honey, and infusing it with the warmth of vanilla.
When mixed with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream, this cocktail creates a delightful and satisfying drink that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you’re entertaining friends or savoring a quiet moment with loved ones after the Thanksgiving feast, the Vanilla Chai Tea White Russian is sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Blood Orange and Cranberry Punch
For a revitalizing and elegant Thanksgiving drink, look no further than the Blood Orange and Cranberry Punch. A harmonious blend of gin, Master of Mixes Blood Orange Margarita Mix, and sparkling dry champagne, this refreshing concoction embodies notes of cranberry, mint, and citrus. With its crisp, fruity flavor profile, it’s an ideal choice for a crowd-pleasing cocktail that’s sure to impress at any Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving celebration.
The key to keeping the punch chilled without diluting it lies in the addition of frozen whole cranberries. Simply combine these with your other ingredients and top off with champagne for a festive touch. To complete the look, garnish with fresh mint leaves and dehydrated oranges for an added pop of color and flavor. This delightful drink is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Smash
As the seasons change, there’s no better time to warm up with a classic cocktail like the Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Smash. This delightful drink combines the smooth richness of WhistlePig 10 Year Straight Rye Whiskey with the invigorating zing of crisp apple and fresh mint. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it’s a true showstopper for any Thanksgiving gathering. And the best part? It’s as easy to make in bulk as it is to enjoy on its own.
With its effortless charm and cozy appeal, this cocktail is sure to become a new favorite among friends and family alike.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Transform your Thanksgiving gathering into a sophisticated affair with the Pumpkin Spice White Russian, a delectable twist on the classic cocktail. By marrying fragrant coffee and warming pumpkin spices, this creamy concoction embodies the essence of a warm hug in a glass. While even the most ardent pumpkin spice skeptics will find themselves enamored with its refined flavors, it’s sure to delight your guests and elevate your celebration with an air of sophistication.
Pomegranate Martini
The Pomegranate Martini is an exceptional choice for Thanksgiving celebrations, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and a visually stunning presentation. This unique twist on the classic martini combines the sweetness of pomegranate seeds with the subtle earthiness of rosemary, creating a truly unforgettable drinking experience. The addition of fresh lemon juice and orange liqueur adds a delightful balance to the drink’s flavor profile.
When served with gold sugar, pomegranate seeds, and sprigs of fresh rosemary, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and elevate any holiday gathering.
Smoky Harvest Apple Cider Margarita
This Thanksgiving, elevate your gathering with a one-of-a-kind cocktail that embodies the cozy essence of fall. The Smoky Harvest Apple Cider Margarita masterfully blends smoky mezcal (or tequila) with spiced apple cider, orange liqueur, lime, and maple syrup for a harmonious balance of flavors. A cinnamon sugar rim adds a touch of sweetness, while the garnishes – featuring crisp apple slices, fragrant rosemary, and a smoking cinnamon stick – transform this drink into a truly special experience.
With its ease of preparation and tried-and-true popularity, this margarita is sure to impress your guests with its festive flair and mouthwatering taste.
Cranberry French 75
Elevate your Thanksgiving celebrations with the Cranberry French 75, a harmonious blend of London Dry Gin’s crispness, cranberry simple syrup’s tanginess, and brut champagne’s effervescence. This expertly balanced cocktail is sure to wow your guests, thanks to its refreshing combination of flavors. To add an extra touch of festivity, simply add frozen cranberries, which not only chill the drink but also provide a beautiful garnish.
With its effortless preparation and sophisticated charm, the Cranberry French 75 is the ideal choice for any Thanksgiving gathering.
Chai Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail
As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisp, there’s no better way to warm up than with a Chai Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail. This autumnal libation combines the sweetness of fresh apple cider with the rich spices of homemade chai syrup, creating a truly unique taste experience that can be enjoyed by all, whether as a mocktail or a cocktail. What’s more, the recipe is remarkably easy to follow, making it a great choice for bartenders of any skill level.
Whether served chilled and refreshing on a fall day or warmed up for a cozy Thanksgiving gathering, this drink is sure to become a new favorite. With its versatility and delicious flavor profile, the Chai Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to add some festive flair to their holiday celebrations.
Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch
Get ready to spice up your Thanksgiving celebrations with a refreshing twist on a classic cocktail! The Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch is an easy-to-make, festive concoction that combines the warmth of homemade cranberry-orange syrup with the boldness of bourbon and a splash of citrus. The real showstopper, however, is the addition of sweet candied rosemary, which adds a stunning visual touch to the drink. This recipe can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for holiday entertaining.
With its harmonious blend of flavors and striking presentation, this cocktail is sure to delight bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
For those who adore pecan pie but crave a novel way to enjoy it, the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail is an exemplary choice for Thanksgiving celebrations. By combining bourbon and vodka, this sweet yet potent drink achieves a harmonious balance between the richness of pecan pie flavors and the sharpness of the liquor. Whether served over ice or as a martini, this cocktail can be elevated with the added crunch of pecans.
If you’re seeking a unique and delectable concoction to serve at your Thanksgiving gathering, the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail is undoubtedly worth exploring.
Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail
This festive twist on the classic vodka sour cocktail combines the warm spices of ginger and cinnamon with the bright, floral flavor of hibiscus tea. The result is a sweet and tangy drink that’s perfectly balanced by the addition of egg whites or aquafaba, which creates a silky, foamy texture. The hibiscus adds a touch of sophistication to this cocktail, making it an excellent choice for special occasions like Thanksgiving.
With its easy-to-make recipe and unique flavor profile, this Spiced Hibiscus Vodka Sour Cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Apple Cider Sangria
Give your Thanksgiving gathering a festive twist with the Apple Cider Sangria, a unique cocktail that combines the traditional Spanish drink with fall flavors. The addition of apple cider and Crown Royal Regal Apple Whisky infuses the beverage with warm spices and fruit notes, reminiscent of the season’s cozy atmosphere. The pomegranate seeds, cinnamon sticks, and star anise add a pop of color and fragrance, while the sparkling cider or wine provides a delightful effervescence.
Whether you’re seeking a signature drink to wow your guests or simply want to try something new, this refreshing cocktail is sure to be a hit on Turkey Day.
Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz Cocktail
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, you’re likely seeking ways to elevate your celebration with a unique and refreshing cocktail. The Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz is an excellent addition to your gathering, offering a harmonious blend of bourbon, apple cider, and sparkling wine that will tantalize your taste buds. What’s more, the syrup preparation is surprisingly effortless, making it an ideal choice for large gatherings.
For those who prefer a slightly less potent cocktail, consider substituting bourbon with sparkling apple cider. The effervescence added by the fizz gives this drink a delightful zest, perfect for sipping on while enjoying your Thanksgiving feast with loved ones. Give this recipe a try and amaze your guests with your impressive bartending skills.
Smoked Gin and Tonic With Rosemary
Looking to elevate your Thanksgiving celebrations with a show-stopping cocktail? Look no further than the Smoked Gin and Tonic with Rosemary. This innovative twist on the classic gin and tonic combines smoky flavors with rosemary simple syrup, resulting in a complex yet harmonious drinking experience.
The smokiness adds depth and intensity to the cocktail, while the rosemary subtly complements the gin’s primary characteristics.
With only a few essential ingredients required, this recipe is simplicity itself, making it an excellent choice for your holiday gathering. As the perfect accompaniment to warm conversations with loved ones, the Smoked Gin and Tonic with Rosemary is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Hazelnut Frangelico Sour
Elevate your Thanksgiving gathering with a one-of-a-kind cocktail that will leave your guests impressed. The Hazelnut Frangelico Sour is a masterclass in flavor complexity, marrying the rich, nutty sweetness of Frangelico hazelnut liqueur with the bright, tangy zing of lime juice. This tantalizing combination is further elevated by the inclusion of egg whites, which imbue the drink with a light, airy texture that’s as delightful to behold as it is to sip.
Whether served as a sophisticated after-dinner refresher or enjoyed by the fire on a crisp fall evening, this show-stopping cocktail is sure to become an instant holiday classic.
