Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to raise a glass and celebrate the season. As you prepare for your holiday gathering, why not elevate the occasion with some delightful cocktails that reflect the warmth and flavors of fall?
In this article, we’ve curated over 30 Thanksgiving cocktail recipes that will impress your guests and add a festive touch to your table. From classic favorites to innovative concoctions, these drinks are designed to complement your Thanksgiving feast and create lasting memories.
Whether you’re looking for something refreshing, cozy, or creatively inspired by seasonal ingredients, you’ll find the perfect libation to toast to gratitude and joy.
30+ Delicious Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes to Impress Your Guests
As you gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, these 30+ cocktail recipes are sure to enhance your holiday experience. Each drink not only offers a unique flavor profile but also embodies the spirit of the season, making it easy to create a festive atmosphere.
From the rich and creamy Pumpkin Spice White Russian to the light and refreshing Harvest Apple Sangria, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, as you prepare your Thanksgiving feast, don’t forget to include these delightful cocktails in your plans.
Raise your glass to good health, cherished moments, and the beauty of togetherness this holiday season!
Cranberry Orange Spritz
The Cranberry Orange Spritz is a festive cocktail that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty flavor of fresh oranges. This refreshing drink is perfect for holiday gatherings, as it adds a burst of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. The effervescence from the sparkling wine makes it a delightful choice to kick off the celebrations, leaving your guests feeling merry and bright.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
- 1 cup prosecco or any sparkling wine
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- Orange slices and fresh cranberries for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, fresh orange juice, and sparkling water. Stir gently to mix the flavors.
- Just before serving, add the prosecco to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cocktail mixture over the ice.
- Garnish each glass with an orange slice and a few fresh cranberries for an extra festive touch.
The Cranberry Orange Spritz is not just a drink; it’s an experience that encapsulates the spirit of Thanksgiving. The balance of sweetness and tartness, paired with the bubbles of sparkling wine, creates a joyful atmosphere perfect for sharing stories and laughter around the table. Serve this cocktail alongside your Thanksgiving feast, and watch as your guests toast to a holiday filled with love and gratitude.
Spiced Apple Cider Mule
The Spiced Apple Cider Mule is a warm, comforting cocktail that combines the classic flavors of apple cider with the kick of ginger beer and a hint of spice. This drink embodies the essence of fall and is ideal for cozy Thanksgiving gatherings. It’s a great way to enjoy the seasonal flavors while providing a refreshing twist on the traditional Moscow Mule.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz apple cider
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz ginger beer
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg for garnish
- Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the apple cider, vodka, and fresh lime juice. Shake well to mix the ingredients.
- Fill a copper mug (or any glass) with ice cubes and strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with apple slices, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and nutmeg, and a cinnamon stick for stirring.
The Spiced Apple Cider Mule is the perfect blend of warmth and spice, making it an ideal cocktail for chilly Thanksgiving evenings. The combination of sweet apple cider, tangy lime, and bubbly ginger beer creates a drink that is both refreshing and comforting. Serve this cocktail in copper mugs to enhance the festive feel, and enjoy the cozy ambiance it brings as you celebrate with family and friends. Each sip will remind you of the beauty of the season and the joy of togetherness.
Maple Bourbon Smash
The Maple Bourbon Smash is a robust cocktail that celebrates the deep flavors of bourbon and the natural sweetness of maple syrup. This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving, as it embodies the rich, earthy tones associated with the holiday. With a hint of mint and fresh citrus, it’s a delightful balance of flavors that warms the soul and elevates your Thanksgiving experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz pure maple syrup
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- Fresh mint leaves
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle a few fresh mint leaves with maple syrup and lemon juice to release the mint’s aroma.
- Add bourbon and ice to the shaker, then shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh mint for a refreshing touch.
The Maple Bourbon Smash is not only a cocktail but a celebration of the flavors of fall. The rich bourbon paired with the sweetness of maple syrup creates a comforting drink that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It’s a perfect companion to your Thanksgiving meal, bringing a sophisticated touch to your festivities. As you sip this delightful cocktail, you’ll appreciate the blend of flavors and the memories created with loved ones, making your holiday truly special.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a delicious twist on the classic White Russian, infusing it with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice. Perfect for Thanksgiving, this creamy cocktail combines the richness of coffee liqueur, the smoothness of vodka, and the seasonal essence of pumpkin. It’s a great way to enjoy dessert in a glass, making it a must-have at your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 2 oz pumpkin spice creamer
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg for garnish
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice creamer.
- Shake well to mix the ingredients and chill the drink.
- Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top with whipped cream (if desired) and sprinkle with ground cinnamon and nutmeg for garnish.
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a creamy and indulgent cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Its rich flavors and velvety texture make it an ideal dessert drink for Thanksgiving, inviting guests to indulge in the festive spirit. Serve this delightful concoction after dinner as a sweet treat, and watch as it becomes a new holiday favorite. Each sip will remind you of cozy evenings spent with loved ones and the warmth of the season.
Pomegranate Gin Fizz
The Pomegranate Gin Fizz is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines the botanical notes of gin with the tartness of pomegranate juice and the fizz of soda water. This colorful drink adds a festive touch to your Thanksgiving table, making it a beautiful and delicious option for holiday celebrations. Its light, crisp flavor profile is perfect for complementing the rich dishes typical of Thanksgiving feasts.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup (optional, to taste)
- Soda water
- Pomegranate seeds and lemon slices for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the gin, pomegranate juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup (if using).
- Shake well to combine and chill the mixture.
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and strain the cocktail mixture over the ice.
- Top with soda water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a slice of lemon for an extra festive touch.
The Pomegranate Gin Fizz is a dazzling cocktail that brings a burst of flavor and color to your Thanksgiving celebrations. The combination of gin and pomegranate juice creates a refreshing balance that cleanses the palate, making it a wonderful companion to your holiday feast. This cocktail not only looks stunning but also tastes fantastic, providing a perfect way to toast to gratitude and togetherness. Enjoy this light and effervescent drink as you share cherished moments with family and friends.
Harvest Mule
The Harvest Mule is a seasonal variation of the classic Moscow Mule, featuring the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon. This cocktail is a delightful way to celebrate Thanksgiving, as it incorporates the essence of autumn in every sip. With its refreshing ginger beer base and the sweetness of apple cider, the Harvest Mule is sure to please your guests and keep the holiday spirit alive.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz apple cider
- 1 oz vodka
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 3 oz ginger beer
- Cinnamon stick and apple slices for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a copper mug (or any glass), combine the apple cider, vodka, and fresh lime juice.
- Fill the mug with ice cubes and stir gently to mix the ingredients.
- Top with ginger beer and stir again to combine.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slices for a festive touch.
The Harvest Mule is a charming cocktail that encapsulates the flavors of the season while offering a refreshing twist on a classic drink. Its balance of sweetness from the apple cider and spice from the ginger beer makes it a delightful option for Thanksgiving gatherings. As you sip this seasonal cocktail, you’ll be reminded of the warmth of autumn and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones. Serve the Harvest Mule at your holiday festivities, and enjoy the smiles it brings to your guests’ faces.
Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned
The Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned is a sophisticated twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, infused with the rich flavors of maple syrup and a hint of warm cinnamon. This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a cozy and inviting flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the rich foods of the season. With its simple yet elegant preparation, it’s sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- ½ oz pure maple syrup
- 2 dashes of aromatic bitters
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Orange peel for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon (or rye whiskey), maple syrup, and aromatic bitters. Add ice cubes and stir until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an expressed orange peel for added aroma.
The Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned is a delightful cocktail that captures the essence of fall in every sip. The warmth of the bourbon, paired with the sweetness of maple syrup and the spiciness of cinnamon, creates a comforting drink that perfectly complements the Thanksgiving feast. Serve this elegant cocktail as a pre-dinner treat or alongside dessert, allowing your guests to savor its rich flavors as they celebrate the holiday. Each sip will evoke the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of sharing cherished moments.
Ginger Pear Sparkler
The Ginger Pear Sparkler is a refreshing cocktail that combines the sweet and subtle flavors of ripe pears with the spiciness of ginger and the effervescence of sparkling wine. This cocktail is an excellent choice for Thanksgiving, providing a light and vibrant option that balances out the hearty dishes typically served at the holiday table. Its beautiful presentation and delightful taste will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz pear nectar or pear juice
- 1 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
- 3 oz sparkling wine (such as prosecco or champagne)
- Fresh pear slices for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the pear nectar and ginger liqueur. Shake well to chill the mixture.
- Strain the mixture into a champagne flute or a tall glass filled with ice.
- Top with sparkling wine and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh pear slices for an elegant touch.
The Ginger Pear Sparkler is a delightful and refreshing addition to your Thanksgiving cocktail lineup. Its combination of fruity and spicy flavors creates a balanced drink that is both invigorating and festive. This cocktail is perfect for toasting to gratitude and celebrating the joy of togetherness. Serve the Ginger Pear Sparkler as a welcome drink to set a cheerful tone for your holiday gathering, and watch as your guests savor its delicious taste and beautiful presentation.
Sage and Citrus Martini
The Sage and Citrus Martini is a sophisticated cocktail that highlights the aromatic flavors of fresh sage and zesty citrus. This unique drink adds a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving celebrations, making it an impressive choice for those looking to elevate their cocktail offerings. The combination of gin or vodka with herbal notes and bright citrus creates a refreshing and balanced beverage that complements a variety of dishes.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin or vodka
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz fresh orange juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Fresh sage leaves
- Lemon twist for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle a few fresh sage leaves to release their aroma.
- Add the gin (or vodka), fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake well until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist and a sage leaf for an elegant presentation.
The Sage and Citrus Martini is a sophisticated cocktail that brings a unique blend of flavors to your Thanksgiving table. The herbal notes of sage, combined with the bright citrus juices, create a refreshing drink that perfectly balances the richness of holiday meals. This cocktail is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it a stunning addition to your celebration. Serve the Sage and Citrus Martini as a pre-dinner drink or during dessert, and watch as your guests enjoy its refreshing complexity.
Cranberry Orange Mimosa
The Cranberry Orange Mimosa is a festive and refreshing twist on the traditional mimosa, perfect for Thanksgiving brunch or as a welcome drink. This vibrant cocktail combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the sweetness of fresh orange juice, topped with sparkling wine for a bubbly finish. Its beautiful color and delightful flavor make it a cheerful addition to your holiday table, sure to please all your guests.
Ingredients:
- 3 oz cranberry juice (100% juice)
- 2 oz fresh orange juice
- 3 oz sparkling wine (such as champagne or prosecco)
- Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
- In a champagne flute, combine the cranberry juice and fresh orange juice. If you prefer a chilled drink, add ice cubes to the flute before pouring.
- Slowly top with sparkling wine, pouring gently to preserve the bubbles.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a slice of orange for an eye-catching presentation.
The Cranberry Orange Mimosa is a delightful cocktail that captures the spirit of Thanksgiving with its bright flavors and festive appearance. This refreshing drink is perfect for toasting to good health and happiness during your holiday celebration. Serve it during brunch or as guests arrive, and watch as it brings smiles and cheers all around. With its balance of tart and sweet, this mimosa will quickly become a favorite for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Spiced Apple Cider Margarita
The Spiced Apple Cider Margarita is a creative and flavorful twist on the classic margarita, perfect for Thanksgiving. This cocktail combines the warm flavors of spiced apple cider with the tangy notes of tequila and lime, creating a refreshing yet cozy drink. It’s a unique way to incorporate seasonal flavors into your holiday celebration, making it a memorable choice for your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila (reposado for a smoother flavor)
- 2 oz spiced apple cider
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz agave syrup (optional, to taste)
- Cinnamon and sugar for rimming the glass
- Lime wheel and apple slice for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- To rim the glass, combine equal parts cinnamon and sugar on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass and dip it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, spiced apple cider, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup (if using).
- Shake well until chilled and strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a thin apple slice for an attractive finish.
The Spiced Apple Cider Margarita is a festive and fun cocktail that brings together the flavors of Thanksgiving in a refreshing way. This drink balances the sweetness of apple cider with the bright acidity of lime, while the tequila adds a kick that will keep the festivities lively. Serve this unique margarita at your holiday gathering and delight your guests with a flavor they won’t forget. With its perfect blend of seasonal spices, this cocktail is sure to become a holiday favorite.
Cinnamon Apple Fizz
The Cinnamon Apple Fizz is a delightful cocktail that combines the crispness of fresh apple juice with the warm flavors of cinnamon and ginger beer. This effervescent drink is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a refreshing and spicy option that complements the rich flavors of the holiday meal. Its bright, bubbly character makes it an excellent choice for a celebratory toast, embodying the spirit of the season.
Ingredients:
- 4 oz fresh apple juice
- 1 oz cinnamon syrup (or homemade cinnamon simple syrup)
- 3 oz ginger beer
- Fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a tall glass filled with ice cubes, combine the fresh apple juice and cinnamon syrup. Stir gently to mix.
- Top with ginger beer and stir lightly to combine the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
The Cinnamon Apple Fizz is a refreshing and bubbly cocktail that captures the essence of fall with its combination of apple and cinnamon flavors. This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving, providing a light and invigorating option to balance out the hearty holiday dishes. Serve the Cinnamon Apple Fizz as a welcome drink or during the meal, and watch as it brings a sense of celebration to your gathering. Its delightful flavor and festive presentation will leave your guests craving more as they toast to the joy of the season.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a decadent cocktail that marries the creamy goodness of the classic White Russian with the warm flavors of fall. This rich drink incorporates pumpkin spice, making it a perfect choice for Thanksgiving celebrations. The combination of coffee liqueur, vodka, and pumpkin-infused cream creates a luscious cocktail that embodies the spirit of the season, delighting both coffee lovers and pumpkin spice enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 2 oz pumpkin spice creamer (store-bought or homemade)
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes.
- In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka and coffee liqueur. Shake well to chill the mixture.
- Strain the mixture over the ice in the prepared glass.
- Slowly pour the pumpkin spice creamer over the top, allowing it to create a layered effect.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and nutmeg for added warmth and aroma.
The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a rich and indulgent cocktail that captures the essence of fall flavors, making it an ideal drink for your Thanksgiving gathering. Its creamy texture and comforting spice profile create a delightful experience for your taste buds, perfect for savoring as you unwind with friends and family. Serve this cocktail after dinner or alongside dessert to add a sweet touch to your celebration. Each sip will evoke the cozy warmth of the holiday season, leaving your guests feeling festive and satisfied.
Harvest Apple Sangria
The Harvest Apple Sangria is a vibrant and fruity cocktail that combines the crispness of apples with the refreshing flavors of wine and seasonal spices. This sangria is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, offering a light and fruity option that complements the richness of holiday dishes. The infusion of fresh fruits and aromatic spices creates a beautiful and flavorful drink that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup club soda
- 1 cup sliced apples (such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup sliced pears
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine the dry white wine, apple cider, and sliced apples and pears. Stir gently to mix.
- Add the pomegranate seeds and cinnamon sticks, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, add the club soda and stir to combine.
- Serve over ice in glasses and garnish with fresh sage leaves for an aromatic touch.
The Harvest Apple Sangria is a refreshing and festive cocktail that brings the flavors of the season to your Thanksgiving table. Its fruity profile and bubbly texture make it an excellent choice for a crowd, allowing guests to enjoy a delightful blend of flavors as they celebrate together. Serve this sangria in a large pitcher for a beautiful presentation and watch as your guests savor each sip. This cocktail not only tastes amazing but also adds a splash of color and festive cheer to your holiday gathering, embodying the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Pomegranate Bourbon Smash
The Pomegranate Bourbon Smash is a delightful cocktail that brings together the richness of bourbon with the tartness of fresh pomegranate juice. This cocktail is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a unique and vibrant option that stands out from the traditional offerings. The combination of fresh herbs and citrus adds complexity and freshness to the drink, making it a fantastic choice for toasting to gratitude and good times.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh pomegranate juice
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle a few fresh mint leaves to release their flavor.
- Add the bourbon, fresh pomegranate juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake well until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a few pomegranate seeds for an attractive finish.
The Pomegranate Bourbon Smash is a unique and flavorful cocktail that brings a refreshing twist to your Thanksgiving celebration. The combination of bourbon and pomegranate juice creates a beautiful balance of sweetness and tartness, while the fresh mint adds a hint of herbaceousness. This cocktail is perfect for sipping while mingling with guests or as a toast to the holiday spirit. Serve the Pomegranate Bourbon Smash at your gathering, and watch as your guests enjoy this festive and vibrant drink, celebrating the flavors of the season together.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
