As the holiday season approaches, many of us are busy planning menus and recipes for our loved ones. But what about the adults? It’s time to give some love to the festive cocktail recipes that will make your Thanksgiving celebration truly unforgettable! In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering and refreshing drinks that incorporate seasonal flavors like pumpkin, apple, and cranberry. From classic twists on old favorites to innovative creations, these Thanksgiving cocktails are sure to impress your guests.
From Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mules to Pumpkin Pie White Russians, Apple Cider Bourbon Smashes, and Maple Old Fashioneds, we’ve got you covered with the perfect drinks for your Turkey Day gathering…
Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule
Elevate your cocktail game with this festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule combines the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, making it a great addition to any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– 1/2 oz cranberry juice
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh cranberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink and drop it in.
6. Garnish with fresh cranberries.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pumpkin Pie White Russian
This seasonal take on the classic White Russian cocktail combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the smooth, creamy texture of vodka and coffee liqueur. Perfect for a chilly fall evening or as a unique addition to your holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces pumpkin-flavored vodka
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– Pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the pumpkin-flavored vodka, Kahlúa, and heavy cream.
3. Shake well to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add a dash of pumpkin puree on top, followed by a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and nutmeg.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Apple Cider Bourbon Smash
Warm up with this autumnal twist on the classic bourbon smash cocktail. Apple cider adds a sweet and tangy flavor to balance out the boldness of the bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3-4 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Apple slices or cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add 3-4 dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with apple slices or cinnamon sticks.
Cooking Time: None (this is a cocktail, not a dish!)
Maple Old Fashioned
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and smoky twist on the classic Old Fashioned. The addition of maple syrup adds a rich, velvety texture and a hint of subtle sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon or rye whiskey, maple syrup, and bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Enjoy your Maple Old Fashioned!
Cranberry Sage Gin Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Cranberry Sage Gin Fizz, perfect for a crisp autumn evening or any special occasion. This fizzy delight combines the tartness of cranberries with the subtlety of sage and the smoothness of gin.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup cranberry syrup (see note)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup
– 2 oz sparkling water
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, plus more for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, cranberry syrup, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with sparkling water.
6. Garnish with fresh sage leaves and a sprig of rosemary (optional).
Cooking Time: None
Note: Cranberry syrup can be made by simmering 1 cup cranberries, 1 cup sugar, and 2 cups water for 10-15 minutes, or using store-bought.
Thanksgiving Sangria with Pomegranate
Elevate your Thanksgiving celebrations with this refreshing twist on traditional sangria. This fruity and bubbly drink is perfect for the holiday season, featuring pomegranate’s sweet-tart flavor and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 1 cup mixed fruit juices (apple, grapefruit, and cranberry)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup triple sec or other orange-flavored liqueur
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– Slices of orange, lemon, lime, and apple for garnish
– Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for added flavor and visual appeal
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine wine, fruit juices, pomegranate juice, triple sec, and honey syrup.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice with slices of citrus fruits, apples, and cranberries as garnishes.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold drink!
Brown Butter Bourbon Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and velvety drink that combines the nutty flavors of brown butter with the smoothness of bourbon. This unique concoction is perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
– Ice cubes
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon, honey syrup, lemon juice, and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Add salt to taste.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pecan Pie Martini
Get ready to toast your taste buds with this decadent Pecan Pie Martini! Rich and creamy, this cocktail combines the flavors of pecans, caramel, and whiskey in a unique twist on the classic pie.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1 oz Caramel Syrup
– 1/2 oz Pecan-flavored Liqueur (or substitute with hazelnut or almond extract)
– 1/2 oz Heavy Cream
– 1/4 cup Crushed Pecans for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, caramel syrup, pecan liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with crushed pecans.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake and serve.
Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon
Escape the chill of winter with this comforting drink that’s sure to become a new favorite. Rich butter and sweet rum come together in perfect harmony, with a hint of warm cinnamon to spice things up.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot (1.5 oz) dark rum
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– Whipped cream and additional cinnamon for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the brown sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Stir in the rum and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Pour in the milk or heavy cream and continue heating until warm and frothy.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
6. Top with whipped cream and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Orange Mimosa
Elevate your brunch game with this refreshing twist on the classic mimosa. The addition of cranberry and orange creates a delightful harmony of flavors that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup champagne or sparkling wine
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup cranberry juice
– 1 tablespoon triple sec or other orange-flavored liqueur (optional)
– Slices of orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the champagne, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Add the orange and cranberry juices, stirring gently to combine.
4. If desired, add a splash of triple sec for added depth of flavor.
5. Stir again to combine.
6. Garnish with slices of orange.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Spiced Pear Prosecco Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this warm and bubbly Spiced Pear Prosecco Punch, perfect for serving at parties or special occasions. This unique recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the spiciness of cinnamon and cloves, all wrapped up in a glass of chilled Prosecco.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) Prosecco
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced pears and honey. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Just before serving, add the cinnamon stick and whole cloves to the pitcher.
3. Chill the Prosecco in the refrigerator.
4. To serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the Spiced Pear Prosecco Punch over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (infusing time)
Caramel Apple Whiskey Sour
This autumnal take on the whiskey sour combines the warmth of caramel and apple with the spice of cinnamon, perfect for a crisp fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz caramel syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Slice of apple for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lemon juice, caramel syrup, apple cider, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a pinch of cinnamon.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a slice of apple.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
Elevate your autumnal gatherings with this unique and delicious twist on the classic espresso martini. The combination of pumpkin puree, spice, and rich espresso will transport your taste buds to a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce pumpkin puree
– 1/2 ounce espresso
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, pumpkin puree, espresso, simple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
Cooking Time: None
Gingerbread Hot Toddy
This sweet and spicy drink combines the warmth of gingerbread with the soothing comfort of a hot toddy, perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed tea (black or green)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 shot of bourbon whiskey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine brewed tea and honey. Stir until the honey dissolves.
2. Add grated ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the mug. Stir well.
3. If desired, add a shot of bourbon whiskey to the mixture.
4. Pour hot water into the mug to fill it about 3/4 full.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma
This citrusy take on the classic Paloma cocktail combines the bright flavors of grapefruit and rosemary with tequila, lime, and agave. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a light and refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– 1/4 cup club soda
– 1 sprig of rosemary, plus extra for garnish
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: None required!
Roasted Fig and Honey Bourbon Cocktail
Roasted Fig and Honey Bourbon Cocktail: A Sweet and Sophisticated Libation
Combine the warm, caramel-like flavors of roasted figs with the smoothness of bourbon and the sweetness of honey for a truly unique cocktail experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups figs, stemmed and chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice
– Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place figs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. In a cocktail shaker, combine roasted figs, honey, bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (roasting figs)
Harvest Mule with Blackberry and Thyme
Elevate your mule game with the flavors of fall by incorporating blackberries and thyme into this refreshing cocktail. This unique twist on the classic Moscow Mule is perfect for autumnal gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz ginger-infused vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1/4 cup blackberry puree
– 1 tsp thyme syrup (see note)
– Ice
– Lime wheel and blackberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
3. Stir in the blackberry puree and thyme syrup.
4. Top with a splash of soda water (optional).
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and blackberries.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Note: To make thyme syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly. Strain and let cool before using.
Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Martini
Experience the ultimate winter treat by combining rich hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows in a decadent martini. This sweet and creamy drink is perfect for cold nights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 cup hot chocolate mix (prepared with 1 cup milk)
– 1/4 cup toasted marshmallows (see note)
– Whipped cream and additional toasted marshmallows for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine white chocolate liqueur, Baileys Irish Cream, and heavy cream.
2. Add prepared hot chocolate mix to the shaker and shake until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Top with toasted marshmallows and whipped cream.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To toast marshmallows, place them on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 30-60 seconds or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration with these 18 festive cocktail recipes! From Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mules and Pumpkin Pie White Russians, to Maple Old Fashioneds and Brown Butter Bourbon Cocktails, there’s something for every taste. Impress your guests with unique twists on classic drinks like the Apple Cider Bourbon Smash or the Pecan Pie Martini. Or, keep things cozy with warm cocktails like the Hot Buttered Rum with Cinnamon or the Gingerbread Hot Toddy. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to make your Thanksgiving gathering a memorable one!
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