Our Best Thanksgiving Drink Recipes

Thanksgiving celebrations are more than just turkey and stuffing. They’re about coming together with family and friends to share good food, gratitude, and delicious drinks.

From warm apple cider cocktails to festive cranberry sangrias, there are plenty of beverage options to complement your holiday feast.

These 21 best Thanksgiving drink recipes offer something for everyone, whether you prefer bourbon, rum, or non-alcoholic options that capture the flavors of fall.

You’ll find classic choices like mulled wine alongside creative concoctions such as pumpkin patch margaritas and chai espresso martinis.

Adding a signature cocktail to your Thanksgiving menu is a simple way to make the gathering even more memorable and give your guests something special to toast with as you celebrate together.

1. Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail

This festive drink adds a vibrant touch to your Thanksgiving table. It combines the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate with the effervescence of champagne.

To make this cocktail, pour about 2 tablespoons of pomegranate juice into a champagne flute. Top with cold champagne or sparkling wine and stir gently.

For an extra special touch, add a few pomegranate seeds to the glass as garnish. They’ll float beautifully and add a pop of color.

You can enhance the flavor by adding a splash of elderflower liqueur or citrus vodka if you prefer a stronger drink. This cocktail looks elegant and tastes refreshing.

2. Maple Perfect Manhattan

The Maple Perfect Manhattan is a wonderful choice for your Thanksgiving gathering. This twist on the classic cocktail uses both sweet and dry vermouth, making it a “perfect” Manhattan variation.

To make this drink, you’ll need rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, maple syrup, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters.

The maple syrup adds a seasonal sweetness that complements the rich whiskey. This creates a balanced flavor perfect for fall celebrations.

Garnish with a lemon twist or bourbon-soaked cherries. The result is a sophisticated cocktail that will impress your guests while capturing the warm flavors of the season.

3. Hot Mulled Cider

Hot mulled cider is a perfect warming drink for your Thanksgiving gathering. This cozy beverage combines apple cider with aromatic spices for a festive treat.

The classic recipe includes pure apple juice or fresh apple cider simmered with cinnamon sticks, orange peel, cloves, and star anise. Some versions add a butterscotch flavor that tastes similar to a caramel apple.

For adult gatherings, you can enhance your mulled cider with bourbon or rye whiskey. The warm spices complement the spirits perfectly.

Serve your hot mulled cider in heat-resistant mugs with cinnamon sticks as garnish. Your guests will appreciate this comforting drink while waiting for the turkey to finish roasting.

4. Bourbon Apple Cider

Bourbon apple cider is a perfect fall cocktail for your Thanksgiving celebration. The rich flavors of bourbon blend beautifully with the sweet tanginess of apple cider.

To make this drink, mix bourbon with apple cider, a splash of simple syrup, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir well and strain into glasses.

For an extra festive touch, add ginger beer to give it a pleasant spicy kick. Some recipes include apple butter to enhance the apple flavor.

This easy-to-make cocktail complements the traditional Thanksgiving meal wonderfully. Its warm, spiced notes match perfectly with roasted turkey and all the fixings.

5. Thanksgiving Punch

Thanksgiving punch brings festive flavor to your holiday gathering. It combines seasonal ingredients like apple cider, cranberry juice, and warming spices for a delicious drink everyone will enjoy.

You can easily make a big batch to serve many guests. Popular recipes include apple cider mixed with fruit juices, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a fall-inspired taste.

For adult versions, add Fireball whiskey, vodka, apricot brandy, or create a fall sangria. Non-drinkers can enjoy mocktail versions with sparkling water or ginger ale instead.

Serve your punch in a large bowl with fruit garnishes and cinnamon sticks for an impressive presentation that captures the spirit of the season.

6. Cranberry Martini

The Cranberry Martini is a perfect festive drink for your Thanksgiving table. This cocktail combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the smooth warmth of vodka.

To make this drink, fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add cranberry juice, vodka, orange liqueur, and a splash of vermouth. Shake until the outside of the shaker frosts over.

You can garnish your martini with fresh cranberries or an orange twist. For a more intense cranberry flavor, try using homemade cranberry syrup.

This vibrant red cocktail not only tastes delicious but also adds a splash of color to your holiday celebration.

7. Chamomile Lime Rickey

The Chamomile Lime Rickey is a refreshing twist on the traditional lime rickey. This drink combines freshly squeezed lime juice with chamomile simple syrup and seltzer water for a light, floral beverage.

To make this drink, you’ll need about ¼ cup of fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons of chamomile simple syrup, ice, and 8 ounces of seltzer. You can adjust the lime juice and syrup to match your taste preferences.

This drink works well as a non-alcoholic option for your Thanksgiving gathering. The chamomile adds a gentle, soothing quality that balances perfectly with the tart lime, creating a sophisticated drink everyone can enjoy.

8. Negroni Sbagliato

The Negroni Sbagliato is a refreshing twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. It replaces gin with prosecco for a lighter, bubbly drink that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.

To make this cocktail, you’ll need three simple ingredients: Campari, sweet vermouth, and prosecco. Fill a rocks glass with ice, then pour in 1 ounce each of Campari and sweet vermouth.

Stir these ingredients together gently before topping with 1 ounce of prosecco. Garnish with an orange slice for a pop of color and citrus aroma.

This bittersweet, lightly fizzy cocktail offers a sophisticated option that won’t overwhelm your Thanksgiving meal.

9. Spiced Holiday Sangria

Spiced Holiday Sangria brings festive flavors to your Thanksgiving table. This crowd-pleasing cocktail combines dry red wine with seasonal fruits and warming spices.

To make this sangria, you’ll need red wine, brandy, fresh fruits like apples and oranges, and spices such as cinnamon sticks. The combination creates a rich, aromatic drink perfect for holiday gatherings.

What makes this sangria special is how it can be prepared ahead of time. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Simply mix everything a day before your celebration.

Serve this sangria in a large pitcher with plenty of fruit for guests to enjoy. It’s both visually stunning and delicious.

10. Dark ‘n’ Stormy Mocktail

A Dark ‘n’ Stormy mocktail brings the same bold flavors as the classic cocktail without the alcohol. Perfect for your Thanksgiving table, this drink offers a spicy-sweet combination that guests of all ages can enjoy.

To make this mocktail, you’ll need ginger beer, fresh lime juice, and chilled black tea. The ginger beer provides the signature spicy kick, while the black tea gives the drink its “dark” appearance.

For a festive Thanksgiving twist, consider adding pomegranate juice instead of lime for a seasonal touch. It brings a beautiful ruby color and tart flavor that complements the ginger perfectly.

Serve in a tall collins glass with ice and garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing holiday drink.

11. Cranberry Vodka Spritz

The Cranberry Vodka Spritz is a perfect Thanksgiving drink that balances tart and sweet flavors. This festive cocktail uses fresh cranberry puree for authentic flavor.

To make this drink, mix vodka with cranberry juice and add a touch of honey for sweetness. A splash of soda water gives it a refreshing fizz that lightens the drink.

You can garnish with fresh cranberries or a lime wedge for extra flair. For a lower-sugar version, use unsweetened cranberry juice and adjust the honey to taste.

This bright red cocktail looks beautiful in clear glassware and makes a refreshing counterpoint to the heavy Thanksgiving meal.

12. Spiced Apple Martini

The Spiced Apple Martini is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving drink menu. This festive cocktail combines the crisp taste of apple with warm fall spices.

To make this cocktail, mix vodka with apple cider and a dash of cinnamon. Add a hint of pumpkin pie spice for that classic fall flavor profile.

Shake the mixture well with ice and strain into a martini glass. For an extra touch, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar.

Garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick. This warming drink balances sweetness with spice, making it ideal for sipping before or after your Thanksgiving feast.

13. Pumpkin Spice White Russian

The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a fall-inspired twist on the classic cocktail. It combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice creamer for a smooth, creamy drink.

To make this festive cocktail, fill a glass with ice and pour in 2 ounces of vodka and 1 ounce of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa). Then add 1 ounce of pumpkin spice creamer on top.

For an extra touch, sprinkle a dash of pumpkin pie spice on top. This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving with its warming pumpkin spices and rich coffee notes.

You can adjust the proportions based on how strong or sweet you prefer your cocktail.

14. Pomegranate Moscow Mule

The Pomegranate Moscow Mule is a festive twist on the classic cocktail that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. This drink combines the tartness of pomegranate with the spicy kick of ginger beer.

To make this cocktail, you’ll need vodka, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and ginger beer. Some recipes also include orange juice for extra citrus flavor.

Simply mix the vodka, pomegranate juice, and lime juice in a copper mug filled with ice. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.

Garnish with lime wedges and pomegranate seeds for a beautiful presentation. The bright red color makes this drink especially appropriate for holiday gatherings.

15. Rum Punch

Rum punch brings a festive spirit to your Thanksgiving table with its spiced and fruity flavors. This drink combines spiced rum with cranberry juice and apple cider for a seasonal taste that guests will love.

For extra flavor, add honey, cinnamon, and ginger beer to your rum punch. These ingredients create a warm, comforting drink perfect for autumn celebrations.

Garnish your punch bowl with sliced citrus fruits and cinnamon sticks for a beautiful presentation. You can prepare this drink in a large batch before guests arrive, making hosting easier.

Serve this punch in a decorative bowl with a ladle so guests can help themselves throughout your Thanksgiving gathering.

16. Bourbon Sparkler

The Bourbon Sparkler brings a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving table. This drink combines the rich warmth of bourbon with the festive pop of champagne.

To make this cocktail, mix 1 ounce of bourbon with a half ounce of spiced syrup. Pour into a champagne flute and top with chilled champagne or sparkling wine.

For an extra seasonal touch, add a splash of pomegranate juice for color and a hint of tartness. Garnish with a few pomegranate seeds or a thin apple slice.

This sparkler works well as both a welcome drink or paired with dessert. Your guests will appreciate this sophisticated yet easy-to-make cocktail option.

17. Aperol Bourbon Fizz

The Aperol Bourbon Fizz is a perfect Thanksgiving cocktail that balances sweet and bitter flavors. This drink combines the warmth of bourbon with the bright, citrusy notes of Aperol.

You only need a few ingredients to make this festive drink. The basic recipe includes bourbon, Aperol, lemon juice, and often a splash of soda for fizz.

This cocktail takes less than five minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday hosting. Your guests will appreciate this sophisticated yet simple option that pairs wonderfully with traditional Thanksgiving foods.

The beautiful orange-amber color also adds a seasonal touch to your holiday table.

18. Pomegranate Gin Fizz

The Pomegranate Gin Fizz is a festive cocktail that brings vibrant color to your Thanksgiving table. This drink combines the botanical notes of gin with the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate.

To make this cocktail, you’ll need 2 ounces of gin, 1 ounce of pomegranate juice or liqueur, fresh lime juice, and club soda or prosecco for fizz. Some recipes also include simple syrup for added sweetness.

Mix the gin, pomegranate, and any additional flavorings in a shaker with ice. Pour into a glass and top with your preferred fizzy element.

For a special touch, garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds or a sprig of rosemary for an aromatic, seasonal appeal.

19. Beet 75

The Beet 75 is a colorful twist on the classic French 75 cocktail. This vibrant drink combines the earthy sweetness of beet juice with the brightness of gin and sparkling wine.

To make this cocktail, mix 1 ounce of gin with ½ ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice and ½ ounce of beet juice. Add a dash of simple syrup to balance the flavors.

Shake all ingredients with ice, then strain into a champagne flute. Top with 2 ounces of chilled sparkling wine or champagne.

The deep ruby color makes this an eye-catching addition to your Thanksgiving table. Garnish with a lemon twist or small beet slice for extra flair.

20. Sparkling Applejack Cocktail

This festive cocktail blends the crisp taste of apple brandy with bubbles for a perfect Thanksgiving drink. The apple flavor makes it seasonally appropriate for your holiday gathering.

To make it, combine 1.5 oz applejack (apple brandy) with 0.5 oz lemon juice and 0.5 oz maple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled.

Strain into a champagne flute and top with 2 oz of sparkling wine or champagne. You can garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick for extra flair.

This drink balances sweetness with tartness and offers a refreshing alternative to heavier holiday cocktails. Your guests will appreciate this bubbly treat while waiting for dinner.

21. Spiced Hot Toddy

A Spiced Hot Toddy is a perfect warm drink for your Thanksgiving gathering. This classic cocktail combines whiskey, honey, lemon, and spices for a comforting sip.

To make this drink, start with hot water as your base. Add star anise pods and other warming spices for a festive flavor profile.

Mix in 2-3 teaspoons of honey (adjust to your sweetness preference) and squeeze half a lemon for brightness. Then add about 3 ounces of your preferred spirit.

While whiskey is traditional, you can substitute bourbon, brandy, or dark rum based on your taste preferences. The warm, spiced nature of this drink makes it ideal for cool Thanksgiving evenings.

Pairing Drinks with Thanksgiving Dishes

The right beverage can elevate your Thanksgiving meal from good to memorable. Finding complementary flavors helps enhance both the food and drink experience.

Balancing Flavors

Turkey pairs wonderfully with medium-bodied drinks that don’t overpower its subtle flavor. Try a Pinot Noir or an apple cider-based cocktail with your main course.

For rich, buttery mashed potatoes, choose a drink with acidity to cut through the fat. A sparkling wine or a vodka cranberry cocktail works well here.

Sweet potato casserole matches nicely with spiced drinks. Consider a bourbon cocktail with cinnamon and nutmeg notes or a mulled wine.

Cranberry sauce dishes call for drinks that complement tartness. A Cranberry Margarita or a ginger-spiced pear cocktail balances these flavors perfectly.

Savory stuffing pairs well with herbal drinks. Try a rosemary-infused gin and tonic or a sage-garnished bourbon cocktail.

Non-Alcoholic Options

Apple cider serves as a versatile non-alcoholic base. Warm it with cinnamon sticks and orange slices for a comforting drink that suits all ages.

Cranberry spritzers offer a tart, refreshing option. Mix cranberry juice with sparkling water and a squeeze of lime for a bright alternative.

Sparkling grape juice provides elegance without alcohol. Serve in champagne flutes for a festive touch that everyone can enjoy.

Herbal tea blends like chai or rooibos complement fall flavors. These warm options can be served before or after the meal.

Pumpkin smoothies make a delicious dessert pairing. Blend pumpkin puree with vanilla yogurt, a dash of maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice for a satisfying finish.

Tips for Making Festive Drinks

Creating memorable Thanksgiving cocktails is all about using the right ingredients and presenting them beautifully. These tips will help you make drinks that are just as impressive as your turkey dinner.

Using Seasonal Ingredients

Fall offers a bounty of flavors perfect for Thanksgiving cocktails. Apples, pumpkins, cranberries, and pears can form the base of many festive drinks. Try using apple cider as a mixer—it pairs wonderfully with bourbon or rum.

Warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add that quintessential holiday flavor. You can make spiced simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water with whole spices, then simmering until dissolved.

Maple syrup makes an excellent natural sweetener for fall cocktails. It adds depth that regular sugar can’t match.

Herb suggestions:

Rosemary
Thyme
Sage

These herbs not only taste great but also serve as beautiful garnishes. Fresh ginger adds a spicy kick that complements many fall spirits.

Techniques for Perfect Presentation

Rimming glasses with seasonal ingredients elevates any cocktail. Try crushed graham crackers for a pumpkin cocktail or cinnamon sugar for an apple drink.

Garnish ideas: