Thanksgiving is the perfect time to sip and celebrate, and what better way to toast than with some delicious drinks? Whether you’re a wine lover, a cocktail fan, or just looking to mix things up, we’ve got a range of alcohol-infused recipes to help you get in the festive spirit. And don’t sweat it if you’re missing an ingredient; you can easily swap in what you’ve got at home. Got cranberry juice instead of pomegranate? No problem! Let’s raise a glass and make this Thanksgiving one to remember.
Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Imagine a warm, cozy drink that combines the rich flavors of bourbon and maple syrup, topped off with a hint of orange. This drink not only warms you up but also adds a festive touch to your holiday table.
In the image, you can see a beautifully crafted glass filled with this amber elixir, garnished with a twist of orange peel. The backdrop of autumn leaves and pumpkins sets the perfect scene for sipping this seasonal favorite. It’s a drink that invites you to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family.
Let’s get into the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this tasty cocktail. If you’re missing something, don’t worry! You can easily substitute ingredients. For example, if you don’t have bourbon, try using rye whiskey instead. No maple syrup? Honey or agave syrup will do the trick!
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
- Add ice cubes and stir until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel, expressing the oils over the drink.
- Enjoy your Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned while surrounded by loved ones!
Pecan Pie Martini
The Pecan Pie Martini is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Imagine sipping on a cocktail that tastes just like your favorite pecan pie. This drink is creamy, nutty, and oh-so-sweet, making it a fantastic way to toast to the holiday season.
In the image, you can see a beautifully crafted martini, showcasing its rich, caramel color. The drink is elegantly served in a classic martini glass, topped with a single pecan for that extra touch. Behind it, a slice of pecan pie sits invitingly, hinting at the flavors you can expect in this cocktail.
To whip up this tasty treat, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. If you don’t have something on hand, don’t fret! You can easily swap out ingredients. For example, if you’re out of vanilla vodka, regular vodka will work just fine. Or, if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just skip the vodka and add extra cream and syrup.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz pecan liqueur (or hazelnut liqueur)
- 1 oz heavy cream
- 1 oz maple syrup
- Pecan for garnish
Instructions
- Shake It Up: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vanilla vodka, pecan liqueur, heavy cream, and maple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish: Top with a pecan for that perfect finishing touch.
- Serve: Enjoy your Pecan Pie Martini while reminiscing about all the good times and great food!
Cranberry Orange Mimosa
The Cranberry Orange Mimosa is a festive drink that adds a splash of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving table. With its bright orange and deep red hues, it’s not just a drink; it’s a centerpiece! Picture this: a tall glass filled with bubbly champagne, floating cranberries, and a slice of orange perched on the rim. It’s a drink that says, ‘Cheers to good times!’
This delightful cocktail is perfect for toasting with family and friends. The tartness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the orange juice, creating a refreshing balance. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday.
If you’re out of champagne, don’t worry! You can substitute it with sparkling cider or even soda water for a non-alcoholic version. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of cranberry juice for extra flavor. The beauty of this drink is that you can customize it to your liking!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 cups champagne or sparkling wine
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a pitcher, combine the cranberry juice and orange juice.
- Slowly pour in the champagne or sparkling wine, stirring gently to mix.
- Pour the mixture into glasses, filling them about two-thirds full.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a slice of orange on the rim.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the festive cheer!
Apple Cider Margarita
Apple cider margaritas are a fun twist on the classic drink, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Imagine sipping on a refreshing cocktail that combines the warm flavors of fall with the zesty kick of tequila. This drink is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great centerpiece for your holiday table.
The image showcases a beautifully crafted apple cider margarita, garnished with a slice of fresh apple and a sprinkle of salt on the rim. The vibrant colors of the drink, paired with the autumn leaves and rustic wooden backdrop, create a cozy vibe that invites you to relax and enjoy.
To make this drink, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. If you’re missing something, don’t worry! You can easily swap out ingredients. For instance, if you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice. No tequila? Try using vodka or rum instead for a different flavor. The key is to have fun and make it your own!
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz apple cider
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz orange liqueur (like Triple Sec)
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Apple slices for garnish
Instructions
- Rim the Glass: Start by rimming your glass with lime juice and then dip it into salt to create a salty edge.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a shaker, combine tequila, apple cider, lime juice, and orange liqueur. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Pour and Garnish: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice. Garnish with apple slices on top.
- Enjoy: Sip and enjoy the flavors of fall in every refreshing gulp!
Mulled Wine with Citrus and Spices
Mulled wine is a classic holiday drink that warms you up from the inside out. Picture a cozy evening with friends, laughter filling the air, and the sweet aroma of spices wafting through the room. This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving, adding a festive touch to your gathering.
The image shows a beautiful glass of mulled wine, garnished with slices of orange and cinnamon sticks. The vibrant colors of the wine and citrus create a warm, inviting vibe. It’s a drink that not only tastes good but looks great too!
Making mulled wine is simple and fun. You can customize it to suit your taste. If you’re not a fan of red wine, white wine or even apple cider can work as alternatives. Want to switch up the spices? Go ahead and add some ginger or cardamom for a twist!
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine (750ml)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 3-4 star anise
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Add the wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, honey, cloves, and water.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Do not boil, as this can cook off the alcohol.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Strain the mixture to remove the spices and orange slices.
- Serve warm in mugs, garnished with extra orange slices or cinnamon sticks if desired.
Gingerbread White Russian
The Gingerbread White Russian is a festive twist on the classic cocktail. Imagine a creamy, dreamy drink that tastes like the holidays in a glass. This drink combines the rich flavors of coffee liqueur, vodka, and cream with the warm spices of gingerbread. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet night in.
In the image, you can see a beautifully layered drink topped with a frothy layer of cream. The glass is rimmed with a sprinkle of sugar, adding a sweet touch. Gingerbread cookies shaped like snowflakes sit nearby, making the scene feel even more festive. The background features a decorated Christmas tree and soft candlelight, creating a warm holiday vibe.
This drink is not just delicious; it’s also super easy to make. You can whip it up in no time, impressing your guests without breaking a sweat. If you don’t have all the ingredients, don’t worry! You can swap out the vodka for rum or even use a non-alcoholic coffee creamer for a mocktail version. Let’s get to the recipe!
Autumn Sangria with Fresh Fruit
Autumn is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing pitcher of autumn sangria? This drink is not just pretty; it’s packed with seasonal flavors that make your taste buds dance. Imagine a beautiful jug filled with vibrant fruits like oranges, lemons, and berries, all soaking in a delicious blend of red wine and spices. It’s like a cozy hug in a glass!
Making sangria is super easy and fun. You can customize it with whatever fruits you have on hand. If you don’t have oranges, feel free to toss in some apples or pears instead. And if red wine isn’t your jam, white wine or even sparkling cider can work wonders too!
This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or just a chill evening with friends. Serve it over ice, and watch everyone smile as they sip on this delightful concoction. Plus, it looks gorgeous on the table, adding a splash of color to your fall festivities.
Ingredients
- 1 bottle of red wine (750ml) – Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works great!
- 1/4 cup brandy (or skip it if you want a lighter drink)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (like Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 apple, diced (any kind you like)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups soda water or lemon-lime soda (for fizz)
Instructions
- Combine the Wine: In a large pitcher, mix the red wine, brandy, and orange liqueur.
- Add the Fruits: Toss in the sliced orange, lemon, mixed berries, and diced apple. Give it a gentle stir.
- Sweeten It Up: Add sugar to the mix and stir until it dissolves. Taste it and adjust the sweetness if needed.
- Chill: Let the sangria sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Just before serving, add the soda water for some fizz. Pour over ice and enjoy!
Spiced Pumpkin Ale
Spiced pumpkin ale is the perfect drink to celebrate Thanksgiving. Imagine a cozy gathering with friends and family, and this warm, spiced beverage in hand. The rich, amber color of the ale matches the golden hues of fall, while the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air. It’s like a hug in a mug!
This drink combines the flavors of pumpkin, spices, and a hint of sweetness, making it a delightful choice for the holiday season. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite Thanksgiving dishes. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip up a batch for your guests without breaking a sweat.
Now, let’s get to the fun part: the recipe! Here’s how you can create your own spiced pumpkin ale at home. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the ingredients; I’ve included some substitutions to keep things simple.
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup brown sugar (or honey for a healthier twist)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 bottle of beer (a light lager works well, but you can use a non-alcoholic beer if you prefer)
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is mixed.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. You want to let those spices mingle and create a lovely aroma!
- Once warm, slowly add the beer to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
- Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
- Serve warm in mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick for that extra touch of fall.
And there you have it! A delicious spiced pumpkin ale that will surely impress your guests. If you’re out of apple cider, feel free to use any fruit juice you have on hand. Cheers to a festive Thanksgiving!
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.