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24 Thanksgiving Holiday Cocktails to Liven Up Your Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving is a time for family, togetherness and gratitude. It can also be a good reason to indulge a little with the food and drinks that you put on for loved ones and friends alike. Maybe you're a classic Turkey kinda family, or maybe you've pivoted to some lovely fish, or beef, or veggie wellington.

Whatever your fancy, cocktails can enhance and elevate the day (and dishes) by creating certain flavour combinations and emotions, bringing forth certain pairings with the food, and increasing the enjoyment of the dishes.

In this list of our favourite 24 Thanksgiving cocktails, we've tried to choose seasonal ingredients, such as cranberries, pumpkin, warming spirits and spices - ingredients that try and capture the essence of fall, and traditions combinations that mirror some of the food options often found.

There's a mix here of warm and cozy vibes, with some creative and fun drinks. Some late night sippers and some day-time bubbles. We've also tried to give you some suggested food pairing for each cocktail, or when in the day the cocktail could be suitable for to help you find the right balance and timing for the drinks.

Whatever your tipple on the day, enjoy our list of our favourite cocktails for the holiday, and Happy Thanksgiving all.
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25th Nov 2024
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24 cocktails

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Features 24 cocktails

1. Pear-Rosemary Twist

The delicate sweetness of pear and the herbal aroma of rosemary create a sophisticated and aromatic cocktail that feels like autumn in a glass. Its light, refreshing profile makes it a perfect pre-dinner drink to awaken the palate.

Food pairing: Roast turkey with pear and cranberry stuffing.

Ingredients

Method

First make the pear vodka by sealing pears and vodka in a jar and letting it stand at room temperature for two weeks
Next make the rosemary syrup
Heat up the sugar syrup and add the rosemary to infuse its flavours, before allowing to cool
To make the cocktail put ice in a pitcher and add vodka, rosemary syrup and pear nectar
Top up with sparkling water and stir
Garnish with a rosemary sprig and serve
Go to recipe

2. Maple Old Fashioned

Rich maple syrup and smooth bourbon bring a deep, earthy warmth that embodies the cozy, rustic feel of Thanksgiving. The addition of bitters adds complexity, making it an ideal choice for sipping as the evening settles in.

Food pairing: Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows.

Ingredients

Method

In a mixing glass, combine maple syrup and bitters
Add bourbon or rye and ice, then stir until well chilled
Strain into a lowball glass over a large ice cube
Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry for a touch of sweetness and color
Go to recipe

3. Pumpkin Latte

This creamy, spiced latte mirrors the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie, with cinnamon and nutmeg adding a cozy holiday touch. It’s perfect as a dessert cocktail or an indulgent afternoon treat during Thanksgiving celebrations.

Food pairing: Pumpkin pie or pecan pie.

Ingredients

Method

In a large pan, mix the milk, pumpkin purée, sugar and ground cinnamon
Heat gently, whisking constantly until the mixture just reaches boiling point
Transfer the mixture to three Irish coffee glasses
To garnish, top the glasses with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon sugar
Go to recipe

4. Tequila Cranberry Cocktail

The tart cranberry juice and zesty lime offer a vibrant, refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of a Thanksgiving feast. This cocktail’s bright and festive presentation adds visual appeal to your holiday table.

Food pairing: Cranberry-glazed turkey breast.

Ingredients

Method

Wet the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and dip it into margarita salt (or sugar if preferred)
Fill the glass with ice
Pour in the tequila and top off with sweetened cranberry juice
Add a squeeze of lime juice and stir well
Garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cranberries
Go to recipe

5. Spiced Port & Brandy Punch

A warm, aromatic punch combining ruby port, brandy, and cider creates a rich and inviting cocktail, enhanced by seasonal spices like cinnamon and cloves. This drink is perfect for serving a crowd while evoking the essence of the holidays.

Food pairing: Cheese and charcuterie platter with figs and nuts.

Ingredients

Method

In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the ruby port, brandy, apple cider, cranberry juice, and fresh orange juice
Stir in the honey or brown sugar to taste
Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange and lemon slices
Warm over low heat, allowing it to gently simmer for 20-30 minutes, being careful not to let it boil
Ladle into mugs, ensuring each serving includes a slice of citrus and a few cranberries
Garnish with an extra cinnamon stick if desired
Go to recipe

6. Poinsettia

The combination of cranberry juice and champagne delivers a light and effervescent drink that feels celebratory and festive. Its simplicity and vibrant red hue make it a stunning addition to any Thanksgiving toast.

Food pairing: Roasted butternut squash salad.

Ingredients

Method

Pour the triple sec and cranberry juice into a champagne flute and stir
Genttly top up with champagne
Add an orange slice garnish and serve
Go to recipe

7. Mistletoe Margarita

This festive margarita combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the bright, citrusy notes of lime and orange liqueurs. It’s a colorful and refreshing cocktail that balances the richness of Thanksgiving dishes.

Food pairing: Spicy turkey tacos with cranberry salsa.

Ingredients

Method

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice
Add tequila, orange liqueur, Grand Marnier, white cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup
Cap the shaker and shake vigorously for at least 15 seconds
Strain the liquid into a glass with fresh ice
Garnish the glass with 4 cranberries and a sprig of rosemary
Serve and enjoy!
Go to recipe

8. Pumpkin Spice Margarita

he pumpkin purée and cinnamon elevate this margarita, infusing it with the warm, spiced flavors of fall while maintaining its refreshing citrus base. It’s a unique and seasonal twist on a classic cocktail.

Food pairing: Roasted acorn squash with maple glaze.

Ingredients

Method

Combine fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, tequila, pumpkin purée and a splash of Cointreau with a scoop of ice in a cocktail shaker
Shake well and strain the concoction over ice and a splash of water into a whisky glass
Garnish with an orange twist and a pinch of cinnamon and serve
Go to recipe

9. Calabaza Nog

A rich, spiced pumpkin nog combines the indulgence of a classic eggnog with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and seasonal spices. It’s a decadent and warming treat for after dinner.

Food pairing: Bread pudding with caramel sauce.

Ingredients

Method

First you need to make the spiced pumpkin syrup
In a saucepan, add a cup of brown sugar, a cup of water, half a cup of pumpkin purée, and a teaspoon each of nutmeg, ginger, allspice and cinnamon
Over medium heat until slightly thickened
Remove from the heat and place a vanilla pod into the syrup and chill overnight
Strain through a cheesecloth and store in a covered container, in a fridge, for up to one week
Once the pumpkin syrup is ready, add all the ingredients except the bitters into a cocktail shaker with ice
Double shake before double straining into a chilled cocktail glass
Add the bitters and garnish with some freshly shaven nutmeg, then serve
Go to recipe

10. Cranberry Collins

This twist on the classic Collins uses cranberry juice to add a tart, fruity punch, making it festive and light. Its sparkling soda water base refreshes the palate, making it ideal to sip between courses.

Food pairing: Cranberry and goat cheese crostini.

Ingredients

Method

Add all ingredients except soda water to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a highball glass filled with ice cubes, and top up with the soda water
Garnish with a lime wheel and serve
Go to recipe

11. Pumpkin Sazerac

This cocktail combines the bold, bittersweet notes of a classic Sazerac with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin syrup. It’s a sophisticated and seasonal option for whiskey lovers at your gathering.

Food pairing: Duck breast with orange and spice glaze.

Ingredients

Method

Rinse a chilled glass with absinthe and discard the excess
In a mixing glass, combine cognac (or rye whiskey), pumpkin syrup, and bitters with ice
Stir until well-chilled
Strain into the prepared glass and garnish with a lemon twist
Go to recipe

12. Pumpkin Whiskey Smash

Whiskey and pumpkin come together in a comforting, spiced cocktail that’s festive and perfect for the season.

Food pairing: Pumpkin ravioli with sage brown butter.

Ingredients

Method

In a shaker, combine pumpkin syrup, whiskey, orange juice, and orange bitters
Add ice and shake well
Strain into a glass, and if desired, top with ginger beer
Serve immediately
Go to recipe

13. Warm Bourbon Cider

The spiced cider and bourbon provide a warm, comforting sip that feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket. With cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, it evokes the aromas and flavors of classic fall desserts.

Food pairing: Apple pie or spiced apple crumble.

Ingredients

Method

In a large pan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
When the liquid is hot but not boiling, remove from heat and add your bourbon whisky of choice
Stir to distribute the spices, pour into a heat resistant glass and serve
Go to recipe

14. Frangipane Old Fashioned

Amaretto and maple syrup add a nutty, sweet depth to the traditional Old Fashioned, making it reminiscent of classic holiday desserts. It’s a dessert-like cocktail with a warming kick of bourbon to round it out.

Food pairing: Pecan pie or almond tart.

Ingredients

Method

Fill a rocks glass with ice, then add the bourbon, amaretto, maple syrup, and bitters
Stir for 30-40 seconds and top with extra ice as desired
Garnish with a strip of orange zest and toasted marshmallow
Go to recipe

15. Paloma

The bright grapefruit and lime notes in a Paloma make it a refreshingly zesty choice that pairs beautifully with heavier Thanksgiving dishes. The addition of a pinch of salt and bubbly soda water creates a balanced, effervescent finish.

Food pairing: Citrus-glazed ham.

Ingredients

Method

Start by preparing a glass (ideally a highball glass) by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it into a small plate of salt to coat the edge
Fill the glass with ice cubes
Pour in the tequila, followed by the grapefruit juice and lime juice
Add a pinch of salt to the mixture
Gently top off the drink with soda water, preferably grapefruit soda water for an extra citrusy kick
Stir the drink gently to mix all the ingredients
Garnish with a slice of grapefruit or a lime wedge, and enjoy your refreshing Paloma!
Go to recipe

16. Pumpkin Caipirinha

This Brazilian-inspired cocktail takes the earthy richness of pumpkin purée and blends it with the bright, tangy flavors of lime and ginger. It’s a creative and unexpected autumn twist on a tropical classic.

Food pairing: Pumpkin soup or roasted root vegetables.

Ingredients

Method

Pop some pumpkin pieces in a blender to make a smooth pumpkin purée
Then, muddle together half a lime, agave nectar and fresh grated ginger in the bottom of a cocktail shaker
Add cachaça and pumpkin purée with a scoop of ice and thoroughly shake the mixture to combine
Strain over ice and garnish with nutmeg and a lime wheel, and serve
Go to recipe

17. Peach Ginger Smash

The combination of juicy peach nectar, zingy fresh ginger, and warming bourbon creates a cocktail that’s both vibrant and soothing. It bridges the gap between summer’s sweetness and autumn’s comforting warmth.

Food pairing: Glazed honey ham or roasted pork tenderloin.

Ingredients

Method

In a bottom of a mixing glass muddle the ginger with the mint sprigs
Add this mixture to a cocktail shaker with ice and add the rest of the ingredients
Shake then pour into a lowball glass
Garnish with a sprig of mint and serve
Go to recipe

18. Campfire Crackle

A rich blend of whiskey, crème de cassis, and warm spiced apple juice creates a cocktail that feels like a fireside gathering in a glass. The cinnamon and ginger flavors make it perfect for chilly holiday evenings.

Food pairing: Baked brie with cranberry chutney.

Ingredients

Method

In a heatproof jug, combine the whisky and crème de cassis
In a small pan, gently warm the apple and ginger juice with the cinnamon sticks for 15 minutes, taking care not to let it simmer
Pour the warm juice into the jug and stir to combine
Serve in heatproof mugs while still warm
Go to recipe

19. Rosemary Old Fashioned

This earthy, herbal twist on the classic Old Fashioned highlights the fragrant essence of rosemary, balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the robustness of bourbon. It’s a sophisticated cocktail that pairs well with Thanksgiving’s savory dishes.

Food pairing: Herb-roasted turkey or garlic mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

Method

Muddle fresh rosemary with sugar and a few dashes of bitters in a glass until the rosemary releases its oils
Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon
Stir well to combine and chill the drink
Fine strain into another glass with fresh ice to ensure no rosemary bits are left in the drink
Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a twist of lemon for an extra aromatic touch
Go to recipe

20. Coffee Cardamom & Orange

The rich, deep flavors of coffee liqueur are elevated by the bright zest of orange juice and the exotic warmth of cardamom. This unique combination makes for a vibrant and aromatic holiday cocktail.

Food pairing: Chocolate tart or orange-glazed duck.

Ingredients

Method

Crush the cardamom pods gently to release their aroma
Combine the coffee liqueur and orange juice in a shaker with ice, and add the cardamom pods
Shake well until chilled
Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with an orange twist
Go to recipe

21. Glühwein

This German mulled wine blends red wine with citrus and warming spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating a drink that fills the room with comforting holiday aromas. It’s the perfect choice for a festive gathering.

Food pairing: Gingerbread cookies or roasted chestnuts.

Ingredients

Method

Pour the red wine into a large pot and begin heating over low heat (don't boil)
Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, sugar, and star anise
Heat thoroughly, then add the oranges slices and the chopped whole lemon
Simmer the mixture about 45 minutes over low heat, again making sure not to boil
Strain into prewarmed glasses or mugs
Garnish with orange slices or a cinnamon stick and serve hot
Go to recipe

22. Mulled Wine

A holiday classic, this spiced red wine is sweetened with honey and infused with citrus, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a fragrant and warming drink. It’s ideal for savoring after a long Thanksgiving meal.

Food pairing: Mince pies or spiced fruitcake.

Ingredients

Method

Warm an Irish coffee glass, then pour in all ingredients and stir
Top up with boiling water, garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve
Go to recipe

23. Golden Tree

This luxurious cocktail combines dark rum, Cointreau, and vanilla liqueur with a touch of cinnamon, creating a velvety and indulgent drink. The egg white adds a frothy texture that feels celebratory.

Food pairing: Creme brûlée or spiced pumpkin cheesecake.

Ingredients

Method

Muddle the cinnamon in the bottom of a cocktail shaker before adding the rest of the ingredients
Shake hard until the outside of the cocktail shaker becomes frosted
Double strain into a chilled cocktail glass
Garnish with an orange twist and serve
Go to recipe

24. Hazelnut Hot Toddy

The nutty sweetness of hazelnut liqueur, combined with the rich depth of bourbon and warming spices, makes this drink a comforting winter warmer. It’s perfect for sipping after dinner as a dessert alternative.

Food pairing: Hazelnut praline or cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

Method

In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the Frangelico, bourbon, water, brown sugar, and vanilla
Add the cinnamon sticks and cloves
Heat on medium for about 5 minutes, until hot and the brown sugar has dissolved, but do not bring to a boil
Pour into cups, making 4 small servings or 2 large
Garnish with additional cinnamon sticks and fresh herbs if desired
Go to recipe

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