As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisp, it’s time to start thinking about your holiday menu. But don’t forget about the most important part – the drinks! This Thanksgiving, why not try something new and delicious? From spiced apple cider to pumpkin-flavored everything, we’ve got you covered with our top 20 festive recipes. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just want to add some cheer to your holiday meal, these tasty treats are sure to please even the pickiest of palates.
Spiced Apple Cider with Bourbon
Warm up with this autumnal blend of sweet and spicy flavors, elevated by a splash of bourbon. Perfect for cozying up on a chilly fall evening or serving at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 2 inches)
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking until the sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.
4. Stir in bourbon whiskey.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick or a few cloves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Combine the warm spices of autumn with the creamy richness of a White Russian cocktail. This unique twist on the classic drink adds pumpkin puree and spice to create a perfect fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, coffee liqueur, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (prepared in under 5 minutes)
Cranberry Orange Sangria
Cranberry Orange Sangria: A refreshing twist on traditional sangria, this recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange liqueur and a hint of citrusy zest. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio work well)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange liqueur (Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Sliced oranges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the wine and cranberries. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Stir in the orange liqueur, orange juice, and sugar until dissolved.
3. Add the orange zest and stir gently.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
5. Serve the sangria over ice in glasses and garnish with sliced oranges.
Cooking Time: None
Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy
Soften your winter woes with this indulgent, maple-infused hot toddy featuring the smoothness of bourbon. Perfect for chilly nights or as a pick-me-up during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
– Honey or sugar (optional, to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine bourbon and maple syrup.
2. Add boiling water and stir until the syrup dissolves.
3. Stir in grated ginger and lemon juice.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or sugar if desired.
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, if using.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prepare to enjoy!)
Pecan Pie Martini
Escape to a southern haven with this Pecan Pie Martini, combining the flavors of rich pecans, maple syrup, and bourbon. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Bourbon
– 1/2 oz Maple Syrup
– 1/2 oz Heavy Cream
– 1/4 cup Pecan Praline Syrup (or to taste)
– 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
– Ice
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, maple syrup, heavy cream, and pecan praline syrup.
2. Add vanilla extract and fill with ice.
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 chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Enjoy your Pecan Pie Martini!
Caramel Apple Moscow Mule
Elevate your Moscow Mule game with the sweet and tangy combination of caramel apples! This fall-inspired twist on the classic cocktail is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1/2 cup caramel syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– Slice of apple (Granny Smith or Fuji work well), for garnish
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add vodka and ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently.
4. Drizzle caramel syrup into the glass, creating a layered effect (about 1/4 cup).
5. Garnish with an apple slice and lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble the ingredients and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Caramel Apple Moscow Mule!
Thanksgiving Punch with Prosecco
As the holiday season approaches, this refreshing punch is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering. With the perfect blend of autumn flavors and bubbly Prosecco, it’s an ideal drink to serve throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle Prosecco (750ml)
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
– Fresh rosemary leaves or sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Chill the Prosecco in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
2. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, and pineapple juice.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Just before serving, pour the chilled Prosecco into the punch mixture and stir gently.
5. Garnish with sliced citrus fruits and fresh rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Serve immediately and enjoy.
Hot Buttered Rum
Cozy up with this simple yet satisfying winter warmer, perfect for snuggling by the fireplace or sharing with friends on a chilly night. This timeless recipe combines rich buttery goodness with the warmth of rum to create a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shot (1 1/2 oz) dark rum
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups hot water
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add brown sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Stir in rum, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour in hot water and stir until the mixture is smooth.
5. Heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Gingerbread Eggnog
Elevate your holiday season with this creamy and spicy drink that combines the comforting flavors of gingerbread and eggnog. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed gingerbread cookies (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the eggnog over low heat.
2. Add the heavy cream, honey, grated ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until the honey dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Strain the eggnog into mugs or a large serving pitcher.
5. If desired, garnish with crushed gingerbread cookies and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spiced Pear Bellini
Transform the classic Bellini into a warm and inviting winter cocktail by infusing it with the sweet flavors of pear and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 bottle of Prosecco or sparkling wine
– Fresh pear slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped pears, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and cardamom.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the pears are tender (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Strain the pear mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the pear-infused liquid in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. To serve, pour 2 oz of the chilled pear liquid into a glass filled with ice. Top with Prosecco and garnish with fresh pear slices.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Pie Moonshine Cocktail
Experience the warmth of a classic apple pie in a glass with this sweet and tangy cocktail. The combination of bourbon, apple cider, and cinnamon creates a deliciously autumnal drink perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– Ice
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, apple cider, caramel syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Add a pinch of ground cinnamon.
4. Shake well for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Cranberry Gin Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Cranberry Gin Fizz recipe, perfect for the holiday season. With a hint of tartness from cranberries and a crisp gin flavor, this drink is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) gin
– 3/4 oz (22.5 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 1/2 cup (60 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cranberries and simple syrup until well combined.
2. Add gin, lime juice, and ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Pumpkin Beer Float
Escape the ordinary with a unique twist on the classic float – a Pumpkin Beer Float! This autumnal treat combines the warmth of pumpkin beer with the creaminess of vanilla ice cream and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of your favorite pumpkin beer
– 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pour the pumpkin beer into a tall glass or mug.
2. Scoop the vanilla ice cream on top of the beer, creating a layer about 1-2 inches thick.
3. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and nutmeg evenly over the ice cream.
4. If desired, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of additional spices.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Sweet Potato Pie Smoothie
Transform your favorite sweet potato pie into a refreshing smoothie that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe combines the warm spices and natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with creamy yogurt and milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cooked sweet potato
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the cooked sweet potato, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just a few minutes.
Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned
Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned: A Twist on a Classic Cocktail
Elevate your old fashioned game with the warm and comforting flavors of maple syrup and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz cinnamon-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 3 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and cinnamon-infused simple syrup.
2. Fill the glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Add Angostura bitters and stir gently to combine.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, then use as garnish.
Note: To make cinnamon-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup granulated sugar and 2-3 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Cooking time: None
Spiced Chai Hot Chocolate
Cozy up with a rich and aromatic Spiced Chai Hot Chocolate that combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the warm, spicy flavors of chai tea. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or non-fat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the warmed milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until hot chocolate reaches desired temperature.
5. Stir in heavy cream, if using.
6. Pour into mugs and garnish with whipped cream and cinnamon sticks, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Harvest Moon Margarita
Celebrate the changing seasons with this warm-weather twist on a classic margarita. The combination of earthy agave, citrusy lime, and sweet apple creates a refreshing drink perfect for a Harvest Moon gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces tequila
– 1 ounce apple cider syrup (or apple juice)
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 ounce agave nectar
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, apple cider syrup (or apple juice), lime juice, and agave nectar.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Caramelized Fig Bourbon Smash
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic smash cocktail, featuring caramelized figs and bourbon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or dried figs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– 2 sprigs of fresh mint
– Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss figs with brown sugar and spread on a baking sheet. Caramelize for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Muddle the caramelized figs with bourbon whiskey in a large pitcher.
4. Add lime wedges and mint sprigs to the pitcher.
5. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
6. Serve over ice in a Collins glass.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Toasted Marshmallow Martini
A sweet and indulgent twist on the classic martini, this cocktail combines toasted marshmallows with rich chocolate liqueur and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz marshmallow creme
– 1/4 oz vanilla extract
– Toasted marshmallows for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream.
2. Add marshmallow creme and vanilla extract.
3. Shake until well combined and chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with toasted marshmallows.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve!)
Pomegranate Rosemary Spritzer
Elevate your gathering with this refreshing Pomegranate Rosemary Spritzer, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique apéritif. The combination of tart pomegranate and earthy rosemary creates a delightful harmony that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Prosecco or sparkling wine
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Ice cubes
– Fresh pomegranate seeds and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine Prosecco, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Stir in chopped rosemary leaves.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Pomegranate Rosemary Spritzer over the ice.
4. Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and rosemary sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready to serve immediately.
Summary
Get ready to shake (or stir) things up this Thanksgiving with these delicious and festive drink recipes. From classic warm drinks like Spiced Apple Cider with Bourbon and Hot Buttered Rum, to unique twists like Pumpkin Spice White Russian and Cranberry Orange Sangria, there’s something for everyone on this list. Plus, don’t miss the sweet treats in a glass, like Pecan Pie Martini and Toasted Marshmallow Martini. These recipes are sure to make your Thanksgiving gathering merry and bright!