Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with family and friends, enjoy a delicious feast, and raise a glass to all the things we’re thankful for. While turkey and stuffing steal the show, why not spice up your celebration with some classic cocktails? Here are eight tried-and-true cocktails that will add a festive flair to your Thanksgiving dinner. Choose your favorite and give it a try!
1. Classic Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a timeless cocktail that balances the warmth of whiskey with the tartness of lemon juice. Just mix 2 ounces of whiskey, 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup. Shake it up, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with a cherry or a slice of lemon.
2. Cranberry Moscow Mule
Put a Thanksgiving twist on the beloved Moscow Mule by adding cranberry juice! Combine 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of cranberry juice, and 1/2 ounce of lime juice in a copper mug filled with ice. Top it off with ginger beer and garnish with fresh cranberries and a lime wedge. It’s a refreshing drink to complement your holiday feast!
3. Spiced Apple Cider Mimosa
Start your Thanksgiving brunch with a deliciously cozy Spiced Apple Cider Mimosa. Mix equal parts apple cider and sparkling wine, then add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg. Serve in a champagne flute and garnish with a thin apple slice. This bubbly drink will get everyone in the holiday spirit!
4. Pumpkin Spice Martini
For those who love everything pumpkin, this cocktail is a must-try! Combine 1 1/2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of pumpkin puree, 1 ounce of heavy cream, and a dash of pumpkin spice. Shake with ice, strain into a martini glass, and sprinkle a little extra pumpkin spice on top. It’s like dessert in a glass!
5. Old Fashioned
You can never go wrong with an Old Fashioned! Muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a rocks glass. Add a large ice cube, pour in 2 ounces of bourbon, and stir. Garnish with an orange twist for a sophisticated touch. It’s a classic that will impress your guests!
6. Pear and Ginger Fizz
This cocktail is both elegant and easy to make. Mix 2 ounces of pear vodka with 1 ounce of ginger liqueur and 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice. Shake with ice, strain into a glass, and top it off with club soda. Garnish with a slice of pear for a refreshing twist that celebrates the fall season!
7. Pomegranate Martini
Brighten up your Thanksgiving table with a vibrant Pomegranate Martini. Combine 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of pomegranate juice, and 1/2 ounce of lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with pomegranate seeds. It’s a fun and fruity option that looks beautiful!
8. Hot Toddy
As the weather cools down, warm up with a comforting Hot Toddy. Steep 1 bag of herbal tea (like chamomile or chai) in hot water. Add 1 ounce of whiskey, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir and garnish with a cinnamon stick and a lemon slice. This cozy drink is perfect for a chilly Thanksgiving evening!
There you have it—eight delightful cocktails to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you’re hosting or attending a gathering, these drinks are sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories. Which one will you choose to mix up this year?
