21 Thanksgiving Cocktails | Festive Fall Drinks to Impress Your Guests
Cozy, festive, and full of flavor — these easy Thanksgiving cocktail recipes will make your holiday dinner unforgettable!
When you think of Thanksgiving, you probably picture roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie — but let’s be honest, no holiday gathering feels complete without a signature Thanksgiving cocktail in hand. 🍸
These 21 easy Thanksgiving cocktails are a great choice for any seasonal party, from parties with friends to big family dinners. From apple cider bourbon smash and pumpkin spice martinis to cranberry mules and maple old fashioneds, every drink here is bursting with warm fall flavors like cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and spiced rum.
The best part? You don’t need to be a bartender to make them. These festive fall cocktail recipes are quick, beginner-friendly, and perfect for entertaining. And yes, I’ve got non-alcoholic mocktails too, because everyone deserves a sip of Thanksgiving cheer!
These holiday cocktail ideas aren’t just drinks — they’re conversation starters, table highlights, and a guaranteed way to make your guests say, “Wow, what’s in this?!” So grab your cocktail shaker, stock up on apple cider, cranberry juice, bourbon, and vodka, and let’s get mixing. Because this year, we’re giving thanks… one delicious drink at a time. 🧡
Related: Thanksgiving Snacks Recipes
21 Best Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Creamy, rich, and full of fall flavor, this Pumpkin Spice White Russian is your dessert in a glass. Made with vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin puree, and a dash of cinnamon, it’s the ultimate cozy cocktail for your Thanksgiving dinner party. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for that perfect festive vibe. Great for holiday gatherings and Friendsgiving nights.
Apple Cider Bourbon Smash
This Apple Cider Bourbon Smash is a fall favorite — sweet, crisp, and spiked with smooth bourbon. Mix fresh apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup, and muddled apples for a truly refreshing Thanksgiving cocktail. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for bourbon lovers. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or rosemary sprig for that rustic, autumn aesthetic.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
Meet the holiday twist on a classic! The Cranberry Moscow Mule combines tangy cranberry juice, spicy ginger beer, and zesty lime — a total crowd-pleaser. Serve it in frosty copper mugs with sugared cranberries for a festive presentation. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for your Thanksgiving cocktail bar setup.
Maple Old Fashioned
Warm, bold, and comforting — the Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned screams Thanksgiving spirit. Crafted with maple syrup instead of sugar, it delivers a deep, caramel sweetness balanced by aromatic bitters and smooth bourbon. Perfect for sipping by the fireplace or pairing with pecan pie.
Pear Gin Fizz Cocktail
Light, botanical, and elegant, the Pear & Thyme Gin Fizz is ideal for a sophisticated Thanksgiving brunch or dinner toast. The combination of pear nectar, thyme syrup, and gin creates a refreshing fall cocktail that feels both classy and cozy. Add club soda and a thyme sprig for a sparkling finish.
Pumpkin Pie Martini
This Pumpkin Pie Martini tastes just like dessert — but with a boozy twist! Made with pumpkin puree, vanilla vodka, Irish cream, and a touch of nutmeg, it’s creamy, sweet, and irresistibly festive. Rim the glass with graham cracker crumbs for that pie crust vibe.
Cinnamon Apple Sangria
A Cinnamon Apple Sangria is the perfect make-ahead cocktail for Thanksgiving gatherings. Combine white wine, apple cider, sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, and brandy for a crisp, fruity fall punch. It’s light yet full of cozy autumn flavor — and looks gorgeous in a pitcher!
Champagne Spritzer
Bubbly, beautiful, and full of holiday cheer — the Pomegranate Champagne Spritz is a showstopper. Mix pomegranate juice, orange liqueur, and champagne for a stunning sparkling cocktail that feels festive and elegant. Garnish with pomegranate arils and rosemary for a red-and-green Christmas touch.
Spiced Rum Hot Toddy
Warm up chilly Thanksgiving nights with this Spiced Rum Hot Toddy. It’s a soothing blend of rum, honey, lemon, and cinnamon — ideal for cozy evenings by the fire. Perfect for guests who love warm, comforting cocktails instead of chilled drinks.
Caramel Apple Margarita
Sweet, tangy, and playful — the Caramel Apple Margarita is fall’s answer to a classic summer drink. Blend tequila, apple cider, and caramel syrup, then rim the glass with cinnamon sugar. It’s fun, festive, and a guaranteed conversation starter!
Chai Whiskey Sour
Give your whiskey sour a cozy upgrade with this Chai Whiskey Sour. Infused with chai tea syrup, bourbon, lemon juice, and a hint of honey — this cocktail balances warm spice with tart citrus perfectly. It’s sophisticated yet simple, ideal for whiskey lovers.
Cranberry Mulled Wine
This Mulled Cranberry Wine fills your home with the best holiday aromas — cinnamon, clove, orange, and red wine simmered to perfection. Add fresh cranberries for tartness and color. It’s the coziest cocktail to serve alongside Thanksgiving dessert.
Maple Espresso Martini
For coffee lovers, this Maple Espresso Martini is a dream come true. Made with vodka, espresso, maple syrup, and coffee liqueur, it’s rich, energizing, and perfectly balanced. Serve after dinner for a caffeinated Thanksgiving pick-me-up.
Prickly Pear Mule
Refreshing, spicy, and perfectly fall-inspired, the Ginger Pear Mule combines pear juice, vodka, lime, and ginger beer. It’s crisp and aromatic, offering a light alternative to heavy holiday drinks. Great for both Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas parties.
Grapefruit Rosemary Paloma
The Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma is bright, citrusy, and slightly herbal—a refreshing break from the rich holiday fare. Made with tequila, grapefruit juice, rosemary syrup, and soda, it's elegant yet easy to mix up.
Cranberry Mimosa Recipe (Poinsettia Cocktail)
Light, bubbly, and festive — the Cranberry Mimosa is a must for Thanksgiving brunch. Just combine champagne (or prosecco) with cranberry juice and orange liqueur for a refreshing, photogenic cocktail. Garnish with sugared cranberries for sparkle!
Pumpkin Spice Irish Coffee
Take your classic Irish coffee to fall perfection with Pumpkin Cream Irish Coffee. Combine hot coffee, Irish whiskey, pumpkin spice cream, and whipped topping. It’s rich, warm, and comforting — ideal for dessert or after-dinner sipping.
Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
Dessert meets cocktail in this indulgent Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail. With bourbon, pecan liqueur, cream, and vanilla syrup, this drink captures the essence of pecan pie in liquid form. It’s smooth, nutty, and unforgettable.
Lyre's Spiced Apple Mojito
The Honeycrisp Apple Mojito is a crisp, refreshing twist on the Cuban classic. Fresh mint, apple slices, rum, lime, and soda water combine for a light yet festive fall drink. Great for early afternoon sipping or Thanksgiving lunch gatherings.
Cranberry Prosecco Punch
Hosting a big crowd? Try the Cranberry Prosecco Punch — a fizzy, fruity blend of cranberry juice, orange slices, prosecco, and vodka. Perfect for serving in a punch bowl! It’s beautiful, refreshing, and budget-friendly for large gatherings.
Sparkling Apple Cider Mocktail
For a family-friendly option, this Sparkling Apple Cider Mocktail is festive and refreshing. Mix apple cider, sparkling water, and a splash of cranberry juice, then garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. Kids and adults will both love it!
Related: Classic Cuban Picadillo Recipe
🍁 How to Choose the Perfect Thanksgiving Cocktail
Choosing the perfect Thanksgiving cocktail isn’t just about mixing drinks—it’s about creating moments. Here’s how to pick a signature cocktail that’ll make your holiday dinner unforgettable!
🍗 Match It With Your Menu
Planning to serve roast turkey, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce? Pair it with a light, crisp drink like a Cranberry Gin Fizz or Apple Cider Spritz. For heavier, buttery dishes or Thanksgiving desserts, a Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned or Pumpkin Spice White Russian is perfection.
💡 Tip: Light cocktails keep the palate fresh during dinner, while rich, spiced drinks pair beautifully with dessert.
🍂 Choose Your Thanksgiving Vibe
Hosting a cozy family dinner? Go with something warm and comforting like a Spiced Rum Hot Toddy or Mulled Apple Cider Cocktail. For a fun Friendsgiving gathering, try a colorful Cranberry Margarita or Pomegranate Champagne Spritz for instant festive cheer.
💬 Tip: Match your drink energy with your crowd—warm & slow for traditional, sparkling & playful for modern celebrations.
🎃 Think Seasonal Flavors
Thanksgiving is all about autumn flavors—apple cider, cinnamon, pumpkin, cranberry, and maple. These ingredients not only taste like fall but smell like it too! Add garnishes like rosemary sprigs, sugared cranberries, or cinnamon sticks.
For more professional pairing tips, check out this expert guide on Liquor.com, one of the most trusted resources for cocktail enthusiasts and home bartenders. You’ll find inspiration for seasonal mixology, Thanksgiving drink trends, and holiday bar setups.
Suggested: Shrimp and Grits Recipes
🧠 Tips & Tricks for Hosting a Cocktail Bar at Home
Planning to host a Thanksgiving cocktail party at home? 🍸 Creating a cozy and stylish home bar setup can turn your living room into the hottest fall hangout spot!

🍂 Create a Cozy DIY Cocktail Station
Set up a mini Thanksgiving cocktail bar with mixers, fresh herbs, and garnish trays. Use festive elements like mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and cranberries to match the fall theme. Guests love when they can mix and match their own drinks—it’s fun and interactive!

🍸 Use Signature Fall Garnishes
Level up your cocktails with easy but impressive garnishes — think rosemary sprigs, sugared cranberries, orange zest, and cinnamon sticks.

🍷 Make a Big-Batch Thanksgiving Punch
Hosting a big family dinner? Save time with a big-batch cocktail or Thanksgiving punch recipe that everyone can pour from. It keeps things easy for you and festive for your guests — a win-win!

🥂 Invest in Quality Bar Tools & Glassware
Using the right cocktail shaker set, muddler, strainer, and glassware instantly elevates your hosting game. Consider investing in a bar tool kit or premium home bar setup to make mixing effortless and elegant. It’s also a smart investment for year-round entertaining.

🎨 Add Fall-Themed Decor & Lighting
Set the mood with warm fairy lights, autumn leaves, and rustic table runners. Use earthy tones like amber, burnt orange, and gold to make your cocktail bar glow beautifully at night. Great ambiance = great memories!

🧊 Keep Drinks Cold with Frozen Fruit
Skip boring ice cubes — freeze cranberries, grapes, or orange slices instead! They look stunning and won’t water down your Thanksgiving cocktails. Small touches like these make a big impression on guests.
Suggested: Lobster Roll Recipe
🧡 Serving Suggestions — How to Serve Thanksgiving Cocktails Like a Boss
Practical, pretty, and easy-to-execute ideas to pair drinks with food, set up a crowd-friendly bar, and make sure your Thanksgiving cocktails look incredible (and spill-free). So, try these easy Thanksgiving Drinks.
Pairing Tips: What Goes With Turkey & Sides
- Light & bright: Cranberry spritzers, gin fizzes, and apple–thyme cocktails cut through rich gravy — great with turkey and green beans.
- Spiced & warming: Pumpkin Old Fashioned, mulled cranberry wine, or spiced rum hot toddies match roasted root vegetables and stuffing.
- Sweet finishes: Maple espresso martini or caramel-apple margaritas pair beautifully with dessert—especially pecan pie.
- Non-alcoholic pairings: Sparkling apple cider or a cranberry-ginger fizz works for drivers and kids without compromising flavor.
Presentation Tips — Make Drinks Pop on the Table
- Garnish boldly: sugared cranberries, cinnamon sticks, dehydrated orange wheels, or rosemary sprigs add color and aroma.
- Glassware matters: use coupe glasses for champagne cocktails, copper mugs for mules, and rocks glasses for bourbon drinks.
- Seasonal ice: use frozen apple slices or large ice spheres — they chill without watering down autumn flavors.
- Serve trays: group cocktails with matching napkins, small plates for garnishes, and a simple card with drink name + allergen note.
Batch vs Single-Serve — Which Should You Make?
Batch cocktails (aka punch) are a lifesaver when guests arrive back-to-back. Make them slightly stronger — people add ice and they water down. Single-serve cocktails are better for a curated bar experience.
Allergy & Dietary Notes
Talk about nuts, dairy, or honey in cocktail ingredients. Offer at least two non-alcoholic options and clearly label which drinks are alcohol-free – this helps avoid embarrassing questions from hosts and keeps your table inclusive.
Related: Lemon Pepper Zucchini Pasta With Dill Recipe
What are the best Thanksgiving cocktails to serve for a crowd?
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Which liquor pairs best with Thanksgiving dinner?
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Can I make Thanksgiving cocktails ahead of time?
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What are easy Thanksgiving mocktails for guests who don’t drink?
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How do I pair cocktails with Thanksgiving sides and dessert?
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- Turkey & savory sides: Bourbon Old Fashioned, Apple Cider Bourbon Smash.
- Rich desserts (pecan, pumpkin): Espresso Martini, Maple Bourbon, or a warm Spiced Rum Hot Toddy.
- Light starters: Cranberry Mimosa or Pear & Thyme Gin Fizz.
What’s the easiest Thanksgiving cocktail for beginner hosts?
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How much alcohol should I buy for a Thanksgiving cocktail bar?
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Which garnishes make cocktails look and taste seasonal?
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How do I label alcoholic vs non-alcoholic drinks for guests?
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21 Thanksgiving Cocktails | Festive Fall Drinks to Impress Your Guests

Ingredients
- Pumpkin Spice White Russian
- Apple Cider Bourbon Smash
- Cranberry Moscow Mule
- Maple Old Fashioned
- Pear Gin Fizz Cocktail
- Pumpkin Pie Martini
- Cinnamon Apple Sangria
- Champagne Spritzer
- Spiced Rum Hot Toddy
- Caramel Apple Margarita
- Chai Whiskey Sour
- Cranberry Mulled Wine
- Maple Espresso Martini
- Prickly Pear Mule
- Grapefruit Rosemary Paloma
- Cranberry Mimosa Recipe (Poinsettia Cocktail)
- Pumpkin Spice Irish Coffee
- Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
- Lyre's Spiced Apple Mojito
- Cranberry Prosecco Punch
- Sparkling Apple Cider Mocktail
Instructions
- Pick any one of the cocktails from the list above.
- Enjoy your Thanksgiving Cocktail Party.
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