15 Best Thanksgiving Cocktails & Mocktails
As fall settles in with its crisp air and colorful leaves, it’s time to start thinking about Thanksgiving. And what would a Thanksgiving feast be without drinks to match?
Think flavors of crisp apple, fragrant vanilla, warm pumpkin spice, tart cranberry, zesty ginger, aromatic cinnamon, and rich maple syrup.
So, whether you’re looking to impress your guests with a cocktail or mocktail or planning a cozy Friendsgiving gathering, we’ve got you covered with 15 drink recipes everyone will thank you for.
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1. Apple Pie Shot
It may be small in size, but it’s got all the warmth and comfort of a big hug. Smooth Vanilla-flavored Vodka courtesy of Absolut Vanilia, tangy Apple Juice, and a hint of zesty Lemon, topped with a sprinkle of Cinnamon and a slice of Fresh Apple. Perfect for toasting to the joy of a hearty Thanksgiving feast.
Here’s how to make an Apple Pie Shot.
2. The Thanksgiving Punch
If not just for the name itself, this festive punch is perfect to serve when you have a large number of guests coming for Thanksgiving. Combining sweetened Cranberry Juice, zesty Lemonade, bubbly Ginger Ale, and garnished with a Lemon Wedge, it’s a drink that perfectly complements the rich, savory flavors of the holiday feast.
See our recipe for The Thanksgiving Punch.
3. Vodka Cranberry
if there is just one ingredient synonymous with Thanksgiving, it’s Cranberry. So, with this in mind, no Thanksgiving cocktail list would be complete without the classic Vodka Cranberry. THE quintessential Thanksgiving cocktail.
4. Virgin Cosmopolitan
The perfect Thanksgiving mocktail? You could say that. A tantalizing mix of Cranberry Juice, Lime Juice, and Orange Juice, which is then perfectly balanced with a touch of Simple Syrup and a hint of Orange Bitters.
Here’s how to make a Virgin Cosmopolitan.
5. Apple Blossom
Apple Jack is an American Brandy made from Apple Cider. It is then aged in wooden barrels for a minimum of two years, before being bottled. The Apple Blossom mixes Apple Jack, Apple Juice, Fresh Pressed Lemon Juice and Maple Syrup to create a drink that’s apple-licious.
The Apple Blossom is an easy to make cocktail – see how.
6. Maple Leaf
An essential at every Thanksgiving gathering in Canada but just as at home anywhere else in the world, the Maple Leaf cocktail blends Canadian Whisky, Lemon Juice and, drumroll please, Maple Syrup. A little sweet, a little bitter – a lot Thanksgiving.
7. Absolut Ginger Martini
Featuring just two ingredients – Absolut Citron and a dash of Ginger Syrup – this zesty cocktail will bring a touch of warmth to any Thanksgiving gathering. So simple, so good.
See how to make an Absolut Ginger Martini.
8. Virgin Appletini
With a mix of Apple Juice, Lemon Juice, and Simple Syrup, garnished with a crisp Green Apple slice, this alcohol-free Appletini (aka Virgin Appletini) is a refreshing and delicate accompaniment to your Thanksgiving spread.
Discover how to make a Virgin Appletini.
9. Appletini
In no small thanks to the humble Apple Pie, there’s something undeniable about the combination of Thanksgiving and Apples that makes the Appletini a perfect choice for the occasion. Light, breezy and sophisticated, the Appletini is a little sweet, a little tart and has a lot of Apple flavor…as you might expect!
10. Connecticut Bullfrog
Although this cocktail originates from, you guessed it, Connecticut, it’s a much-welcome addition to any Thanksgiving table anywhere. It’s a harmonious well-balanced blend of Gin, Light Rum, tart Lemon Juice, and a touch of sweet Maple Syrup.
Wondering how to make a Connecticut Bullfrog? Discover how!
11. Falling Leaves
There’s perhaps no other drink that represents the season better than the aptly named Falling Leaves. A bold blend of Absolut Mandrin, Cider, Cranberry Juice, and Lemon Juice, all tied together with a touch of Simple Syrup and garnished with a Cinnamon Cane and a Grapefruit Wedge. Trust us, your guests will be giving you thanks for serving this one.
Let us show you how to make a Falling Leaves cocktail.
12. Pumpkin Pie Martini
Imagine what would happen if you mixed the smooth sweetness of Absolut Vanilia, creamy Milk, a dash of Cinnamon Syrup and a generous dollop of Pumpkin Puree. You’d end up with a drink that tastes like a Pumpkin Pie in a glass. Welcome to your new essential addition for Thanksgiving.
13. The Gold Rush
A delightful twist on the classic Whiskey Sour. This cocktail features bourbon, fresh Lemon Juice, and runny Honey, replacing Simple Syrup for a richer flavor. It’s a smooth, honeyed drink that fans of whiskey sours will adore—no egg whites needed!
Here’s how to make The Gold Rush.
14. Gentle Sea Breeze
When it comes to Thanksgiving mocktails, the Gentle Sea Breeze is a perfect addition. An alcohol-free version of the classic Sea Breeze cocktail, this mocktail contains Cranberry Juice and Grapefruit Juice, garnished with a Lime Wedge. Fresh, tart and fruity.
Discover how to make the Gentle Sea Breeze.
15. Ginger Cosmo
A zesty twist on a classic Cosmopolitan. Shake up Absolut Vodka, Cranberry Juice, Triple Sec, Lime Juice, and a kick of Fresh Ginger for a tasty Thanksgiving treat.
Looking for more drink-spiration?