3 Cocktails to Serve This Thanksgiving

Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a lively house full of family and friends, these three Thanksgiving cocktails are guaranteed to impress—and they’re simple to batch for stress-free entertaining.

Apple Cider Bourbon Punch

Warm, cozy, and unmistakably autumnal. Nothing says fall like apple cider, and this punch turns it into the ultimate holiday welcome drink. Bourbon adds depth, citrus keeps it bright, and a little ginger beer or ginger ale brings effervescence.

Why it’s perfect for Thanksgiving

• Easy to prepare in large batches

• Works as a pre-dinner sipper

• Familiar flavors that appeal to everyone

Recipe (Serves 8)

• 3 cups fresh apple cider

• 1 ½ cups bourbon

• ½ cup orange juice

• ¼ cup lemon juice

• 1–2 cups ginger beer (added just before serving)

• Apple slices, orange wheels, and cinnamon sticks for garnish

Combine the cider, bourbon, and juices in a large pitcher or punch bowl and chill until guests arrive. Add ginger beer right before serving and garnish generously. It’s festive, effortless, and perfect alongside a cheese board or light appetizers.

Cranberry Orange Spritz

Refreshing, sparkling, and beautifully bright on the table. Thanksgiving meals can be heavy, which makes a refreshing spritz a smart choice for balance. This cocktail uses tart cranberry, zesty orange, and sparkling wine or prosecco to create a drink that tastes like the holiday season—without weighing guests down.

Why it’s perfect for Thanksgiving

• Low ABV option guests can enjoy throughout the day

• The color is gorgeous and seasonal

• Easy to customize with gin or vodka

Recipe (Serves 6)

• 1 cup cranberry juice (100% juice preferred)

• ½ cup orange juice

• ½ cup orange liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)

• 1 bottle prosecco or sparkling wine

• Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish

Stir everything except the prosecco in a pitcher and chill. When ready to serve, pour into glasses and top with bubbles. Add fresh cranberries to each glass for a festive touch.

Maple Whiskey Sour

Rich, smooth, and beautifully seasonal. This twist on the classic whiskey sour uses pure maple syrup instead of simple syrup, making it richer, rounder, and unmistakably autumn. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with Thanksgiving flavors, especially roasted turkey and stuffing.

Why it’s perfect for Thanksgiving

• Seasonal flavors your guests don’t expect

• Simple to batch and serve over ice

• Balanced enough for whiskey lovers and newcomers alike

Recipe (Serves 6)

• 1 ½ cups whiskey or bourbon

• ¾ cup lemon juice

• ½ cup pure maple syrup

• Optional: 2 egg whites (for a silky, foamy top when shaken individually)

For batching, combine whiskey, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a pitcher and chill. Shake individual portions with ice (and egg white if desired), then strain over fresh ice.

Final Pour

These three cocktails—cozy, sparkling, and seasonal—offer something for every guest and every moment of your Thanksgiving gathering. Batch them ahead, garnish generously, and let your drinks become part of the celebration. Cheers to a warm, relaxed, and delicious holiday!