Festive Thanksgiving Drinks to Warm Up Your Holiday Gathering
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s time to start planning for the most wonderful time of the year: Thanksgiving. While the turkey and sides are always a highlight, there’s nothing like gathering around the table with a warm, cozy drink in hand to make the holiday feel truly special. Whether you’re hosting a big family feast or just looking for a way to get into the holiday spirit, we’ve got you covered with these 20 festive Thanksgiving drinks recipes that will keep you and your guests merry all day long.
From classic apple cider to creamy eggnog and everything in between, our collection of Thanksgiving drinks has something for everyone. So grab your favorite mug or glassware, and let’s get started on making this holiday season one to remember!
Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks
Experience the cozy flavors of fall with this simple and aromatic spiced apple cider recipe. Perfect for crisp autumn evenings, this drink warms the heart and soul with a blend of sweet apples, warm spices, and comforting cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 4-5 inches long)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider and cinnamon stick.
2. Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to the cider.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it warm for 10-15 minutes, or until the spices have infused into the cider.
5. Remove from heat and strain out the cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serve Warm: Pour hot spiced apple cider into mugs and enjoy while snuggled up by the fireplace or wrapped in a cozy blanket.
Pumpkin Spice Latte with Whipped Cream
Warm up with this classic fall favorite, topped with whipped cream for an extra-special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the milk and whisk until combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree and sugar until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a large mug.
5. Add brewed coffee and stir well.
6. Top with whipped cream and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Orange Sangria
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing twist on traditional sangria. This Cranberry Orange Sangria combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, perfect for a festive and fruity drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 orange, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons triple sec or orange liqueur
– Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, cranberries, and orange slices.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the triple sec or orange liqueur.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add sparkling water to taste.
6. Serve over ice in glasses and garnish with additional cranberries and orange slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This sangria is a refreshing, no-cook recipe perfect for any occasion.
Hot Buttered Rum with Vanilla
This comforting drink is perfect for cold winter nights. The addition of vanilla adds a sweet and creamy twist to the traditional recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces dark rum
– 1 tablespoon (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Pinch of salt
– Cinnamon sticks or nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a preheated mug, combine the rum, butter, and brown sugar.
2. Add the milk or heavy cream and stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Sprinkle with salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Garnish with cinnamon sticks or nutmeg, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (depending on your desired level of heat)
Maple Bourbon Smash
This refreshing cocktail combines the richness of bourbon with the warmth of maple syrup, perfectly balanced with minty freshness. Perfect for a relaxing evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Crushed ice
– Club soda, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add bourbon, maple syrup, and lime juice to the shaker. Fill with crushed ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your Maple Bourbon Smash!
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a rich and spicy hot chocolate infused with the warmth of gingerbread. This recipe combines the classic flavors of hot chocolate with the cozy spices of gingerbread, perfect for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk or dark chocolate chips, butter, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. Whisk until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add sugar and whisk until dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, if using.
7. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Apple Martini
Transform your taste buds with this sweet and tangy Caramel Apple Martini! A perfect blend of autumn flavors, this cocktail is sure to become a fall favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz apple-flavored vodka
– 1 oz caramel-flavored liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup crushed apples (any variety)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, liqueur, heavy cream, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with crushed apples and a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Pomegranate Sparkler
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Sparkler, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Prosecco
– 1 oz pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– Splash of lemon-lime soda
– Fresh mint leaves and pomegranate seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Prosecco, pomegranate juice, and triple sec.
3. Top with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and pomegranate seeds.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of pomegranate juice to your taste, depending on how strong you like the flavor.
– Consider using sparkling water instead of lemon-lime soda for a more elegant touch.
– This Pomegranate Sparkler makes a great base for other flavors – try adding a splash of citrus or fruit liqueur for added complexity!
Mulled Wine with Citrus and Cloves
Warm Up with Mulled Wine and Citrus
This recipe combines the classic flavors of mulled wine with a twist of citrus and cloves, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, sliced orange and lemon, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired level of warmth.
4. Add brown sugar, ground ginger, and salt. Stir until dissolved.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional citrus slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Start your day with a warm and cozy pumpkin pie-inspired smoothie that combines the flavors of fall with the convenience of a quick breakfast or snack. This recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup frozen pumpkin puree
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to thicken the mixture.
3. Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chai Tea Latte with Honey
Warm Up with a Delicious Chai Tea Latte with Honey!
Are you looking for a cozy and comforting beverage to brighten up your day? Look no further! This recipe for Chai Tea Latte with Honey is the perfect blend of spices, tea, and sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong black tea according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
3. Add honey and whisk until dissolved.
4. Add cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves to the milk mixture. Whisk until well combined.
5. Pour the brewed tea into a large mug.
6. Add the spiced milk mixture to the tea.
7. Stir well and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Apple Cider Mimosa
Start your day with a twist on the classic mimosa by incorporating apple cider and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups apple cider, chilled
• 1 cup champagne or sparkling wine
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
• Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
• Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in 1/2 cup of apple cider.
3. Top with 1/2 cup of champagne or sparkling wine.
4. Add a drizzle of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon, if desired, for added flavor.
5. Stir gently to combine.
Cooking Time:
None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Enjoy your refreshing Apple Cider Mimosa on a crisp fall morning or any time you need a little pick-me-up.
Pecan Pie Milkshake
Combine the rich flavors of pecan pie with the creaminess of a milkshake for a unique dessert experience. This Pecan Pie Milkshake recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons pecan syrup (or 1 tablespoon maple syrup and 1 tablespoon melted butter)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, milk, heavy cream, pecan syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add chopped pecans and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cranberry Mojito
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito, featuring tart cranberries and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 sprig of fresh mint leaves
– Club soda
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint sprigs with a muddler or spoon to release oils and flavor.
2. Add lime juice, simple syrup, and white rum to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Muddle cranberries in the mixture until they’re well-crushed.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
6. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Vanilla Bean Eggnog
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this creamy and aromatic Vanilla Bean Eggnog recipe. With a delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors, this classic treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt until pale yellow.
3. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean, allowing it to infuse for at least 30 minutes.
6. Strain the eggnog through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the vanilla bean and refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Pear Sangria
Elevate your gatherings with this unique and flavorful sangria recipe that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of pears. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, this spiced pear sangria is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (chardonnay or sauvignon blanc work well)
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 orange, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced pears and oranges.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat until smooth and fragrant.
3. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg to the honey. Stir well.
4. Pour the warmed honey mixture over the pear and orange slices in the pitcher.
5. Add the white wine to the pitcher and stir gently.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, with ice cubes if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Hot Chocolate with Peppermint Schnapps
Get cozy with this rich and refreshing hot chocolate recipe infused with the zesty flavor of peppermint schnapps!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps (optional)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk or dark chocolate chips over medium heat until melted and smooth.
2. Add in the heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
4. If using peppermint schnapps, add it to the hot chocolate mixture and stir well.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Pecan Coffee
Start your day off right with this rich and aromatic coffee recipe, infused with the warmth of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee according to your preferred method.
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the vanilla extract to the maple mixture and stir well.
4. Pour the brewed coffee into a large mug. Add the maple mixture and stir until combined.
5. Top with chopped pecans.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Elevate your cocktail game with this seasonal spin on the classic White Russian, incorporating the warm spices of pumpkin pie. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 tsp pumpkin puree
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake and serve.
Apple Ginger Sparkler
Revitalize your taste buds with this refreshing Apple Ginger Sparkler! A perfect blend of sweet and spicy, this drink is sure to quench your thirst on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Sliced apples for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple juice and ginger ale.
2. Add fresh lime juice and stir well to combine.
3. Muddle the chopped fresh mint leaves into the mixture using a spoon or muddler.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the Apple Ginger Sparkler over ice in tall glasses.
6. Garnish with sliced apples and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Summary
This article features 20 delicious and festive drink recipes perfect for Thanksgiving. From classic apple cider to creative cocktails like Pumpkin Spice Latte with Whipped Cream, there’s something for everyone. Other standouts include Cranberry Orange Sangria, Hot Buttered Rum with Vanilla, and Maple Bourbon Smash. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want to spice up your beverage routine, these recipes are sure to please. So grab your favorite mug and get ready to toast the season!
