Thanksgiving is not just about the turkey, the stuffing, or the endless array of sides—it’s also about creating moments of joy, gratitude, and, let’s be honest, navigating those awkward family conversations. What better way to complement the warmth and complexity of this holiday than with a curated selection of cocktails that pair perfectly with your Thanksgiving feast? Whether hosting a grand dinner, enjoying a laid-back Friendsgiving, or savoring the day in solitude with the game on, these cocktails will surely enhance your celebration.
Thanksgiving Cocktail: The Perfect Aperitif
- Ingredients: Gin, vermouth, apricot brandy, lemon juice
- Preparation: This cocktail is simple at its finest, blending the botanical notes of gin with the sweet and tangy profiles of apricot brandy and lemon. Serve it as an aperitif to awaken the palate and set the stage for the next flavorsome meal. Its elegant balance makes it ideal for easing into the day’s festivities.
Recipe:
- 3/4 oz of Gin
- 3/4 oz of dry vermouth
- 3/4 oz of Apricot Brandy
- 1/4 oz of Lemon Juice
- maraschino cherry (or cherry)
Combine gin, vermouth, brandy, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail. Garnish with a cherry.
Polished Princess: A Toast to the Season
- Ingredients: Vodka, cranberry juice, pumpkin spice, and a splash of cream
- Preparation: Despite its playful name, the Polished Princess is a sophisticated blend of seasonal favorites. The cranberry juice’s tartness perfectly complements the pumpkin spice’s warmth, while vodka provides a smooth base, and a touch of cream adds a luxurious frothiness. This cocktail celebrates fall’s bounty in a glass—don’t let its name deter you from savoring its delightful complexity.
Recipe:
- 1 1/2 oz of vanilla vodka
- 3/4 oz of simple syrup
- 1/2 oz of Lemon Juice
- cranberries
- pumpkin spice
- egg white (or egg)
Muddle 5 cranberries with simple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of pumpkin spice in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add the remaining ingredients and vigorously dry shake for at least 15 seconds until the egg white is frothy. Add ice and shake again. Strain into a chilled martini glass and add a few extra cranberries for garnish.
Steelers Hot Apple Cider: A Comforting Digestif
- Ingredients: Hot apple cider, bourbon (Maker’s Mark recommended), a cinnamon stick, and a slice of lemon
- Preparation: Relax with this comforting hot cider concoction after indulging in the Thanksgiving feast. Inspired by the spirit of football and crafted with the warmth of bourbon, it’s the perfect digestif. The spicy-sweet aroma of apple cider infused with bourbon soothes the stomach and warms the soul, making it an excellent companion for post-dinner relaxation and game-watching.
Recipe:
Combine bourbon and cider in a large saucepan. Add the thinly sliced lemon, 6 cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks, and allspice. Heat the mixture over medium-high until the surface almost begins to bubble. Ladle into mugs or Irish coffee glasses and garnish with cinnamon sticks. Makes 5 servings.
Thanksgiving is a time for embracing traditions while making room for new ones. These cocktails offer a mix of classic flavors and contemporary twists, ensuring that every sip adds to the memories. Whether you’re in the company of loved ones or enjoying a moment of solitude, these drinks celebrate the season’s richness and the simple pleasures that come with it.
As the day winds down and thoughts turn to the frenzy of holiday shopping, remember that the best deals—and the true spirit of the season—can often be found in the comfort of your home with a well-crafted cocktail in hand. Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with good food, great drinks, and even better company.