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Thanksgiving is more than just turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie—it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels festive, cozy, and memorable. One of the best (and most underrated) ways to do this is through drinks. A thoughtfully prepared drink can warm your guests, balance rich foods, and set the mood for an unforgettable evening.
Think about it: the smell of simmering cider as guests walk through your door, the sparkle of cranberry cocktails served in elegant glasses, or a creamy pumpkin latte to sip alongside dessert. Drinks aren’t just refreshments—they’re an experience.
In this article, we’re diving into 12 Thanksgiving drink recipes that anyone can make. They’re simple, beginner-friendly, and bursting with seasonal flavors like pumpkin, apple, cranberry, and cinnamon. From family-friendly mocktails to sophisticated cocktails, there’s something here for everyone.
Let’s get started with these delicious recipes that will turn your Thanksgiving into a celebration to remember.
No. 1. Spiced Apple Cider
Few drinks say “Thanksgiving” quite like spiced apple cider. This recipe is more than a beverage—it’s a tradition. The aroma of apples, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise simmering together instantly fills your home with warmth.
To make it, start with high-quality apple cider (not apple juice, which is too sweet). Pour it into a large pot and add whole cinnamon sticks, a few cloves, star anise, orange slices, and a touch of brown sugar if you like it sweeter. Let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the cider.
For adults, you can add a splash of bourbon or dark rum before serving. Kids will love it just as much without the alcohol, especially when garnished with a cinnamon stick. This drink is perfect for welcoming guests at the door—it feels comforting and sets the holiday tone instantly.
Apples are rich in antioxidants and fiber, while spices like cinnamon and cloves offer digestive benefits.
No. 2. Cranberry Moscow Mule
If you want a drink that looks as good as it tastes, the cranberry Moscow mule is a showstopper. With its jewel-red color and frosty copper mug, it’s one of the most festive Thanksgiving cocktails you can serve.
This drink starts with vodka, fresh lime juice, and cranberry juice, then topped with spicy ginger beer. The result is tangy, fizzy, and refreshing with just the right kick. Garnish it with whole cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a holiday-ready look that will impress your guests.
The beauty of this cocktail is that it balances heavy Thanksgiving foods. The tart cranberry and fizzy ginger beer cleanse the palate between bites of stuffing and gravy. It’s also quick to prepare in batches—just mix the vodka and cranberry juice ahead of time, then top with ginger beer when serving.
Cranberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a seasonal superfood worth enjoying beyond sauce.
No. 3. Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
A homemade pumpkin spice latte is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket—it’s creamy, spiced, and everything we love about fall in a single mug. Instead of heading to the coffee shop, you can make this at home in minutes.
Start with brewed espresso (or strong coffee), then whisk in warm milk, pumpkin purée, a little maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice (a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves). Froth the milk if you can—it makes the latte feel extra indulgent.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice, and you’ve got yourself the perfect drink to serve alongside dessert. If you prefer a lighter version, use oat milk and skip the whipped topping. This latte is also wonderful in the afternoon as you prep your Thanksgiving meal—it’s energizing but also feels like a treat.
Pumpkin is loaded with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. When combined with spices, it creates a drink that’s not only delicious but also nourishing. You’ll find even more ways to make pumpkin work for you in The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.
No. 4. Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
The old fashioned is a cocktail classic, and this Thanksgiving version adds a rich seasonal twist: maple syrup. Instead of the usual sugar cube, maple syrup sweetens the bourbon beautifully while enhancing its natural caramel notes.
To make it, combine bourbon, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a few dashes of bitters. Stir with ice until well-chilled, then strain into a glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick for presentation.
This drink is bold, smooth, and sophisticated—perfect for sipping by the fire after dinner. The maple syrup gives it a subtle sweetness without overpowering the bourbon, making it a hit with whiskey lovers and casual drinkers alike.
Maple syrup contains antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc, offering more than just sweetness.
No. 5. Sparkling Pomegranate Spritzer
Light, fizzy, and refreshing, this sparkling pomegranate spritzer is a fantastic choice when you want something non-alcoholic but still festive. Its deep red hue looks stunning in glasses, and the flavors are crisp and tangy.
Simply combine pomegranate juice with sparkling water or club soda. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness, and garnish with pomegranate seeds that float beautifully in the glass. If you’d like to turn it into a cocktail, swap sparkling water for prosecco.
This drink works especially well as a welcome beverage—it’s refreshing, easy to prepare in pitchers, and suitable for kids and adults alike. The bubbles and tartness also cut through heavier dishes, making it a good pairing throughout the meal.
Pomegranates are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health during the colder months.
No. 6. Hot Buttered Rum
This is the kind of drink that feels like dessert in a mug—creamy, spiced, and warming. Hot buttered rum is perfect for when the temperature drops and you want something indulgent to sip by the fire.
To prepare, make a spiced butter mixture with softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. When ready to serve, stir a spoonful of the mixture into a mug of hot water and rum. The butter melts into the drink, creating a rich and velvety texture.
Top with whipped cream if you want it extra decadent. The best part is that you can prepare the spiced butter ahead of time and refrigerate it, making it easy to serve to guests on demand.
Cinnamon and nutmeg not only add flavor but also support digestion—a helpful benefit after a big holiday meal.
Discover more spice pairings that heal and energize in The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.
No. 7. Chai Tea Latte
Chai is an aromatic drink with centuries of tradition, and it’s an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving menu. The blend of black tea, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves creates a fragrant, warming beverage that feels festive and comforting.
To make a chai latte, steep chai tea bags (or loose leaf) in hot water, then add steamed milk and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Froth the milk for extra creaminess and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
This drink is versatile—you can serve it non-alcoholic, or add a splash of spiced rum for an adult version. It’s also naturally dairy-free if you use oat, almond, or coconut milk.
The spices in chai are known for supporting digestion and boosting warmth, making it the perfect drink to serve after a heavy Thanksgiving dinner.
No. 8. Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is one of the coziest drinks you can serve during the holidays. Simmering wine with spices not only creates a flavorful drink but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma.
To make it, combine a bottle of red wine with orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Heat gently until warm but not boiling. Serve in mugs, garnished with citrus.
This drink is wonderful because it’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker, keeping it warm for hours while guests serve themselves. The flavor develops the longer it simmers, making it perfect for entertaining.
Red wine is rich in antioxidants, and when paired with spices, it becomes both a festive and beneficial beverage.
No. 9. Pear and Ginger Fizz
If you’re looking for a lighter, more elegant cocktail, the pear and ginger fizz is an excellent choice. It’s refreshing, crisp, and beautifully balanced with just the right amount of spice.
Start with pear nectar (or juice), add a splash of fresh lemon, and stir in finely grated ginger. Top with sparkling water for a mocktail or add gin for a cocktail version. Garnish with a thin pear slice and a sprig of thyme for a stunning presentation.
This drink pairs especially well with savory dishes like roasted turkey or stuffing, as the ginger cuts through richness while the pear adds a natural sweetness.
Pears are packed with fiber and vitamin C, while ginger is known for its digestive benefits. Together, they create a drink that’s as nourishing as it is tasty.
Learn more about combining fruits and spices for health inside The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.
No. 10. Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate
This drink feels like dessert in a cup—it’s creamy, indulgent, and perfect for kids and adults alike. Pumpkin white hot chocolate is a fun twist on the classic hot chocolate, blending white chocolate with pumpkin purée and warming spices.
To make it, gently heat milk with white chocolate until melted and smooth. Stir in pumpkin purée, vanilla, and pumpkin spice. Serve hot, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
This drink is especially fun to serve after dinner when everyone’s craving something sweet but not quite ready for pie. It’s also a hit at kids’ tables thanks to its creamy sweetness.
Pumpkin brings fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, while spices like nutmeg add depth of flavor.
No. 11. Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour
This cocktail is bold, tangy, and layered with fall flavors. The maple syrup smooths out the tartness of lemon juice, while cinnamon gives it a warming holiday twist.
Shake whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, and a pinch of ground cinnamon with ice, then strain into a glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice for a festive touch.
This drink works beautifully as an aperitif before the meal, as its acidity stimulates the appetite. It’s also a nice alternative to heavier cocktails if you prefer something zesty.
Cinnamon is one of the healthiest spices in your pantry, known for regulating blood sugar and boosting warmth.
No. 12. Cranberry Apple Sangria
Sangria is always a hit at gatherings, and this Thanksgiving version blends cranberry and apple for a seasonal punch that looks as good as it tastes.
Mix a bottle of white wine with apple cider, cranberry juice, sliced apples, oranges, and fresh cranberries. Let it chill for at least an hour so the flavors meld, then add sparkling water before serving for fizz.
This sangria is festive, fruity, and perfect for large groups. It’s light enough to sip throughout the day yet flavorful enough to stand out. The vibrant red and orange fruit slices floating in the pitcher make it visually stunning, too.
Both apples and cranberries are nutritional powerhouses full of antioxidants and vitamins.
Discover more ways to bring them into your meals inside The Encyclopedia of Power Foods.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving drinks are more than just beverages—they’re part of the celebration. Whether it’s a cozy spiced cider, a festive cranberry cocktail, or a creamy pumpkin latte, these Thanksgiving drink recipes bring warmth, flavor, and joy to the table.
The best part? They’re all easy to make, even for beginners. With just a few seasonal ingredients, you can create drinks that not only impress your guests but also highlight the flavors of fall.
So this Thanksgiving, raise your glass to gratitude, family, and delicious memories. Cheers to a holiday filled with flavor and love!
