As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, we all know that Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It's the time of year where families and friends come together to share a meal and give thanks for all the blessings in their lives.
But let's be honest, the food is just one part of the equation. The drinks are just as important, if not more so.
And what better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than with a delicious bourbon cocktail? Bourbon is a quintessential American spirit that pairs perfectly with the flavors of fall.
It's warm and comforting, with a rich and complex flavor profile that can stand up to all the hearty dishes that grace the Thanksgiving table.
But with so many bourbon cocktail recipes out there, how do you choose the best one for your Thanksgiving celebration? That's where we come in.
We've scoured the internet and tested countless recipes to bring you the very best Thanksgiving bourbon cocktails. From classics like the Old Fashioned to innovative new creations, we've got you covered.
So whether you're hosting a big family gathering or just looking for a cozy drink to sip on while you curl up by the fire, we've got a bourbon cocktail that will fit the bill.
So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the best Thanksgiving bourbon cocktail recipes out there.
1. Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail
Looking for a simple yet delicious Thanksgiving Bourbon Cocktail recipe? Look no further than the Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with the warmth of bourbon and the crispness of apple cider.
Served over ice with a cinnamon stick, it's a festive and easy-to-make drink that will impress your guests. Plus, the added touch of customized glasses using Cricut adhesive foil makes it even more special. Trust us, your guests will be asking for the recipe after just one sip.
2. Orange Cranberry Bourbon Smash
The Orange Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a warming Thanksgiving cocktail filled with flavors of cranberry and orange. Made with Great Value Cranberry Sauce, the cocktail has a bright and true cranberry flavor that is second to none.
The addition of rosemary and ginger adds a touch of autumn charm to the drink. The muddling technique used in the recipe releases the flavors of the fresh rosemary into the liquids and makes it more effective than shaking. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and festive drink.
3. Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned
The Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is a perfect Thanksgiving cocktail that will warm you up on a cold fall night. The cocktail is made with homemade spiced chai simple syrup, high-quality bourbon, winter citrus, a touch of vanilla, and fizzy sparkling water. The syrup is the star of the cocktail, delivering all the flavors of chai tea with a hint of vanilla sweetness.
The bourbon adds a warming kick, while the citrus and sparkling water bring balance to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for those who love chai and bourbon, and it's a great way to impress your guests this Thanksgiving. Make sure to try this cozy cocktail and enjoy the flavors of fall and winter in one glass.
4. Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz
The Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz is a perfect cocktail for Thanksgiving that will warm you up on a cold night. This cocktail is a mix of homemade spiced maple syrup, bourbon, lemon, and orange, topped off with champagne. The spiced maple syrup is the heart of the cocktail, and it is a mix of sweet maple and warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.
The cocktail is sweet, spicy, and so delicious. The flavors go so well together, and it is the perfect warming drink for cold nights. This cocktail is perfect for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you are looking for a cozy cocktail to serve up to your guests, then the Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz is the perfect choice.
5. Cranberry Orange Bourbon With Brandied Cranberries
Looking for a Thanksgiving cocktail that will impress your guests? Look no further than the Cranberry Orange Bourbon with Brandied Cranberries. This cocktail is a twist on the classic old fashioned, combining orange juice with Jefferson's Reserve bourbon and a homemade orange and ginger simple syrup. The real star of the show, however, is the brandied cranberries that are used as a garnish.
These tart little berries pack a punch and are sure to wake up your taste buds after a heavy meal. The cocktail is also topped off with dried orange crisps, adding a crispy and tasty element to the drink. Overall, the Cranberry Orange Bourbon with Brandied Cranberries is a unique and flavorful cocktail that will be the talk of your Thanksgiving gathering.
6. Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned
Looking for a cozy and warming cocktail to enjoy during Thanksgiving? Look no further than the Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet honey, warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, and a splash of fresh orange juice.
Mixed with bourbon and finished off with a hint of vanilla, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cold November night. The spiced honey syrup is the key ingredient that makes this cocktail unique and flavorful. If you're looking for a cocktail that's a little different from the usual Thanksgiving drinks, the Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
7. Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving celebration. This cocktail is a delightful mix of tart and sweet flavors, with the added warmth of bourbon. The secret ingredients are the homemade maple cranberries and maple cranberry syrup that give this cocktail a unique taste.
The cocktail is served on the rocks, with a splash of seltzer water or club soda, and garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a few cranberries. The combination of maple, cranberries, and bourbon is a perfect match for the cold weather and holiday season. If you're looking for a festive and delicious cocktail to serve at your Thanksgiving gathering, give the Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail a try.
8. Fig Walnut Sour
Looking for a Thanksgiving cocktail that's both festive and delicious? Look no further than the Fig Walnut Sour. This bourbon-based cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a beautiful pink hue that's perfect for the season.
The fig syrup adds a unique twist to the classic sour, while the black walnut bitters add a subtle nutty flavor that complements the bourbon perfectly. Whether you're looking for a signature cocktail to serve at your Thanksgiving dinner or just want to impress your friends with your mixology skills, the Fig Walnut Sour is sure to be a hit. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
9. Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving celebration. This classic winter drink is a combination of sweet, tart, and strong flavors that everyone can enjoy. The cocktail is made with equal parts of bourbon and cranberry juice, and a rosemary sage simple syrup that adds a fresh, seasonal flavor to the drink.
The smooth yet flavorful bourbon used in the recipe makes it a perfect holiday drink. The cocktail can be served in a rocks glass, stemless wine glass, or a classic coupe. It is a great option for a party-friendly cocktail and can be made in advance and kept until ready to serve. The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a stunning and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
10. Cider and Maple Old Fashioned
The Cider and Maple Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail that's perfect for Thanksgiving. This cocktail recipe uses apple cider and pure maple syrup instead of sugar, giving it a unique flavor profile that's perfect for fall.
The Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon used in this recipe is a great choice, and the Rye Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup adds a lovely touch. The cinnamon stick garnish is the perfect finishing touch to this exquisite cocktail. If you're looking for a bourbon-based cocktail that's perfect for Thanksgiving, the Cider and Maple Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying.
11. Cherry Bomb
Looking for a unique and delicious Thanksgiving cocktail? Look no further than the Cherry Bomb! Made with fresh cherries, rich bourbon, vanilla, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a splash of club soda, this cocktail is bursting with amazing flavor.
It's the perfect way to end a long day of Thanksgiving festivities. The Cherry Bomb is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that will leave your taste buds begging for more. So why not give it a try this holiday season? You won't be disappointed!
12. Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail is a festive and flavorful drink that is perfect for Thanksgiving. Made with homemade cranberry sauce, bourbon, and ginger beer, this cocktail has a tangy and spicy flavor that is sure to impress your guests. The sweetness of the cranberry sauce and the fizziness of the ginger beer make for a perfectly balanced drink that is not too sweet.
The addition of bourbon gives the drink a warm and cozy feel, making it the perfect cocktail to sip on during the holiday season. If you're looking for a unique and delicious Thanksgiving Bourbon Cocktail recipe, the Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
13. Maple Honeycrisp Bourbon Cocktail
The Maple Honeycrisp Bourbon Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious Fall cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of the season. Made with sweet and tart honeycrisp apples, comforting maple syrup, and a touch of granulated sugar, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
The addition of bourbon gives it a warm and cozy feel, making it a perfect drink for Thanksgiving or any other Fall party. The recipe can also be made non-alcoholic, making it a great option for those who prefer a mocktail. Overall, the Maple Honeycrisp Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail that perfectly captures the flavors of Fall.
14. Hot Apple Pie Bourbon Cocktail
The Hot Apple Pie Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a warm and comforting drink this Thanksgiving. The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, allspice, butterscotch, and bourbon creates a rich and layered flavor profile that is perfect for sipping on a cool fall evening.
The addition of butterscotch sauce instead of butter adds a mellow sweetness to the drink, while the bourbon provides a warming kick. This cocktail is perfect for serving in quantity and ladling out to guests at Thanksgiving dinner. Add some cinnamon sticks for stirrers and you have a festive and delicious drink that is sure to be a hit.
15. Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail
The Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving celebration. This cocktail is made with a homemade rosemary syrup, bourbon, lemon juice, and a dash of maple syrup. It's then topped with club soda and served over ice. The combination of the rosemary syrup and bourbon creates a warm and cozy flavor that's perfect for the fall and winter season.
If you're a fan of bourbon-based cocktails, this one is a must-try. It's easy to make and will impress your guests with its unique flavor profile. So, why not add a little bit of warmth to your Thanksgiving celebration with this delicious Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail?
16. Apple Cider Bourbon Mule
The Apple Cider Bourbon Mule is a fall twist on the classic Moscow Mule made with bourbon whiskey, sweet apple cider, and spicy ginger beer. It's easy to make and perfect for sipping on a cool autumn evening.
The sweet apple cider pairs perfectly with the spicy ginger beer, while the bourbon adds a rich, complex depth. It's a delicious and warming drink that's sure to be a hit at any Thanksgiving gathering.
17. Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned
The Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned is a perfect Thanksgiving Bourbon Cocktail recipe that adds a seasonal twist to the classic whiskey cocktail. The infusion of toasted pecans in whiskey for days before combining it with sugar and bitters makes a homemade Old Fashioned that is perfect for a chilly night.
The end result is a delightful drink that is warm and cozy, perfect for enjoying with friends and family during the holiday season. If you're a fan of bourbon/whiskey and strong drinks, this cocktail should be right up your alley. So, if you're looking for a delicious and unique Thanksgiving cocktail, be sure to give the Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned a try!
18. Pomegranate Ginger Bourbon Cocktail
The Pomegranate Ginger Bourbon Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic old fashioned. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, with a strong kick of bourbon. The ginger simple syrup adds a unique spiciness to the cocktail, while the pomegranate adds a fruity sweetness.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be served over crushed ice or even as a slush. The garnish of pomegranate arils, lime slices, and candied ginger adds a nice touch to the cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for Thanksgiving, or any other occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious cocktail.
19. Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect drink for the holiday season, especially Thanksgiving. With its vibrant pinky-red color and tart flavor, it is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The cocktail is made with infused cranberry juice that is spiced with seasonal flavors like fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg.
The bourbon adds a nice warmth to the drink, while the ginger beer provides a slight fizz. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a copper mug for a festive touch. It's perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at holiday parties. If you're looking for a delicious and easy Thanksgiving cocktail, the Spiced Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
20. Busted Pipe
Looking for a cocktail that's perfect for sipping during Thanksgiving? Look no further than the Busted Pipe Amaro Cocktail. This warming and sweet drink is a combination of amaro and bourbon, with a cherry and lemon peel for added flavor. It's easy to sip and perfect for those who love amaro or bourbon.
The story behind the cocktail adds to its charm, as it was created during the Snowpocalypse of 2021 by a group of friends looking for something to warm their bellies and drown their sorrows. The cocktail is a fun twist on classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned, Black Manhattan, and Paper Plane. If you're looking for something new to try this Thanksgiving, give the Busted Pipe a shot.
21. Cranberry Old Fashioned
The Cranberry Old Fashioned is a delightful and festive cocktail that is perfect for Thanksgiving. Made with a cranberry simple syrup, quality bourbon, and a splash of bitters, this cocktail is a unique twist on the classic Old Fashioned. The cranberry adds a tart and sweet flavor that perfectly complements the smokiness of the bourbon.
It's a beautiful cocktail that is sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving celebration. If you're looking for a signature cocktail to serve at your holiday gathering, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying.
22. The Black Manhattan Cocktail
Looking for a sophisticated and flavorful bourbon cocktail to serve this Thanksgiving? Look no further than the Black Manhattan. This cocktail is a twist on the classic Manhattan, featuring bittersweet Averna amaro in place of sweet vermouth and a second type of bitters.
Whether you prefer bourbon or rye, this cocktail is sure to impress with its complex flavor profile and grown-up appeal. It's the perfect drink to enjoy while lounging in your favorite chair and taking in the changing seasons. So, why not try something new this Thanksgiving and mix up a batch of Black Manhattans for your guests?
23. Bourbon Grapefruit Smash
Looking for a festive and flavorful cocktail to serve this Thanksgiving? Look no further than the Bourbon Grapefruit Smash. This cocktail puts a wintry twist on the classic Bourbon Smash, with fresh rosemary and grapefruit juice adding depth and complexity to the drink.
The addition of Lillet blanc, an aperitif wine, adds a touch of sweetness and rounds out the flavors. This cocktail is perfect for those who want a drink that packs a punch, and it's easy to make in large batches for a crowd. Trust us, your guests will be asking for the recipe after just one sip.
24. Amaretto Bourbon Cocktail
Looking for a unique and delicious Thanksgiving Bourbon Cocktail recipe? Look no further than the Amaretto Bourbon Cocktail with Red Wine Float. This cocktail combines the sweet and nutty flavors of amaretto with the boldness of bourbon and a unique twist of a red wine float on top.
The result is a slightly sweet and complex cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're a bourbon lover or just looking for something new to try, this cocktail is a must-try for your Thanksgiving celebration. So why not shake up your usual cocktail routine and give the Amaretto Bourbon Cocktail a try this holiday season?
25. Bourbon Manhattan
The Bourbon Manhattan is a classic American cocktail that is perfect for Thanksgiving. Made with bourbon whiskey, sweet Italian vermouth, and bitters, this cocktail is rich, sweet, and smoky. The key to a perfect Manhattan is balancing the smoky, sweet burn of bourbon with the sweet, herbaceousness of vermouth.
This cocktail is easy to make and is a great way to warm up on a cold night. If you're a bourbon lover, you don't want to miss this cocktail. So, gather your ingredients and give this cocktail a try!
26. Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
Looking for a Thanksgiving cocktail that's both sweet and strong? Look no further than the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who love the flavors of pecan pie but prefer it in a glass rather than on a plate. The sweetness of the cocktail is balanced out by the bite of the bourbon and vodka, making it a perfect after-dinner drink.
It can be served over ice or shaken and served up as a martini. The addition of pecans as a garnish adds a nice touch to the overall presentation of the cocktail. If you're looking for a dessert-inspired drink to serve at your Thanksgiving gathering, the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
27. Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail
The Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail is a sophisticated twist on the classic Campari cocktail. This cocktail adds a splash of sweet-tart blood orange juice to the mix, which pairs particularly well with bourbon. The intense flavors of this cocktail make it a perfect sip for cooler days and begs to be sipped slowly in front of a warm fire.
The garnish of a slice of blood orange or a twist of orange rind adds a certain je ne sais quoi to the drink. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful Thanksgiving Bourbon Cocktail, the Blood Orange Boulevardier is definitely worth trying.
28. Gold Rush Cocktail
The Gold Rush Cocktail is a classic cocktail made with whiskey, honey syrup, and fresh lemon juice. It's a perfect alternative to the classic bee's knees cocktail, especially if you're running low on gin.
The addition of fresh rosemary and Applejack brandy gives the cocktail a unique twist and a perfect fall vibe. This cocktail can be served on the rocks or up in a chilled coupe. If you're looking for a refreshing and smooth cocktail to serve during Thanksgiving, the Gold Rush Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
29. Maple Bourbon Aperol Spritz
The Maple Bourbon Aperol Spritz is a delightful cocktail that combines the flavors of summer and fall in a refreshing way. The cocktail features the classic Aperol Spritz ingredients of Aperol and orange, but with the added warmth of bourbon and the sweetness of Maple Grove Farms Real Maple Syrup.
Topped off with Prosecco, this cocktail is perfect for cozy nights by the fire or for festive holiday gatherings. The unique combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests and make for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration.
30. The Scofflaw
If you're looking for a Thanksgiving Bourbon Cocktail recipe that will impress your guests, look no further than "The Scofflaw." This classic cocktail is named after those who defied Prohibition by drinking illegally, and it's easy to see why it became so popular.
The combination of bourbon, lemon juice, and grenadine (or pomegranate molasses) creates a sweet and tangy flavor that's sure to satisfy any palate. The original recipe calls for straining the cocktail into a chilled glass, but feel free to serve it on the rocks if you prefer. Whether you're a bourbon lover or just looking for a new cocktail to try, "The Scofflaw" is sure to impress.
31. Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a perfect Thanksgiving Bourbon Cocktail recipe that is infused with sweet and smoky flavors. It's made with smoked, muddled cherries, smoked cherry simple syrup, Anastoga bitters, and campfire whiskey.
The cocktail is filled with rich, musky flavor that pairs seamlessly with the subtle hint of smoke, softened by the sweetness of seasonal cherries. It's served with a twist of citrus rind in a short tumbler-like glass, making it a perfect sultry cocktail for the holiday season.
32. Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz Cocktail
The Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz Cocktail is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving celebration. This cocktail is a blend of bourbon, apple cider, and sparkling wine or apple cider. It's easy to make and can be served in a pitcher for a crowd. The secret ingredient is a homemade syrup that adds a unique flavor to the drink.
This cocktail is perfect for those who prefer a less boozy drink, as you can substitute sparkling apple cider for the bourbon. The syrup is easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a great choice for a busy holiday gathering. The Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz Cocktail is sure to impress your guests and is a great way to kick off your Thanksgiving festivities.
33. Smoked Manhattan With Cinnamon
The Smoked Manhattan with Cinnamon is a perfect cocktail for Thanksgiving. This twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail combines the rich flavors of bourbon with sweet vermouth, bitters, and maraschino cherry syrup. The added smoky flavor of burnt cinnamon takes this cocktail to the next level, making it a perfect drink to serve up to guests during happy hour or as an after-dinner drink.
The warmth of the cinnamon is amplified by burning the cinnamon stick to create smoke, adding a unique flavor to the cocktail. This cocktail is a great pairing for smoked meats and cheese, homemade pizza, or flatbread with hearty toppings. If you're looking for a cocktail that will impress your guests this Thanksgiving, the Smoked Manhattan with Cinnamon is definitely worth a try.
34. Pomegranate Manhattan
The Pomegranate Manhattan is a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, perfect for Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings. This cocktail features a combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, pomegranate juice, and bitters, creating a fruity and flavorful drink that is sure to impress your guests.
The addition of pomegranate juice adds a modern twist to the classic cocktail, making it both beautiful and delicious. The cocktail is garnished with fresh rosemary and pomegranate arils, making it a festive and visually appealing addition to your Thanksgiving celebration. Overall, the Pomegranate Manhattan is a must-try for bourbon lovers looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to serve at their holiday gatherings.
35. Pomegranate Old Fashioned
The Pomegranate Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail to add to your Thanksgiving festivities. This classic cocktail has been given a seasonal twist with the addition of pomegranate juice, giving it a tart and delicious flavor.
The original recipe for an Old Fashioned dates back to the 19th century, and this version pays homage to that history while adding a modern twist. With its full-bodied flavor and festive garnish of orange slices, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. So, add some warmth to your holiday celebrations with this delicious and classy Pomegranate Old Fashioned.
