This year, I’m thankful for these bourbon cocktails.
Fall-inspired cocktails are way more festive than a plain bottle of wine.
Thankfully, they’re some of the easiest to whip up too.
Related: Best Wild Turkey Drinks (Top 10!)
Bourbon Thanksgiving Cocktails
Bourbon is a popular choice during the fall, as its warm, rich flavors perfectly complement the cozy atmosphere of the holiday season.
Here are the best bourbon cocktails to mix up this Thanksgiving!
But first …
What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is produced in the United States, made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. It is named after Bourbon County, Kentucky and must adhere to certain regulations set forth by the U.S. government to be designated as bourbon. It is a popular spirit known for its smooth and rich flavor.
Sip in style this Thanksgiving! Read my 5 Best Crystal Bourbon Glasses on Amazon.
1. Apple Pie Cocktail with Maker’s Mark Whisky
A slice of apple pie in a glass!
This classic cocktail gets a fall twist with the addition of apple liqueur.
The whiskey adds a smoky, woodsy flavor that complements the sweet and fruity apple liqueur perfectly.
Garnished with a slice of apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this drink will make you feel like you’re enjoying a slice of pie while sipping on a classic whiskey cocktail.
Related: 20 Best Apple Pie Cocktails
2. Wild Turkey-and-Cranberry Cocktail
For those looking for something a bit more festive, the Wild Turkey-and-Cranberry Cocktail is an easy way to add some holiday cheer.
This classic cocktail combines the bold flavor of Wild Turkey 101 with tart cranberry juice for a refreshingly sweet taste.
The combination of flavors makes this drink perfect for any occasion, from casual get togethers to more formal gatherings.
This cocktail is incredibly easy to make but packs quite a punch in terms of flavor.
The Wild Turkey-and-Cranberry Cocktail is a delicious and easy to make drink that can be enjoyed year round.
3. Pumpkin Old Fashioned
Ideal for chilly autumn evenings, this cocktail is barely sweet and perfect for sipping by the fireside or at any fall occasion.
Unlike many pumpkin-themed cocktails that tend to be on the sweet and creamy side, this Old Fashioned maintains its true bourbon character while adding a hint of warm pumpkin spices.
The Pumpkin Old Fashioned is a bright orange hue that perfectly captures the fall season while staying true to the iconic Old Fashioned flavors.
For those who love the classic Old Fashioned, this pumpkin twist is a must-try. The pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice give it a fall flavor that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.
4. Bourbon Hot Toddy with Apple Cider
Stir up a hot toddy with a little bit of a Southern twist, try this recipe that combines bourbon with apple cider.
Simply mix together hot apple cider, bourbon, honey, and a splash of lemon juice.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple, and you’ve got a hot toddy that’s perfect for sipping during the holiday!
Related: 11 Best Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktails
5. Pecan Bourbon Old Fashioned
Pecan pie meets the classic bourbon old fashioned in this cocktail.
This twist takes Thanksgiving to a whole new level with brown sugar and pecan liqueur.
It’s fantastic for the holidays!
Related: 30 Thanksgiving Pecan Pie Recipes
6. Blood Orange Bourbon Sour
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or a holiday party, this Bourbon Sour cocktail is a delicious and festive drink that’s perfect for holiday dinners.
It is easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any fall occasion.
Give it a try and impress your guests with your bartending skills!
7. Cranberry Bourbon Sour
This Thanksgiving drink is the perfect combination of homemade cranberry-orange syrup, warming bourbon, fresh citrus, and sweet candied rosemary.
Indulge in the ultimate Thanksgiving cocktail.
8. Earl Grey–Bourbon Punch
If you’re looking for a big-batch bourbon cocktail that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Earl Grey–Bourbon Punch is an excellent choice.
This sophisticated and aromatic drink combines the rich flavors of bourbon with the fragrant and floral notes of Earl Grey tea.
This punch is perfect for serving at a large gathering, as it can be made in advance and served in a punch bowl.
The combination of bourbon and Earl Grey tea makes it a sophisticated and flavorful cocktail that’s sure to impress your guests.
9. Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned
The sweet and tangy flavor of the honey and fruit pairs with the warmth of the bourbon, making this a drink that is sure to become a holiday favorite.
Once you have all your ingredients assembled together in one place, making this classic cocktail is simple enough for even novice bartenders to master quickly.
10. Maple Cranberry Bourbon Martini
Shake things up with this festive bourbon martini. It’s perfect for the Thanksgiving!
Related: 20 Cranberry Sprite Cocktails (Easy Recipes)
11. Maple Bourbon Smash
The Maple Bourbon Smash is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail.
The addition of maple syrup pairs perfectly with the smoky notes of bourbon.
Simply mix the ingredients together in a cocktail shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into a glass filled with ice.
Garnish with an orange wheel and enjoy!
12. Spiced Cranberry Hot Toddy
Add a pop of color to your hot toddy game with this recipe that combines bourbon (or vodka, your choice) and cranberry juice.
Mix together hot water, booze, cranberry juice, and a splash of honey for a drink that’s both tart and sweet.
Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a slice of orange, and you’ve got a hot toddy that’s sure to make things spicy.
Related: 20 Cranberry Sprite Cocktails (Easy Recipe
13. Chaider
Chaider is a delightful combination of chai tea and apple cider.
The warm and cozy flavors of the chai tea blend perfectly with the sweet and tangy taste of apple cider, making it a perfect drink for Thanksgiving dinner.
Chaider is a great alternative to traditional hot cider, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its unique and delicious flavor.
Give it a try this Thanksgiving!
14. Thanksgiving Pomegranate Punch
Looking for a festive cocktail to serve at your Thanksgiving gathering?
Look no further than this delicious and refreshing Pomegranate Punch.
Made with fresh pomegranate juice, sparkling water, and your favorite bourbon, this cocktail is sure to please guests of all ages.
Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and a sprig of mint for a festive touch.
This cocktail is perfect for sipping on while enjoying your Thanksgiving meal, or for serving as a signature drink.
15. Bourbon Pear Spitzer
If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s both refreshing and cozy this Thanksgiving, Spiced Pear and Bourbon Sparkler is the perfect choice.
This cocktail is a good balance of sweet and sour.
The pear flavor is not overpowering, and the bourbon adds a nice warmth to the drink.
16. Wild Turkey 101 Old Fashioned
Wild Turkey 101 Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been around for centuries. This simple yet sophisticated drink is made with Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, Angostura bitters, and a sugar cube.
Related: Wild Turkey Drinks (Top 10 Bourbon Cocktails!)
The ingredients are stirred together in an old-fashioned glass and garnished with an orange peel to add a hint of citrus flavor.
To make the drink even more special, you can muddle some fresh fruit such as oranges or cherries into the mix before stirring everything together.
17. Shoot a Wild Turkey Shot
The “Shoot a Wild Turkey Shot” is a unique and creative cocktail that blends together Wild Turkey bourbon, butterscotch schnapps, canned sweet potatoes, nutmeg, and mini marshmallows.
The ingredients are blended together and poured into shooter glasses, with the marshmallows added on top and browned to the desired level.
The addition of sweet potatoes and nutmeg give the drink a festive, Thanksgiving vibe.
Making this delicious cocktail is surprisingly easy. For best results, use high-quality ingredients.
And don’t forget about presentation; adding so
18. Manhattan
Manhattan is a classic bourbon cocktail that is perfect for Thanksgiving.
It is a simple yet sophisticated.
To prepare the cocktail, simply combine the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir until chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve.
The Manhattan is a versatile cocktail that can be customized to suit your taste.
You can experiment with different types of bitters, or add a splash of cranberry juice for a sweeter drink.
19. Maple Old Fashioned
If you’re looking for a classic cocktail with a twist, the Maple Old Fashioned is a sweet choice.
This cocktail is made with bourbon, maple syrup, and is garnished with an orange peel and a cherry.
The sweetness of the maple syrup complements the smoky flavor of the bourbon, making it ideal for Thanksgiving.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to give the cocktail an extra smoky flavor.
20. Spiced Bourbon, Beer and Maple Martinis
This warm, spicy martini is perfect for sipping on a chilly night.
The combination of bourbon, dark beer, and maple syrup is truly unique.
The aroma of this martini is just as impressive as its flavor, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting from the glass.
The Spiced Bourbon, Beer and Maple Martini is a great choice for anyone looking for something a little different.
Related: 32 Best Gin Martinis (+Recipes)
21. Pumpkin Spice Hot Toddy
Warm up this Thanksgiving with a Pumpkin Bourbon Hot Toddy.
This cozy cocktail is a blend of bourbon, pumpkin puree, honey, and spices.
It’s a great way to end your Thanksgiving feast.
Try serving this Pumpkin Bourbon Hot Toddy with your favorite Thanksgiving dessert. It’s a great way to end the meal on a sweet note.
22. Howitzer
Howitzer is a bold and spicy cocktail that will add some heat to your Thanksgiving festivities.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their drink.
23. Brown Derby
The Brown Derby is a classic bourbon cocktail. It’s easy to make and has a smooth, sweet taste that pairs well with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving dishes.
The Brown Derby is a simple yet elegant cocktail that is sure to impress your guests this Thanksgiving.
Its flavor profile is a perfect complement to the rich and savory flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
24. Newton’s Law
Newton’s Law is a great cocktail to serve alongside your Thanksgiving meal.
It pairs well with turkey, stuffing, and all of your favorite Thanksgiving sides.
Plus, it’s easy to make and can be whipped up in just a few minutes.
25. Apple Cider Bourbon Smash
The perfect Christmas bourbon cocktail!
Enjoying the tastes of the holiday.
This bourbon cocktail features apple cider, cinnamon sugar, maple syrup, and orange liquor.
More Bourbon Cocktail Recipes
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- Wild Turkey Drinks (Top 10 Bourbon Cocktails!)
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