15 Best Thanksgiving Cocktail Recipes With Vodka

I love finding new ways to make my Thanksgiving gatherings more fun and memorable. Making creative cocktails is honestly one of my favorite ways to celebrate with friends and family.

With the right vodka drinks, I can add a special touch to my Thanksgiving table and impress my guests.

Vodka is easy to use and mixes well with so many flavors, which makes it perfect for fall recipes. I’m pretty excited to share some of the best vodka cocktail ideas for a festive holiday party.

1) Cranberry Vodka Fizz

I like making the Cranberry Vodka Fizz because it’s so easy and tastes refreshing. The mix of tart cranberry and sparkling bubbles just gives this drink a nice holiday touch.

To make one glass, I start with 2 ounces of vodka. I pour it into a glass filled with ice.

Next, I add 2 ounces of cranberry juice. I usually go for unsweetened juice for a tart flavor, but sweetened works too if you want it less tangy.

I follow with 1/2 ounce of simple syrup for some sweetness. Then I give everything a quick stir.

After that, I top it off with club soda or lemon-lime soda. Usually, 2-3 ounces adds the right amount of fizz for me.

Fresh lime juice is a must. I squeeze in a wedge of lime and just drop it in the glass.

For a pretty look, I add a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. Sometimes I freeze the cranberries so my drink stays cold without watering it down.

This recipe is easy to change up. If you like it sweeter, add more syrup. If you want it less strong, use more soda.

I make a pitcher for gatherings by multiplying the ingredients. The Cranberry Vodka Fizz looks great in clear glasses and the red color really stands out at any Thanksgiving table.

2) Pumpkin Spice Vodka Martini

I love bringing the taste of fall to my Thanksgiving with a Pumpkin Spice Vodka Martini. This drink mixes pumpkin pie flavor with a smooth vodka kick.

The result is creamy, lightly sweet, and perfect for cozy nights. The ingredients are easy to find.

I use 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of pumpkin spice liqueur or pumpkin-flavored syrup, 1 ounce of half-and-half, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. First, I fill my cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the vodka, pumpkin spice syrup or liqueur, and half-and-half.

Then I shake everything well for about 15 seconds. Shaking really helps chill the drink and mixes the flavors.

Next, I take a martini glass and strain the mixture into it. For an extra touch, I dust a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top.

It looks nice and adds even more fall flavor. This martini is smooth and creamy, with just the right amount of spice.

It’s not too strong, but I always remind myself to drink responsibly. I like to offer this cocktail at my Thanksgiving parties because it’s easy to make and a fun twist on a regular martini.

If I want to go all out, I sometimes rim the glass with crushed graham crackers. To do that, I dip the edge of the glass in maple syrup, then dip it into the graham crumbs.

It gives a sweet crunch with every sip. The Pumpkin Spice Vodka Martini has become one of my favorite ways to enjoy pumpkin beyond pie.

It’s quick to mix and always gets people talking. I think you’ll enjoy how festive and simple this recipe is.

3) Maple Vodka Sour

I love making a Maple Vodka Sour for Thanksgiving. It’s cozy and has the perfect balance of sweet and sour.

The maple syrup adds a fall touch that pairs well with vodka. To make this drink, I start by gathering my ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz pure maple syrup
• Ice
• Lemon wheel or twist, for garnish

First, I fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the vodka, lemon juice, and maple syrup. Then I shake it hard for about 15 seconds to chill the drink and mix the flavors.

After shaking, I strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice. I like to use a rocks glass because it makes the drink feel a bit more special.

I finish by garnishing with a lemon wheel or twist. The citrus scent makes the drink smell as good as it tastes.

Maple Vodka Sour is smooth, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s easy to make another batch if my guests want more.

4) Apple Cider Vodka Mule

Apple cider and vodka are a perfect autumn match. When I want a cocktail that tastes like fall, I always reach for this Apple Cider Vodka Mule.

It’s crisp, tangy, and just a bit spicy from the ginger beer. To make one, I fill a glass with ice.

I pour in 2 ounces of vodka and 2 ounces of apple cider. Then I squeeze in the juice from half a lime.

After that, I top it off with ginger beer until the glass is almost full. I like to give it a gentle stir.

A cinnamon stick makes a great stirrer and adds more aroma. Then, I garnish with a thin apple slice or a lime wedge.

This drink is easy to make for a group, too. I simply mix up a big batch in a pitcher and set out extra lime and apple slices for everyone to add to their own drink.

The sweetness of apple cider balances nicely with the crisp flavor of vodka. The ginger beer gives a fizzy kick that I love.

If I want it a little sweeter, I add a small splash of simple syrup. For best flavor, I use chilled apple cider and ginger beer.

This keeps the drink extra cold and refreshing. I always recommend using fresh lime juice for the brightest taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 2 oz apple cider
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer to top
• Ice
• Apple slice, lime wedge, and cinnamon stick for garnish

Directions:

1. Fill a glass or copper mug with ice.
2. Add vodka and apple cider.
3. Pour in fresh lime juice.
4. Top with ginger beer.
5. Stir gently and garnish as you like.

I bring out this cocktail every Thanksgiving. It’s simple, quick, and always gets compliments.

5) Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Old Fashioned

I love making a Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Old Fashioned for Thanksgiving. This cozy drink mixes classic flavors with a modern twist.

It’s easy to make and really stands out on the holiday table.

For this recipe, I need 2 ounces of vanilla vodka, 1/2 ounce simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.

I also grab a cinnamon stick, orange peel, and ice. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss in a cherry or two for garnish.

I start by adding the vanilla vodka, simple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass. I fill the glass with ice and stir for about 20 seconds until it’s chilled.

Next, I strain the mix into a short glass with a big ice cube.

To finish, I twist an orange peel over the drink and drop it in the glass. I add a cinnamon stick for a little extra flavor and scent.

A cherry on top makes it look festive. This cocktail smells like fall with every sip.

The vanilla adds warmth, while the cinnamon and orange make it feel special for the holidays. It’s a simple recipe, but it always impresses my guests.

I like to serve this drink while everyone is gathering before dinner. It matches well with Thanksgiving snacks and gets everyone in the mood for dessert.

If I want more sweetness, I add a bit more simple syrup or use a vanilla cinnamon syrup instead.

It only takes five minutes to mix up, so I can make several without feeling rushed.

6) Pear and Ginger Vodka Collins

I love mixing up a Pear and Ginger Vodka Collins for Thanksgiving. It’s fresh, lightly sweet, and has a nice little kick from the ginger.

This cocktail is easy to make and looks beautiful in a tall glass.

To start, I gather these ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz pear juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (or a small piece of fresh ginger muddled)
• Club soda
• Ice
• Pear slices and lemon wheels for garnish

First, I fill a shaker with ice. I pour in the vodka, pear juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ginger liqueur.

If I don’t have ginger liqueur, I muddle a bit of fresh ginger with the lemon juice to get that spicy flavor.

Then, I shake everything well for about 15 seconds. I strain the mix into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.

Next, I top the glass with club soda. This makes the drink fizzy and refreshing.

I give it a gentle stir to blend the flavors.

For garnish, I add a thin pear slice and a lemon wheel. Sometimes I use a little piece of candied ginger on the rim for extra flavor.

The Pear and Ginger Vodka Collins is crisp, bright, and super easy to enjoy. I always get compliments when I serve this at Thanksgiving.

This drink pairs well with turkey and all the classic sides.

If you like your drinks a bit sweeter, you can add a splash more simple syrup. If you want more spice, add a little extra ginger.

This recipe makes one drink, but it’s easy to multiply for a group.

Just mix up a bigger batch in a pitcher and add the club soda right before serving.

The flavor is sweet from the pear and a little tart from the lemon. The ginger keeps things lively.

I think it’s a nice change from the usual cranberry or apple drinks.

7) Spiced Pomegranate Vodka Spritz

I love mixing up something refreshing and festive at Thanksgiving. The Spiced Pomegranate Vodka Spritz is one of my go-to drinks for fall gatherings.

It’s bubbly, colorful, and easy to make.

To start, I grab a glass and fill it with ice. Then I pour in 1.5 ounces of vodka and 2 ounces of pomegranate juice.

For the spice, I add a pinch of ground cinnamon and a splash of simple syrup. If I want it sweeter, I sometimes use honey instead.

Next, I top off the glass with club soda to make it bubbly. I like to stir the drink gently so the flavors mix well together.

The cinnamon gives a subtle warmth without overpowering the tart pomegranate.

For garnish, I add a few fresh pomegranate seeds and a sprig of rosemary.

Sometimes, I even toss in a slice of orange for extra color. The rosemary smells great and makes the drink look fancy with very little effort.

This spritz is light and packed with flavor, so it doesn’t feel heavy at all.

The sweet and tart mix from the juice balances well with the vodka. It’s perfect for sipping while catching up with family or friends.

The ingredients are easy to find at any store. If I’m hosting a group, I make a big batch of the base (vodka, juice, syrup, cinnamon) ahead of time and add club soda just before serving.

This shortcut saves me time but still gets lots of compliments.

Spiced Pomegranate Vodka Spritz brings a fall twist to any Thanksgiving table.

I keep the recipe simple and adjust the sweetness to taste, so everyone can enjoy it.

8) Caramel Apple Vodka Smash

I love how this cocktail brings together the sweetness of caramel and the fresh taste of apples. It’s perfect for fall and Thanksgiving.

The mix of flavors really makes it stand out.

To make a Caramel Apple Vodka Smash, I start with 2 ounces of vodka and 1 ounce of apple cider.

I add half an ounce of caramel syrup or caramel sauce for that rich flavor. Sometimes I throw in a splash of club soda for a little fizz.

I first fill a glass with ice. Then I pour in the vodka, apple cider, and caramel syrup.

I stir everything until the syrup fully mixes in. It’s important to stir well so the caramel doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Next, I sometimes add thin apple slices right into the glass. They look pretty and taste great.

For a fun touch, I like to drizzle a little extra caramel on top or around the rim.

If I want something a bit fancier, I use a cinnamon stick for garnish. The cinnamon smell mixes with the caramel and apple, making every sip feel cozy.

I also like to use fresh apple slices as a snack on the side.

This drink is easy to mix up for a group. I just double or triple the amounts and use a larger pitcher.

Everyone gets the same sweet and crisp flavor in every glass.

9) Salted Caramel Vodka White Russian

When I want a cozy twist on a classic, I make a Salted Caramel Vodka White Russian.

This drink is creamy, sweet, and has just a hint of salt. It brings together caramel, vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream for a rich holiday treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz salted caramel vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
• Ice cubes
• Caramel sauce and sea salt for garnish

I start by filling a short glass with ice cubes. Then, I pour in the salted caramel vodka and coffee liqueur.

I stir them together gently to mix.

I add the heavy cream last, pouring it slowly over the back of a spoon. This makes the cream float on top and gives the drink a beautiful layered look.

Sometimes I give it a tiny swirl with a straw or spoon for a marbled effect.

For an extra special touch, I drizzle caramel sauce around the inside of my glass before adding the ice.

A small pinch of sea salt on top brings out the flavors even more.

This cocktail is sweet but not too overpowering. The salt highlights the caramel, while the coffee liqueur adds depth.

I like serving these at Thanksgiving gatherings. They always get compliments, and they’re easy to make ahead.

Just mix the vodka and coffee liqueur in a pitcher, then add the cream and garnishes when serving.

If I want to make a big batch, I scale up the ingredients and keep the cream on the side until it’s time to pour.

That way, everyone gets a fresh, creamy layer on top.

10) Orange Clove Vodka Punch

I love bringing unique flavors to my Thanksgiving table. Orange Clove Vodka Punch always stands out for me.

The mix of orange and clove brings a cozy autumn feeling to every sip. This drink is light, citrusy, and just the right amount of sweet.

To make this punch, I start with 2 cups of vodka. I usually stick to plain vodka so the main flavors really shine.

Next, I add 3 cups of orange juice—fresh squeezed if I have the energy, but store-bought is totally fine.

I take 1/2 cup of simple syrup for some sweetness. If my crowd likes it less sweet, I just use less syrup.

Then, I toss in 6 whole cloves and let them steep in the punch for at least 30 minutes. The cloves add a warm, spicy flavor that feels perfect for fall.

After steeping, I fish the cloves out. I pour in 1 cup of club soda for a bit of fizz.

For extra freshness, I slice up an orange and add the slices right into the punch bowl. Sometimes I can’t resist tossing in a few extra for the look.

If I’m feeling fancy, I rim my glasses with a little sugar and orange zest before pouring the punch. It makes the drink look fun and festive—definitely a crowd-pleaser.

Serve this punch over ice to keep it cool. The orange and clove just match the Thanksgiving vibe so well, don’t they?

The recipe makes enough for a small group, but it’s easy to double or triple for bigger gatherings. I just wait to add the club soda until right before serving so it stays bubbly.

Orange Clove Vodka Punch is a tasty way to celebrate with friends and family. The simple ingredients and quick steps make it my go-to for the holiday.

Everyone seems to appreciate the bright citrus and gentle spice in every glass.

11) Butternut Squash Vodka Cocktail

I love this cocktail because it adds a unique, seasonal flavor to my Thanksgiving table. Butternut squash is sweet, creamy, and earthy.

When I mix it with vodka, it feels warm and festive. To make this drink, I start by roasting butternut squash.

I dice about 1 cup of squash, toss it with a little olive oil, and roast it at 400°F for about 25 minutes, until it’s soft. Next, I make a puree.

I blend the roasted squash with 2-3 tablespoons of water (or a little apple juice) until it’s smooth. I let it cool to room temperature.

For the cocktail, I use:

• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ½ ounces butternut squash puree
• 1 ounce maple syrup
• ¾ ounce lemon juice
• Pinch of cinnamon
• Ice

I add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice. I shake it well for about 15 seconds.

Strain the drink into a glass filled with fresh ice. I like to use a lowball glass for this one.

For garnish, I sometimes add a cinnamon stick or a thin slice of apple. This cocktail tastes sweet and a little earthy, with a hint of spice from the cinnamon.

The maple syrup goes really well with the squash flavor. It’s a creative way to use fall produce, and it always gets compliments at my gatherings.

If I want it a bit stronger, I add a little extra vodka. I sometimes prepare the squash puree ahead of time.

This makes it easy to mix up batches quickly when guests arrive. If you like, you can rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.

Just dip the glass in lemon juice, then in a mix of cinnamon and sugar before pouring in the drink. This Butternut Squash Vodka Cocktail is a fun twist on classic cocktails.

I’m sure you’ll enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!

12) Vanilla Bean Vodka Cream

I love this Vanilla Bean Vodka Cream because it’s smooth, sweet, and simple to make. It’s great for Thanksgiving when I want a dessert-style drink that feels special.

For this recipe, I use:

• 2 oz vanilla vodka
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1 vanilla bean (or 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract)
• Ice
• Whipped cream and cinnamon (for garnish)

First, I slice the vanilla bean down the middle and scrape out the seeds. I add the seeds (or extract), vanilla vodka, cream, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice.

I shake everything well until the mix gets cold and a little bit frothy. Then, I strain the drink into a chilled glass.

To finish, I top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This makes the drink look festive and gives it a cozy touch.

The vanilla flavor stands out and pairs well with classic holiday desserts. I sometimes serve this cocktail alongside pumpkin pie or apple crumble.

If you want it a little less rich, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For extra sweetness, I add more simple syrup by the half-teaspoon.

This cocktail is creamy but not too thick. The vanilla notes remind me of baking on Thanksgiving morning.

The vodka gives it a nice kick without being overwhelming. It’s easy to double or triple the recipe if I’m serving a crowd.

For a fancy touch, I sometimes rim the glass with cinnamon sugar before pouring. Vanilla Bean Vodka Cream always gets compliments for its smooth and comforting taste.

It’s a drink I love making when I want something special but don’t want anything too complicated.

13) Honey Bourbon Vodka Lemonade

I love mixing sweet and tangy drinks for Thanksgiving. Honey Bourbon Vodka Lemonade is one of my favorites for a cozy holiday gathering.

It’s smooth, a little sweet, and just tart enough to wake up my taste buds. To make this drink, I start by grabbing my favorite vodka and a good bourbon.

I also need fresh lemons, honey, and some ice. I like fresh lemon juice best, but bottled will work if that’s all I have.

Recipe:

• 1 ounce vodka
• 1 ounce bourbon
• 1.5 ounces fresh lemon juice
• 1 ounce honey syrup (mix equal parts honey and warm water)
• Ice
• Lemon slices for garnish

I make the honey syrup first. I mix honey with warm water and stir until it blends in.

This makes the drink smooth and easy to pour. Next, I fill a shaker with ice.

I pour in the vodka, bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup. I shake it well for about 15-20 seconds.

After shaking, I strain the mix into a glass full of fresh ice. I like to add a lemon slice or two on top for a pretty touch.

This drink is perfect for anyone who likes a little kick. The bourbon adds deep flavor while the vodka and lemon keep it bright.

The honey brings everything together with a gentle sweetness. Sometimes, I make a big batch in a pitcher.

It’s simple—just multiply the recipe by the number of guests. Everyone can serve themselves, which makes my life easier.

I often serve this with roasted turkey or a cheese board. The flavors go great with classic Thanksgiving dishes and snacks.

Honey Bourbon Vodka Lemonade is a fun, simple way to celebrate the season. It always brings a smile to my guests’ faces.

14) Gingerbread Vodka Flip

I’m kind of obsessed with the cozy flavor of gingerbread once the weather cools down.

This Gingerbread Vodka Flip is creamy, sweet, and honestly tastes a lot like a holiday cookie.

It’s a fun, festive treat for Thanksgiving—especially if you want something a little different from the usual pie and cider.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce gingerbread syrup (store bought or homemade)
• 1 ounce heavy cream
• 1 egg
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• Ice

First, toss the vodka, gingerbread syrup, heavy cream, and egg into a cocktail shaker.

I always grab a fresh, cold egg—makes the texture super silky.

Shake everything up, but don’t add ice just yet.

This “dry shake” helps the flip get that thick, frothy top that looks so good.

Now, add a handful of ice and shake again for maybe 15 seconds.

It chills the drink and really blends everything together.

Strain the whole thing into a small glass—a coupe or rocks glass is perfect.

Grate a little fresh nutmeg over the top. The smell is so inviting, you’ll want to dive right in.

Sometimes I’ll rim the glass with crushed ginger cookies, or plop a mini gingerbread cookie on top if I’m feeling extra.

If you’ve got kids around, they can try a gingerbread-flavored mocktail—just skip the vodka.

You could swap in oat milk or a non-dairy cream for a dairy-free version.

The gingerbread and nutmeg flavors still shine through, so don’t stress about substitutions.

Honestly, this cocktail works as a dessert or even a cozy nightcap.

If creamy cocktails are your thing, it’ll fit right in at the holiday table.

It’s easy to make a couple at a time for friends or family, and it brings those classic holiday flavors to your Thanksgiving without a lot of fuss.

15) Cranberry Ginger Vodka Mule

I love making a Cranberry Ginger Vodka Mule for Thanksgiving. It’s light, fizzy, and just a bit tangy.

The cranberry and ginger flavors really feel right for fall gatherings.

To make one drink, here’s what I grab:

• 2 ounces vodka
• 2 ounces cranberry juice
• 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
• 3 ounces ginger beer
• Fresh cranberries and lime wedges for garnish
• Ice

First, I fill a copper mug or glass with ice. Then I pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice.

I give it a gentle stir—nothing too wild, just enough to mix things up.

Next, I top it off with ginger beer. The fizz makes the drink lively and refreshing.

Ginger beer adds a nice kick, while the cranberry brings a gorgeous color.

For a finishing touch, I toss in a few fresh cranberries and a lime wedge. Sometimes, if I’m feeling it, I’ll add a sprig of mint for extra color.

This cocktail is easy to make in larger batches if friends or family are coming over. I just scale up the ingredients and mix everything except the ginger beer in a pitcher.

When it’s time to serve, I pour into mugs over ice and top with ginger beer. That way, the fizz stays fresh.

I like how this drink isn’t overly sweet. The tart cranberry and zesty ginger balance each other out.

If I want it less sugary, I’ll use unsweetened cranberry juice. Makes a difference, honestly.

If someone prefers a non-alcoholic version, I just skip the vodka and mix cranberry juice, ginger beer, and lime.

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