Thanksgiving is a special time for family, great food, and sharing drinks. I like to make the holiday even more fun by trying different bourbon cocktails.
These drinks add a rich, unique flavor to any Thanksgiving gathering. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a big family dinner, bourbon cocktails can make the celebration feel extra special.
1) Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned
When I think of a perfect Thanksgiving drink, the Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned comes to mind. It’s simple, smooth, and brings a cozy feeling to the holiday table.
To make it, I grab my favorite bourbon. Then I add a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a splash of water.
I like to muddle these together in a glass until the sugar dissolves. Next, I fill the glass with ice and pour in the bourbon.
I always give it a gentle stir to mix everything nicely. For a bit of freshness, I add an orange peel.
Sometimes, I drop in a cherry too. The orange peel adds a bright aroma and a touch of sweetness.
This cocktail is all about balance. The bitters keep it from being too sweet, and the bourbon gives a warm, rich flavor.
Old Fashioneds are great for gatherings because the recipe is easy to remember and fun to customize. I can even make a big batch in advance if I’m hosting.
If I want to try something new, I use maple syrup instead of sugar. It fits perfectly with the fall season and gives the drink a little extra depth.
Making this drink is quick, and it never fails to impress my guests. It’s a great way to start the holiday off right.
2) Maple Bourbon Smash
I love how maple syrup and bourbon taste together. The natural sweetness from the maple syrup pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of bourbon.
This cocktail always feels cozy and just right for Thanksgiving. To make a Maple Bourbon Smash, I start by mixing a splash of real maple syrup and fresh lemon juice in a shaker.
I add a shot or two of my favorite bourbon. Then I toss in some ice and shake it well.
I like to add a few fresh mint leaves for a crisp boost. After straining it into a glass filled with ice, the drink looks and smells amazing.
Sometimes I use a thin slice of orange or a sprig of mint for garnish. This drink is simple but special.
The maple flavor stands out and makes each sip smooth. I enjoy making this cocktail because the ingredients are easy to find, and it doesn’t take long to put together.
If I want a little sparkle, I top it off with a splash of club soda. This makes the drink a bit lighter, which can be nice before or after a big meal.
Many of my friends who don’t usually drink bourbon also like the Maple Bourbon Smash. The gentle sweetness balances the strong notes of bourbon, making it easy for anyone to enjoy.
I serve this in a short glass, sometimes called a rocks glass. The deep color looks pretty next to all the classic Thanksgiving dishes.
This is one of my go-to cocktails for fall. The mix of maple and bourbon fits perfectly with the season.
3) Spiced Pear Bourbon Fizz
I love adding a fruity twist to my fall drinks, and the Spiced Pear Bourbon Fizz always hits the spot. The sweet flavor of fresh pear pairs well with the warm notes of bourbon.
For this cocktail, I start by muddling some ripe pear in a shaker. I add bourbon, lemon juice, and a pinch of ground cinnamon.
The cinnamon brings out the autumn spice I look for in Thanksgiving drinks. After shaking everything with ice, I strain the mix into a glass filled with more ice.
Then, I top it off with club soda to give it a fun fizz. This makes the drink light and refreshing.
A thin slice of pear and a cinnamon stick look beautiful as garnish. I sometimes add a sprig of rosemary for extra color and aroma.
The result is a simple but tasty fall drink. Its gentle spice and fresh pear flavor make it a great choice for the holiday table.
4) Cranberry Bourbon Mule
I love how the Cranberry Bourbon Mule adds a fresh holiday twist to the classic mule drink. It has a nice balance of tart cranberry, smooth bourbon, fizzy ginger beer, and a hint of lime.
This drink always looks so bright and festive on my Thanksgiving table. To make one, I grab a glass with ice and add 2 ounces of bourbon.
I pour in 1 ounce of cranberry juice—just enough for that fruity kick. Next, I squeeze in a bit of fresh lime juice for tang.
Topping it with ginger beer makes it bubbly and refreshing. I like to garnish mine with a few fresh cranberries and a lime wedge.
Sometimes, I’ll add a sprig of rosemary for an extra pop of color and flavor. The ingredients are easy to find, which makes this a simple cocktail to whip up for guests.
This mule has the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors. It pairs nicely with turkey, stuffing, or even dessert.
The cranberry not only tastes good but also fits the Thanksgiving theme. Whenever I serve this, friends always comment on how pretty the drink looks.
It’s a nice way to add something special to the holiday meal without a lot of extra effort. The Cranberry Bourbon Mule always gets a good reaction at my gatherings.
5) Apple Cider Bourbon Bourbon Cocktail
When fall comes around, I always look forward to mixing up an Apple Cider Bourbon Bourbon Cocktail. The mix of fresh apple cider and bold bourbon is perfect for a cozy Thanksgiving.
I start by grabbing a large glass and filling it with ice. Next, I add two ounces of bourbon and four ounces of apple cider.
If I want it a bit sweeter, I pour in half an ounce of maple syrup. For extra flavor, I squeeze in a little lemon juice.
Then, I stir everything together until it’s nice and cold. The apple cider gives the drink a crisp, juicy taste that I really enjoy.
To finish, I like to top it with a splash of ginger ale for some bubbles. Sometimes I garnish my glass with a slice of fresh apple or a cinnamon stick.
These simple touches make my drink feel more festive. This cocktail is quick to make and doesn’t need fancy tools.
It’s great for sharing, too. When my friends come over for Thanksgiving, I make a big batch so everyone can have some.
If I want to change things up, I might use spiced apple cider instead of regular. This gives the drink extra warmth and a hint of spice.
I think the best part is how refreshing the cocktail tastes. It balances sweet and tart flavors, letting the bourbon shine without being too strong.
This is always one of my favorite ways to celebrate the fall season. The flavors remind me of picking apples and cool autumn days.
It’s easy, festive, and sure to be a hit at any Thanksgiving table.
6) Pumpkin Bourbon Sour
I love a good fall cocktail, and the Pumpkin Bourbon Sour is honestly one of my favorites. This drink brings together smooth bourbon and pumpkin puree with a splash of lemon juice.
It’s somehow both cozy and refreshing. To make it, I mix 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of lemon juice, 1/2 ounce of maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree.
I shake everything with ice so it gets nice and cold. Then I strain it into a glass—simple as that.
The lemon juice adds this bright zing that just works with the creamy pumpkin. Bourbon gives the drink a rich, warming base.
I always garnish with a pinch of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick. Gotta have that festive touch.
This cocktail smells like fall, and it looks pretty in the glass with its orange color. The maple syrup is just enough to sweeten things up.
If I want to make it a bit fancier for guests, I’ll add a thin orange wheel on top. The pumpkin and bourbon combo might sound odd, but trust me—it works.
I like that the ingredients are simple and easy to find. I can whip this up in a few minutes and serve it right away.
It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to try something different this holiday season.
7) Ginger Bourbon Toddy
I love a warm drink in the fall, especially when it’s packed with flavor. The Ginger Bourbon Toddy is right up there for Thanksgiving—soothing, a touch spicy, and super easy to make.
I heat up a cup of water until it’s steamy, then add a shot of bourbon, a spoonful of honey, and a slice of fresh ginger. Stir it all together till the honey melts in, and you get that gentle ginger heat.
Lemon juice is a must for me—just a squeeze for a fresh, tangy kick. Sometimes I’ll toss in a cinnamon stick for extra warmth.
This toddy is my go-to when I want to relax after dinner. It isn’t too strong, but the bourbon still shines through.
I think the mix of ginger and bourbon is what makes this cocktail stand out. It feels classic but not boring.
If you want to switch it up, try maple syrup instead of honey. It’s a little sweeter and goes great with the ginger.
When I serve this, I like to garnish with a thin lemon slice or a bit of candied ginger. Looks pretty and adds extra flavor.
The Ginger Bourbon Toddy is simple, cozy, and just right for Thanksgiving. It puts me in the holiday spirit every time.
8) Bourbon Pecan Pie Martini
I love a dessert-inspired drink, and the Bourbon Pecan Pie Martini is perfect for Thanksgiving. This cocktail mixes the classic flavors of pecan pie with smooth bourbon.
It looks fancy but is actually simple to make. For this martini, I start with good bourbon and add pecan liqueur or a splash of toasted pecan syrup.
Vanilla extract makes it smell and taste just like fresh-baked pie. I shake everything with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
If I want extra sweetness, I add a bit of half-and-half or cream. It makes the drink creamy, almost like pie filling.
Sometimes I rim the glass with crushed pecans for a little crunch. Garnishing with whipped cream and a pecan on top makes the cocktail feel pretty special.
I love serving this as a dessert drink after Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a fun twist that reminds me of my favorite holiday treat.
Anyone looking for a unique and festive cocktail should try the Bourbon Pecan Pie Martini. It’s an easy way to bring the taste of pecan pie into a glass.
9) Smoky Bourbon Manhattan
I love the Smoky Bourbon Manhattan, but adding a smoky twist makes it perfect for Thanksgiving. This version uses bourbon instead of rye, so you get those rich, deep flavors.
I like to use a smoked glass or add a hint of smoked bitters for that special touch. To make it, I pour 2 ounces of bourbon and 1 ounce of sweet vermouth into a mixing glass.
Then, I add a few dashes of Angostura bitters and stir with ice until it’s cold. Sometimes I swirl a bit of smoke into the glass before pouring the drink in—just for fun.
The smoky scent mixes well with the sweet and spicy bourbon. I usually garnish with a cherry or an orange peel for a simple finish.
I find this cocktail works great as a pre-dinner drink. The bold flavors pair well with fall dishes and hearty appetizers.
Using real smoked wood chips or a smoke gun can make a big difference. If I don’t have those, a drop of liquid smoke or a smoked cherry does the trick.
I try not to overdo it—a little smoke goes a long way. If you want something different, try swapping sweet vermouth for a spiced vermouth.
This Smoky Bourbon Manhattan has become one of my Thanksgiving favorites. It’s easy to make, but feels special.
This drink is best served in a chilled coupe or martini glass. I like mine without ice, but you can serve it on the rocks if you want.
A Smoky Bourbon Manhattan is simple, flavorful, and perfect for holiday gatherings.
10) Bourbon Cinnamon Hot Toddy
When the weather gets chilly, I love making a Bourbon Cinnamon Hot Toddy. This cozy drink is easy to mix and warms me up from the inside out.
To make it, I start with a shot of bourbon in my favorite mug. I add a spoonful of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
Then, I squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice. Next, I pour in some hot water and give it a gentle stir.
I like to drop in a cinnamon stick to add a warm, spicy aroma. If I want even more flavor, I sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top.
This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving evenings. The cinnamon and bourbon pair so well together, reminding me of classic holiday desserts.
I sometimes add a lemon slice or a clove for extra warmth. The Bourbon Cinnamon Hot Toddy is simple, but it feels special.
I can sip it while chatting with family or relaxing after a big meal. Whenever I need something comforting, this hot toddy is my go-to.
11) Honey Bourbon Lemonade
When I want a drink that’s both sweet and tangy, Honey Bourbon Lemonade is one of my top choices. The mix of bourbon and fresh lemon makes every sip refreshing and smooth.
I like to start by squeezing real lemons. The fresh juice is brighter than the bottled kind.
To that, I add a spoonful of honey. Stirring the honey into warm water first helps it mix better with the lemonade.
Next, I pour in the bourbon. I think two ounces is the perfect amount, but you can use a little more or less if you want it lighter or stronger.
For more flavor, I sometimes add a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint on top. This drink is easy to make in a big batch for friends or family.
Just mix it all together in a pitcher and pour over ice. It looks great in simple glasses with ice cubes and a lemon wedge.
I’ve found that Honey Bourbon Lemonade goes well with turkey and stuffing. Its sweetness doesn’t overpower, and the lemon cuts through heavier flavors.
It’s also a good choice for guests who want something lighter than a classic bourbon cocktail. I like to keep the recipe simple—lemon, honey, bourbon, and water.
If you want, you can use sparkling water instead of still water for a little fizz. Every time I serve this drink at Thanksgiving, people ask for the recipe.
It’s a favorite for a reason. If you want a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy and festive, this cocktail is worth a try.
12) Brown Sugar Bourbon Flip
When I’m craving something rich and smooth, I’ll whip up a Brown Sugar Bourbon Flip. It’s creamy and sweet—definitely a Thanksgiving night kind of drink.
The combo of bourbon, brown sugar, egg, and a hint of spice gives this cocktail a warm, welcoming flavor. I start by adding 2 ounces of bourbon to my shaker.
Then, in goes half an ounce of brown sugar syrup. I crack in a fresh egg and toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg—sometimes both if I’m feeling wild.
I always do a dry shake first, no ice, just to blend everything and get that creamy texture. After that, I add ice and shake again to chill it down and make it nice and frothy.
Once it’s ready, I strain it into a small glass and top with a little nutmeg. The egg makes it velvety but not too heavy—kind of magical, honestly.
If you’re weirded out by raw eggs, just grab pasteurized ones from the store. Sometimes I’ll skip the nutmeg and stick a cinnamon stick in for the scent instead.
Brown sugar really brings a deep, rich sweetness that just works with bourbon. I swear it’s better than using plain sugar here.
No brown sugar syrup? Just mix equal parts brown sugar and hot water. Easy fix.
This drink looks fancy but it’s honestly a breeze to make. I like sharing it with friends—people always comment on the creamy texture and that sweet, spiced flavor.
It works as a dessert cocktail or an after-dinner treat. Feels like a nice way to close out Thanksgiving, if you ask me.
Making it doesn’t take long. The shaking is the only real effort, but it’s worth it for that foamy top.
If you’re into bourbon and want to try something a little different, give this flip a shot. Might even become a new holiday tradition. And don’t skip the nutmeg or cinnamon on top—it’s the best part!
13) Sweet Potato Bourbon Smash
I’m always looking for new ways to use sweet potatoes. One Thanksgiving, I tried tossing them into a drink, and the Sweet Potato Bourbon Smash was born.
The base is just mashed sweet potato. I mix it with bourbon, some maple syrup, and a splash of lemon juice.
The sweet potato gives the drink a creamy texture and a rich flavor that’s hard to beat. To make it, I mash a cooked sweet potato and shake it up with bourbon, ice, maple syrup, and lemon juice.
Then I strain it into a glass full of ice. Sometimes I’ll add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a little extra warmth.
The bourbon pairs so well with the sweetness of the potato. It’s cozy, smooth, and just feels like Thanksgiving in a glass.
I like to use a garnish for a pop of color. Cinnamon stick, orange slice—either one works and makes the drink look even better.
When friends come over, I’ll make a batch. They always say it’s different, in a good way. It’s fun to serve a drink that’s a little unexpected but still totally festive.
If you’re a sweet potato fan, I think you’ll get a kick out of this cocktail. It’s a simple way to mix up your Thanksgiving drinks.
14) Bourbon Maple Boulevardier
Sometimes for Thanksgiving, I want something a little different—so I’ll make a Bourbon Maple Boulevardier. It’s simple but loaded with autumn flavors.
The trick is using real maple syrup for just the right touch of sweetness. I mix bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a glass of ice.
Then I add a small spoonful of maple syrup and stir until it’s cold. The syrup balances out the bitters and makes it go down smooth.
I love how the bourbon’s warmth works with the herbal Campari and soft maple. It looks great in a short glass with an orange twist or cherry—the colors just scream fall, honestly.
This drink feels fancy but doesn’t take much effort. If I’m pressed for time but want to impress, this is my go-to. Good bourbon and real maple syrup really make a difference here.
I usually serve it before dinner or as an evening sipper. The Boulevardier started as a Negroni riff, swapping gin for bourbon, and the maple gives it that extra-cozy holiday vibe.
Want it sweeter? Add more syrup. Need a stronger kick? Splash in extra bourbon. I just tweak it to match my mood or whoever’s at the table.
An orange twist on top adds a pop of citrus and makes it look festive. It’s one of my favorite ways to get into the season with friends and family. Bourbon just belongs on the holiday menu, don’t you think?
15) Fig and Bourbon Old Fashioned
I love the twist figs bring to a classic Old Fashioned. Figs add this gentle sweetness and a bit of earthiness that’s honestly hard to beat.
Paired with bourbon, you get a rich, layered flavor that just feels right for Thanksgiving.
To make this Fig and Bourbon Old Fashioned, I usually muddle a fresh or dried fig with a sugar cube and a few dashes of bitters. That step really helps pull all the flavor from the fig.
Then I pour in a shot of my favorite bourbon—sometimes I don’t measure all that carefully—and add a little splash of water.
I give it all a good stir so the flavors can meld. After that, I strain it into a glass with ice.
Honestly, a big ice cube is my go-to since it melts slower and keeps things from getting watery too fast.
This drink looks amazing with a small slice of fig or an orange peel on top. Those simple garnishes really make it pop on the table and add a nice touch of color.
Figs are in season during the fall, so they’re easy to find in most stores right now. If I can’t find fresh figs, dried figs work well, too.
I just make sure to press them really well when muddling to get all the flavor out.
