Welcome to the Thirst-Giving Throwdown, where the cocktails are strong and your IDGAF attitude is… stronger. Whether you’re toasting with an Apple Cinnamon Margarita or kicking back with a Spike Hot Cider, these drinks will loosen you up for those conversations you are trying to avoid this Thanksgiving. So, grab a glass and get in the holiday spirit, because the turkey won’t be the only thing getting a little sauced this year!

 

Maple Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a rocks glass, stir together the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters with ice.
2. Garnish with an orange twist.

Description: A fall-inspired twist on the classic Old Fashioned, this cocktail is smooth and slightly sweet with a hint of maple.

 

Cranberry Gin Fizz

Ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Club soda, to top

Instructions:

1. In a highball glass with ice, add gin, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
2. Top with club soda and stir gently.

Description: Light and refreshing, the Cranberry Gin Fizz has a tart and bubbly flavor that’s perfect for a festive gathering.

 

Pear & Ginger Spritz

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 2 oz pear juice
• Ginger ale, to top
• Fresh pear slice, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a glass with ice, combine vodka and pear juice.
2. Top with ginger ale and garnish with a pear slice.

Description: Light and refreshing with a hint of sweetness, this spritz has a touch of pear flavor that complements the spice of ginger.

 

Cinnamon Apple Margarita

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 2 oz apple cider
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker with ice, combine tequila, apple cider, and lime juice.
2. Shake well and strain into a rocks glass with ice.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top or rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for an extra touch.

Description: This fall-inspired margarita combines tequila with the warmth of apple cider and cinnamon for a cozy, refreshing twist.

 

Spiked Hot Cider

Ingredients:

• 2 oz spiced rum
• 4 oz warm apple cider
• 1 tsp honey (optional)
• Cinnamon stick, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Warm the apple cider in a small saucepan (do not boil).
2. Pour the spiced rum and warm apple cider into a mug, stirring in honey if desired.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Description: Cozy and comforting, this warm cocktail is perfect for chilly days, blending spiced rum with sweet apple cider for a seasonal treat.

 

Tipsy Turkey Time

And there you have it—5 Thanksgiving cocktails to keep you warm, festive, and maybe just a little bit too honest with Aunt Karen about her casserole. So whether you're navigating family drama, avoiding questions about your love life, or just trying to make it to dessert with your sanity intact, these drinks have got your back.

Remember: Thanksgiving is about giving thanks... and maybe taking a few "I-need-a-minute" sips in the kitchen. So, pour yourself something strong, laugh at the chaos, and embrace the holiday spirit(s). Here’s to wobbling back for seconds (or thirds) and surviving Thanksgiving one cocktail at a time.

Cheers to you, Tipsy Turkey’s!

 - Austin "Ziggy Zig" Ziegler