Simple Thanksgiving Cocktails that say “Welcome, Fall!”

You may not realize, but Thanksgiving marks the beginning of “cocktail season” for many. Some people have holiday get-togethers throughout the winter, and of course, there are the family meals, the Black Friday shopping trips and the grandiose holiday meals. 

But 2020 is here, and there is a lingering pandemic in the shadow of a heated presidential race. This is definitely a year where a relaxing homemade cocktail may be just the thing to get you through the holidays. 

Surprisingly, there are lots of options for cocktail-makers who want to put together their own Thanksgiving drink. Sweet potato vodka? Get yours here. Cranberry bitters? Easy. Apple whiskey? Lots of choices. There are no cocktail options with gravy, thankfully. 

While home cocktail-making can feel intimidating, there are many options for a budding home bartender that involve very little planning, prep or even skill. Here are 2 simple recipes to get you ready to enjoy your fall celebrations.

Applejack is a traditional spirit that dates back to the early days of the American colonies - it’s a type of brandy. Here is a pre-prohibition cocktail that will go great with turkey dinner.

Jack Rose

• 1 1/2 ounces applejack (like Laird’s)

• 3/4 ounces fresh-squeezed lemon juice

• 1/2 ounce grenadine

• Shake with ice and serve in a chilled cocktail glass

• Garnish with a lemon twist

After the Big Meal, try a Scotch, Soda, Cranberry:

• In a rocks glass, add:

• 1 oz blended scotch (Dewar’s or The Famous Grouse are great)

• 1 oz chilled club soda

• 2 dashes of cranberry bitters

For this year’s big family holiday, we hope you take a minute to enjoy a homemade cocktail or two. Stayed tuned to the Egg to Apples blog for more fun ways to celebrate!