Happy Turkey Day. If you’re anything like us, you’re probably totally ready to get your gobble gobble on today. We know you’re going to do your share of eating, but what’s on your drink menu? Are you just settling for that cheap bottle of no-name wine Aunt Shelly puts out on the table, or are you going to take matters into your own hands and whip up some awesome cocktails?
That’s what we thought.
We know a lot of you are on vacation today, so we don’t want you to do too much thinking (or research). That’s why we’ve already put together a list of three cocktails that will go great with hors d’oeuvres, the main meal and, of course, dessert.
With Appetizers: Cranberry Champagne Cocktail
This cocktail is light, refreshing and a nice way to get the party started. The Champagne’s bubbles will go to your head a little, but the drink won’t make you full and stop you from enjoying your day of eating.
- In a chilled Champagne flute, add 1 oz. sweetened cranberry juice and a squeeze of one lime wedge.
- Top off the glass with Champagne or sparkling wine.
- Garnish with 3 or 4 cranberries.
With Dinner: Bourbon Maple Apple Cider
Sip this bourbon cocktail nice and slow through dinner and it will enhance all of the wonderful flavors you’re enjoying.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add 3 oz. bourbon, 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice, 2-4 tsp. pure maple syrup (to taste), and 1/2 cup apple cider. Shake vigorously.
- Strain into an ice filled glass and garnish with a slice of apple.
With Dessert: Pumpkin Pie Martini
Forget the pumpkin pie – you’re having a Pumpkin Pie Martini this year.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 oz. vanilla vodka, 1 oz. Godiva white chocolate liqueur, 2 oz. half and half, 2 Tbsp. pumpkin pie filling (whisk it before you put it in the shaker), and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Make sure you shake it up really good so the pumpkin pie filling thins out and incorporates itself nicely into the drink.
- Rim a martini glass with cinnamon and sugar.
- Pour the drink into the glass and garnish with whipped cream, a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
No matter what you’re drinking, make sure you have a cocktail in hand today. Cheers to Thanksgiving.