Sparkling Cranberry Apple Thanksgiving Cocktail: Your Easy & Elegant Holiday Drink

A Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail is just about the easiest cocktail you can make for the holiday dinner. It only has 4 ingredients and it goes with whatever dishes you plan to serve! Prepare for a truly festive and stress-free holiday celebration with this beautiful, bubbly drink.

About This Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like a signature drink to set the mood for your Thanksgiving feast. While classic cocktails are always cherished, a themed drink truly elevates the festive spirit, making your gathering feel extra special. This Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail is designed to be just that – a simple yet sophisticated beverage that effortlessly complements the richness of your holiday meal.

This delightful cocktail is the perfect welcome drink for your guests as you put the finishing touches on your Thanksgiving turkey. Its balanced blend of sweet and tangy flavors acts as an excellent palate cleanser, preparing your taste buds for the abundant feast ahead. Imagine sipping on this vibrant drink, filled with the cozy essence of fall, while the aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey fills your home.

Still looking for that perfect turkey recipe? Explore our smoked beer-brined turkey or a convenient smoked turkey breast for delicious options!

One of the best aspects of this sparkling cocktail is its incredible versatility. It pairs beautifully with all the traditional Thanksgiving dishes, from savory stuffing to sweet potato casserole, allowing you to enjoy every bite and sip without clashing flavors. It’s a harmonious blend that ensures your cocktail experience enhances, rather than overpowers, the culinary delights of the day. Plus, its simplicity means you can easily prepare it ahead of time, freeing you up to focus on other important aspects of your holiday hosting.

How to Serve on Thanksgiving Day (or for Any Party!)

One of my favorite ways to serve this cocktail is by creating an inviting “do-it-yourself” beverage station. This approach not only adds an element of interactive fun for your guests but also significantly reduces your hosting stress. It allows everyone to customize their drink to their preferred taste, whether they like it a little sweeter or more tart.

To set up your DIY cocktail bar, arrange your chilled champagne, juices, and vodka elegantly. I recommend using a stylish small ice bucket to keep your bottle of champagne and a carafe of vodka perfectly cool throughout the event. For the juices, pour them into separate carafes and make sure to label each one clearly, especially if you’re offering various juice options or if they aren’t immediately recognizable.

For a personal touch, write out the simple recipe on a chalkboard stand, a decorative index card, or a framed print. Include exact measurements (in ounces or milliliters) using jiggers or fluid measurers, allowing guests to craft their ideal cocktail. This interactive element makes the drink experience memorable. Serve these gorgeous drinks in elegant flutes to showcase the bubbles, or for a sophisticated, vintage feel, opt for classic coupe glasses, as pictured here.

Alternatively, if you’re hosting a larger crowd and prefer to simplify serving, this recipe scales up beautifully into a big-batch punch. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix everything (except the sparkling wine) in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Keep it chilled, and just before serving, add the sparkling wine and let the festivities begin! This method ensures a constant supply of delicious drinks with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail is a true lifesaver for holiday entertaining, and here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it: its unparalleled simplicity. You only need a mere four ingredients to create this elegant and delicious drink, which means less time shopping, less time prepping, and more time enjoying your guests.

Forget complicated cocktail recipes that demand an array of specialized tools and techniques. There’s no need to concoct a special simple syrup, meticulously squeeze fresh lime juice, fuss with a sticky sugar rim, or even shake individual drinks in a shaker. You won’t even need a strainer or a specific type of rocks glass. This cocktail comes together right in the glass, making it incredibly straightforward.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its “mix-and-serve” nature. You can prepare it directly in individual glasses for a bespoke experience, or if you’re serving a larger gathering, it transforms effortlessly into a big-batch pitcher cocktail. This flexibility makes it perfect for any size of celebration, from an intimate family dinner to a grand holiday party. It’s truly a minimal effort, maximum impact kind of drink – exactly what you need during the busy Thanksgiving season.

Ingredients

Crafting the perfect Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail relies on a few key ingredients. Choosing the right quality and type of each component will make a significant difference in the final taste and enjoyment of your drink:

• Vodka: When selecting vodka for a cocktail, the general rule is to pick the best quality within your budget. Since it’s blended with juices and sparkling wine, you don’t need a top-shelf vodka typically reserved for martinis where its flavor shines solo. A smooth, mid-range vodka like Tito’s or Absolut works wonderfully. If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, Absolut Elyx offers an extra layer of smoothness without being overly pricey.
• Apple Juice: Opt for 100% pure apple juice to ensure a natural, crisp apple flavor without added sugars that could make the cocktail overly sweet. If you prefer, you can also use unfiltered apple cider for a richer, cloudier, and slightly spicier apple essence. Just remember that if you go with cider, especially a sweeter one, you might want to balance it with a brut (dry) sparkling wine to prevent the drink from becoming too sugary.
• Cranberry Juice: This is a crucial ingredient for its characteristic tartness and beautiful ruby color. It’s imperative to use 100% cranberry juice, NOT cranberry juice cocktail. Cranberry juice cocktail often contains significant amounts of added sugar and other juices, which will throw off the delicate balance of this drink. The pure cranberry juice provides that essential tang that cuts through the sweetness and prepares your palate. If 100% cranberry juice is unavailable, 100% pomegranate juice can serve as a suitable, albeit slightly different, alternative.
• Sparkling Wine: The “sparkling” in our cocktail! My personal preference is a brut champagne. “Brut” indicates a dry sparkling wine, which helps to maintain the cocktail’s refreshing balance, especially when combined with the sweet and tart juices. However, if you have a sweeter palate or prefer a more indulgent drink, prosecco is an excellent choice. Its fruitier, often sweeter profile can be delightful. For budget-friendly options, Cava is another great dry sparkling wine from Spain that works perfectly.

Need a non-alcoholic option for Thanksgiving? Try this Non-Alcoholic Thanksgiving Punch, or simply omit the vodka and use sparkling cider or ginger ale as your bubbly!

This Recipe’s Must-Haves (Equipment)

While this cocktail is incredibly simple to make, having the right serving ware and a few key tools can truly enhance the experience for both you and your guests. Here are some “must-have” items to consider for your Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail:

• Coupe Glasses: For the elegant presentation you see in many of our photos, these coupe glasses are perfect. Their wide, shallow bowl is ideal for showcasing garnishes and allows the aromas to gather beautifully.
• Champagne Flutes: If you prefer to emphasize the effervescence, traditional champagne flutes are an excellent choice. I absolutely LOVE how elegant these Schott Zwiesel Tritan Crystal Glass Pure Stemware Collection Champagne Flutes are – they are truly gorgeous for any special occasion. For a more budget-friendly yet similar look, these Ikea Svalka Champagne Flute Glasses are a fantastic option. If you lean towards a modern, minimalist aesthetic, these stemless champagne flutes are both simple and stunning, reducing the risk of accidental tipping.
• Wine Carafes: For a DIY cocktail bar, elegant carafes are a game-changer. These simple, affordable, and durable wine carafes are perfect for beautifully presenting your juices and vodka, making the station look organized and inviting.
• Message Chalkboard: A message chalkboard adds a charming, rustic touch to your cocktail station. I love this message chalkboard for displaying the cocktail recipe or simply its festive name. It guides guests and enhances the overall presentation.
• Jiggers or Measuring Tools: While not strictly necessary if guests are free-pouring, jiggers allow for precise measurements, ensuring consistent drink quality.

Here’s How to Make a Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail

Making this cocktail is wonderfully straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum holiday cheer. Follow these two simple steps to craft your perfect sparkling drink:

Combine Ingredients

Begin by selecting your preferred glass. Whether it’s a sophisticated coupe glass, a traditional champagne flute, or even a simple highball glass, this cocktail will look and taste fantastic. Carefully pour the chilled vodka, apple juice, and cranberry juice into your chosen glass. Give the mixture a gentle stir to ensure all the flavors are well combined and evenly distributed. Avoid vigorous stirring, as we want to preserve the future fizz!

Top with Bubbly

The final touch is the sparkling wine. Slowly top off your mixture with your chosen brut champagne or prosecco. This slow pour helps to maintain the beautiful effervescence. Once topped, add your chosen garnish – a few fresh cranberries for a pop of color and tartness, a thin wheel of apple for autumnal appeal, or an elegant orange twist for a citrusy aroma. Then, raise your glass, toast to all you’re thankful for, and savor this festive delight!

Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail is all about attention to a few simple details. Follow these tips to ensure your drink is absolutely delicious and refreshing:

• Use 100% Juice: This is a non-negotiable tip. Always opt for 100% pure apple juice and 100% cranberry juice. Avoid any “juice cocktails” or sweetened versions, as they contain added sugars and other ingredients that will throw off the delicate sweet-tart balance of this recipe. Pure juices provide the most authentic flavor and allow you to control the sweetness level with your choice of sparkling wine.
• Chill Everything Thoroughly: A truly great cocktail is a cold cocktail. For optimal flavor and to prevent unnecessary dilution, ensure all your ingredients are well-chilled before mixing. Store your vodka in the freezer (it won’t freeze solid due to alcohol content), and keep your apple juice, cranberry juice, and sparkling wine in the refrigerator for several hours, or even overnight. Serving chilled ingredients means you’ll need less ice, which prevents your drink from becoming watery.
• Consider Large Ice Cubes: If you do use ice, opt for large ice cubes or spheres. These melt slower than standard ice cubes, keeping your drink colder for longer without diluting its flavor too quickly.
• Batch Ahead (Excluding Sparkling Wine): If you’re hosting a party, you can pre-mix the vodka, apple juice, and cranberry juice in a pitcher or carafe several hours before guests arrive. Store this mixture in the refrigerator. Just before serving each drink or when setting up your DIY station, top with the chilled sparkling wine. This saves time during crunch moments and ensures the sparkling wine retains its fizz.
• Taste and Adjust: Before serving a large batch, always do a small taste test. Depending on the sweetness of your apple juice or the specific sparkling wine you choose, you might want to slightly adjust the ratios. If it’s too tart, a tiny splash more apple juice can help. If too sweet, a dash more cranberry juice can balance it.

More tasty Thanksgiving cocktails to try: Cranberry Spice Sparkler | Pumpkin Pie Martini | Last Minute Apple Pie Sangria | Apple Pie Old Fashioned

What Type of Sparkling Wine Should I Use?

The choice of sparkling wine can significantly influence the overall character of your Thanksgiving cocktail. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

• Champagne (Brut): My top recommendation is a brut champagne. “Brut” simply means dry, indicating a very low sugar content. This dryness is key to balancing the inherent sweetness of the apple juice and the tartness of the cranberry juice. A brut champagne provides crisp, elegant bubbles and a sophisticated finish that prevents the cocktail from becoming cloyingly sweet, making it exceptionally refreshing.
• Prosecco: If you generally prefer a sweeter drink, or if your apple juice is particularly tart, prosecco is an excellent alternative. Prosecco tends to be fruitier and often slightly sweeter than champagne, with larger, less persistent bubbles. It can add a delightful, approachable sweetness that many find enjoyable, especially for a festive occasion.
• Cava: For a budget-friendly yet high-quality option, consider Cava. This Spanish sparkling wine is made using the traditional method, similar to champagne, and often offers a dry, crisp profile with fine bubbles. It’s a fantastic value and works beautifully in this cocktail.
• Sparkling Rosé: For a touch of extra color and a hint of berry notes, a dry sparkling rosé can also be a wonderful choice. It will deepen the beautiful red hue of the drink and add a subtle complexity.

Ultimately, the best sparkling wine is the one you enjoy drinking! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties to find your perfect match for this festive cocktail.

What’s a Good Garnish for the Cocktail?

Garnishes not only add visual appeal to your cocktail but can also contribute to the aromatic and flavor experience. For this Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail, you have several excellent options:

• Fresh Cranberries: As you can see in the photos, fresh cranberries are my go-to garnish for this drink, especially during the autumn and winter months when they are readily available. Their vibrant red color perfectly complements the cocktail, and their slight tartness offers a subtle bite when guests take a sip. They also look incredibly festive floating in the bubbly liquid.
• Apple Wheel/Slice: A thin wheel or slice of apple (consider an autumnal variety like Honeycrisp or Gala) adds a beautiful, rustic touch. It echoes the apple juice in the drink and provides a lovely visual element. For extra flair, you can lightly coat the apple slice in lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Orange Twist or Slice: An orange twist or a thin orange wheel introduces a bright citrus aroma and a hint of fresh, zesty flavor that pairs wonderfully with cranberry and apple. The vibrant orange contrasts beautifully with the deep red of the drink.
• Elegant Spice Garnish: For an aromatic and sophisticated touch, consider adding a whole star anise pod or a small cinnamon stick to each glass. These spices don’t just look stunning; they slowly infuse a warm, inviting fragrance into the cocktail, enhancing the overall sensory experience and truly cementing the fall holiday theme.
• Rosemary Sprig: A small sprig of fresh rosemary can add an unexpected herbaceous note and a gorgeous green accent, mimicking a tiny evergreen branch, perfect for the holiday season.

Choose a garnish that speaks to your aesthetic preference and what you have on hand – each option will make your cocktail feel extra special!

I Need Help with Thanksgiving Planning! I Don’t Know Where to Start…

Thanksgiving planning can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry – that’s precisely what I’m here for! To alleviate your holiday stress, I’ve compiled a massive Thanksgiving Q&A guide on the blog. This comprehensive resource is designed to answer almost any question you could possibly have about the holiday, covering everything from detailed menu planning strategies to foolproof recipes, precise timing tips, and essential entertaining advice.

Whether you’re wondering how to brine your turkey, what side dishes to prepare, how to manage oven space, or even how to set a beautiful table, my Q&A has you covered. It’s built to be your go-to companion for a smooth and successful Thanksgiving. And if, by chance, you discover a question that isn’t already on the list, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment on the post. I’m dedicated to responding to every inquiry and providing the support you need to make your holiday celebration as joyous and stress-free as possible.

Need some more inspiration for Thanksgiving? Check out my Thanksgiving recipes page, packed with ideas for every course!

What to Serve with a Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail

The beauty of this Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail lies in its subtle yet distinct flavor profile, making it incredibly versatile. Its balanced sweetness and tartness allow it to pair seamlessly with a wide range of dishes, from savory appetizers to rich main courses and even decadent desserts. It truly is a drink that can carry you through the entire holiday feast.

Perfect Appetizer Pairings:

This cocktail is an ideal companion for light bites that awaken the palate without being too heavy. Here are some of my favorite easy Thanksgiving appetizers that offer a delightful contrast or complement to the drink:

• Bite-Sized Baked Bacon Brie Bites: The savory, salty bacon and creamy brie offer a rich counterpoint to the crisp, fruity cocktail.
• Individual Ginger Acorn Squash Soup: The warm, slightly spicy notes of the soup are beautifully refreshed by the sparkling cocktail.
• Cranberry Walnut Goat Cheese Ball: This appetizer highlights the cranberry notes in the cocktail and offers a creamy texture against the drink’s effervescence.
• Cranberry Goat Cheese Tarts: Similar to the cheese ball, these tarts provide a delightful interplay of tart and creamy flavors.
• Roasted Grape & Balsamic Crostini: The sweetness of roasted grapes and the tang of balsamic vinegar create an interesting flavor dynamic with the cocktail.
• Apple Cranberry Baked Brie: A warm, gooey, and fruity appetizer that perfectly mirrors the apple and cranberry flavors of the drink.

Delightful Dessert Pairings:

Don’t limit this sparkling cocktail to just the start of the meal! It’s also fantastic as a celebratory drink to accompany your Thanksgiving desserts. The fruit-forward profile can cut through richness and cleanse the palate. The Bourbon Caramel Apple Galette is a personal family favorite that pairs exceptionally well:

• Bourbon Caramel Apple Galette: The apple and caramel notes in the galette are wonderfully enhanced by the cocktail’s apple and sparkling elements.
• Caramel Apple Molten Cakes: The richness of these cakes finds a refreshing partner in the crisp, bubbly drink.
• Mini No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Cheesecakes: The lightness of the cheesecake and subtle spice can be beautifully complemented.
• Chocolate Chip Apple Pie Bread Pudding: A cozy dessert that finds a bright, effervescent counterpoint in the cocktail.
• Easy Individual Bourbon Apple Pies: These individual pies are a perfect match, amplifying the apple notes in the drink.

Remember, this versatile Thanksgiving cocktail is equally at home alongside all your classic dinner recipes, from the star turkey to your beloved Thanksgiving side dishes. It’s truly a drink for every stage of your holiday gathering.

If you’re looking for another warm cocktail option to serve a group, consider our comforting Instant Pot mulled wine. For a delightful non-alcoholic warming beverage, this slow cooker hot chocolate is simply the best.

Finally, if you make this sparkling Thanksgiving cocktail, please consider giving this recipe a rating or leaving a comment below! I genuinely love hearing about your experiences and successes in your kitchens, and I make an effort to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have as well!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite thing, and it means the world to me.

Thanksgiving Sparkling Cocktail

The perfect cocktail to kick off your Thanksgiving feast!

Prep Time: 5 minutes mins

Total Time: 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 cocktail

4.4 from 290 votes

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Equipment

• Cocktail Stirring Spoons
• Libbey Stemless Champagne Flute Glasses
• Coupe Glasses

Ingredients

• 1/2 oz vodka chilled
• 1/2 oz apple juice chilled
• 1/2 oz cranberry juice chilled
• Champagne or Prosecco, chilled

Instructions

• Add vodka, apple juice, and cranberry juice to a champagne glass or highball glass.
• Stir lightly and top with champagne. Garnish with fresh cranberries or an orange wheel, then toast to everything you are thankful for and another great year!

Cuisine: Thanksgiving

Category: Booze