Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and good food. While many enjoy festive cocktails during the holiday seasons, not everyone drinks alcohol. This is where the Thanksgiving Mocktail comes in. This delightful non-alcoholic drink is a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving table. It’s refreshing, flavorful, and everyone can enjoy it. Let’s dive into why you should make this mocktail and how to prepare it!
Why make this recipe
The Thanksgiving Mocktail is an excellent choice for many reasons. First, it brings a festive flair to your gathering without the alcohol. It’s friendly for guests of all ages, making sure everyone feels included. The combination of apple cider, cranberry juice, and ginger ale delivers a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements savory Thanksgiving dishes. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your celebration and less time stressing in the kitchen.
How to prepare Thanksgiving Mocktail Recipe
Making the Thanksgiving Mocktail is as simple as gathering your ingredients and mixing them together. It takes just a few minutes, yet the result is a beautiful and delicious drink that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup ginger ale
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
Steps:
- In a large pitcher, combine the apple cider, cranberry juice, and ginger ale.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries.
- Serve over ice and enjoy!
How to serve Thanksgiving Mocktail Recipe
To serve the Thanksgiving Mocktail, fill glasses with ice and pour the mixture over it. The vibrant colors of the orange slices and fresh cranberries will make for a lovely presentation. You can also garnish glasses with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for an extra touch. Encourage your guests to mix their drinks a bit to get all the flavors mingling together. This drink is best served cold, making it a refreshing choice, especially if you have guests coming over.
How to store
If you have leftovers, it’s easy to store the Thanksgiving Mocktail. Just put any remaining mixture in a pitcher and keep it in the refrigerator. It can safely stay fresh for up to two days. Just note that the ginger ale may lose some fizz after sitting. If you’d like to enjoy it bubbly, consider adding fresh ginger ale just before serving.
Tips to make Thanksgiving Mocktail Recipe perfectly
To ensure your Thanksgiving Mocktail is a hit, choose high-quality apple cider and cranberry juice. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste. If you have time, chill all your ingredients beforehand for an extra refreshing drink. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less cranberry juice based on your preference. To give it an adult twist, consider adding a splash of rum or sparkling wine for those who wish to include some alcohol in their drink.
Variations
While the base recipe is fantastic, there are a few variations you might enjoy. You could try adding pomegranate juice for an extra punch of flavor and color. If you like spices, experiment with adding star anise or nutmeg for a different aromatic experience. Using sparkling water instead of ginger ale could provide a lighter feel to the drink while keeping it refreshing. You can also switch up the fruits by including slices of apple or pomegranate seeds.
FAQ
Can I make this mocktail in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the drink in advance, but avoid adding the ginger ale until you’re ready to serve for maximum fizz.
Is this mocktail suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This mocktail is perfect for kids and anyone looking to enjoy a festive drink without alcohol.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries will work just fine. They can serve as ice and will add flavor as they thaw.
Enjoy making this Thanksgiving Mocktail Recipe, and have a wonderful holiday with family and friends!
Equipment
- pitcher
- mixing spoon
- serving glasses
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup ginger ale
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine the apple cider, cranberry juice, and ginger ale.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries.
- Serve over ice and enjoy!
