Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table, whether with family or friends, sharing delicious food, laughter, and great drinks! This year, why not take your celebration up a notch with shareable cocktails that make hosting easier and more fun? Forget playing bartender all night—batch cocktails let you whip up large quantities ahead of time so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the company of your loved ones. Whether you're serving a crowd of close friends or your extended family, these crowd-pleasing drinks will keep everyone in good spirits!

Batch cocktails are perfect for gatherings because they make hosting a breeze. Instead of mixing individual drinks all night, you can prepare large quantities ahead of time, allowing guests to serve themselves while you relax and enjoy the celebration. It’s an easy, no-fuss way to ensure everyone’s glass stays full without the hassle. And let's not forget the presentation! A well-made batch cocktail displayed in a large pitcher or punch bowl becomes a stunning part of your spread.

Another reason we love batch cocktails at Angry Otter is their ability to showcase seasonal flavours. With ingredients like apples, cranberries, cinnamon, and other autumn-inspired additions, you can create drinks that taste great and capture the essence of fall. From warm spiced punches to crisp sangrias, these cocktails add a festive touch to your feast.

Recipes That Will Impress Your Guests

Spiced Apple Sangria

Perhaps the most classic batch cocktail to make, it is a crowd-pleaser that combines the essence of fall with the added flavours. View the original recipe here.

Ingredients

• 1 750 mL Bottle of White Wine (We recommend Kalala Estate’s Community White, an Angry Otter Exclusive)
• 1 ½ cup Apple Cider
• ½ cup Maple Syrup
• 1 cup oz Bourbon
• Optional: Apple Slices and Cinnamon Sticks

Directions

Mix all ingredients in a pitcher and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours to let the flavours from the cinnamon and apple slices mix in. Then, serve over ice.

Cranberry Gin Fizz

If cranberries are good enough to go on the turkey, it is good enough to find a way onto your table twice. View the original recipe here.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Gin
• 2 cups Cranberry Juice
• 1 cup Orange Juice
• ½ cup Lemon Juice
• ½ cup Simple Syrup
• Orange Bitters
• 1 L Sparkling Water
• Optional: Cranberries and Orange Slices

Directions

Add all ingredients into a pitcher or punch bowl filled with ice. Only add a few bitters, according to your preference. Stir until combined. Optionally, top with your garnish of choice.

Grilled Peach and Maple Smash

For those who appreciate a richer flavour, this Bourbon Smash is an excellent choice. Serve it in a punch bowl with garnishes, and watch it become the start of your table. View the original recipe here.

Ingredients

• 4 Grilled Peaches, halved and pitted
• 4 Sprigs of Thyme, plus extra for garnish
• 6 oz Maple Syrup
• 4 oz Lemon Juice
• 8 oz Orange Juice (We recommend Co-op Gold Orange Juice, available at your local Angry Otter Liquor)
• 12 oz Bourbon
• 24 oz Ginger Ale
• Optional: Peach slices and thyme sprigs for garnish

Directions

Add the grilled peach halves, thyme sprigs, maple syrup, lemon juice, and orange juice in a large punch bowl. Gently muddle the ingredients together to release the juice from the peaches and blend the flavours.

Add the Bourbon and stir well to combine with the muddled mixture. Fill the punch bowl with ice; just before serving, top it with ginger ale. Add peach slices and extra thyme sprigs on top for a beautiful presentation.Ladle the punch into glasses filled with ice, and enjoy!

Apple Cider Mule Mocktail Punch

Here’s a refreshing punch bowl version of the Apple Cider Mule Mocktail recipe that’s perfect for serving a crowd! View the original recipe here. 

Ingredients

• 8 cups Apple Cider
• 4 cups Ginger Beer (We recommend Co-op Gold PURE Ginger Beer recommended)
• 2 cups Tonic Water
• Caramel Drizzle
• 8 Cinnamon Sticks
• Optional: Apple slices for garnish

Directions

Fill a large punch bowl with ice. Pour in the apple cider, ginger beer, and tonic water. Stir gently to combine. Drizzle the caramel over the top of the mixture. Use a long spoon or ladle to stir with a cinnamon stick, ensuring the caramel is well incorporated.

Add the cinnamon sticks to the punch bowl for flavour and presentation. If desired, float apple slices on top for a lovely garnish.

Feel free to adjust the amount of caramel based on your preference for sweetness!

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s time to gather around the table and celebrate all the things we’re grateful for—great food, laughter, and fantastic drinks! With these shareable cocktail recipes, you’ll impress your guests and make hosting a breeze. Remember, whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, the right cocktails can elevate your gathering and create lasting memories.

We’d love to see how you’re celebrating this Thanksgiving! Share your favourite Thanksgiving sips and spreads with us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Tag us in your posts, and let’s spread the holiday cheer together! Cheers to good times and great company!