Thanksgiving Cranberry Vodka Punch

Thanksgiving is one of those rare times when you get to gather your favorite people around the table, share stories, and enjoy plenty of delicious food. And while the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie usually steal the spotlight, the drinks deserve a little attention too—especially when it comes to festive, fruity cocktails. That’s where this cranberry vodka punch comes in. It’s bright, refreshing, and has just the right amount of kick to keep everyone in high spirits throughout the holiday.

This Thanksgiving cocktail is perfect for those who love a balance of sweet and tart flavors. The cranberries bring a vibrant pop of color and a slightly tangy note, while the vodka adds warmth without overpowering the drink. You can make it in a big batch, which makes it ideal for serving at a family gathering or a Friendsgiving celebration. It’s one of those drinks that looks as beautiful as it tastes, and trust me, it disappears fast.

If you’re planning your holiday menu and want to add a show-stopping beverage, this cranberry punch should be on your list. It’s not only festive for Thanksgiving, but it also works beautifully as a cranberry Christmas punch if you’re looking ahead to the next holiday season. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional bartender to whip it up. With a few simple ingredients, you can create an alcoholic cranberry drink that feels special and celebratory.

I’ve tried a lot of Thanksgiving punch recipes over the years, and this one quickly became a favorite. It’s easy to adjust based on your crowd—if you want it lighter, you can add sparkling water or soda, and if you like it stronger, just a touch more vodka does the trick. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want a festive treat for yourself and a few friends, this cranberry vodka punch hits all the right notes: fruity, vibrant, and downright irresistible.

Why You’ll Love It

• Festive and Colorful: The deep red of the cranberries makes this punch instantly feel holiday-ready. It’s the kind of drink that looks beautiful in a punch bowl and will have your table looking extra inviting.
• Easy to Make in Large Batches: Hosting a Thanksgiving crowd? No problem. This cranberry vodka punch can be made ahead of time and scaled up, so you’re not stuck mixing cocktails all night.
• Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart: The tartness of the cranberry pairs perfectly with a hint of sweetness, making it refreshing without being overly sugary. It’s a flavor combination that pleases both wine and cocktail lovers.
• Versatile for Any Holiday Gathering: While it’s a standout Thanksgiving cocktail, it’s just as perfect as a cranberry Christmas punch. Swap a few ingredients and you’ve got a festive drink for any winter celebration.
• Fun for All Ages (If You Skip the Vodka): Want to include everyone at the table? You can easily make a non-alcoholic version by leaving out the vodka—still delicious, just a little more family-friendly.

Ingredient List

For the Punch

• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1 cup vodka
• 1/4 cup triple sec (optional, for a citrusy kick)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup sparkling water or club soda

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for a festive touch)

Ingredient Notes

• I always use fresh cranberries for garnish—it makes the punch look so festive and adds a subtle pop of flavor.
• Don’t skip the triple sec if you like a citrusy twist; it really elevates the punch.
• For a slightly sweeter punch, the simple syrup is key—you can always adjust it depending on how tart your cranberry juice is.
• Vodka quality matters! I usually use a smooth, clean vodka; it blends perfectly without overpowering the fruit flavors.
• Adding sparkling water at the end keeps the punch light and bubbly. Trust me, it makes a huge difference in texture.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large Punch Bowl: Essential for mixing and serving the cranberry vodka punch. I love the clear glass ones—they show off all those beautiful red cranberries.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise measurements, especially with the vodka and juices.
• Mixing Spoon or Ladle: To stir everything together and serve with ease. I always reach for a wooden ladle—it’s sturdy and classic.
• Citrus Juicer or Reamer: Makes squeezing fresh orange and lemon juice effortless. Fresh juice really brightens the punch.
• Ice Bucket or Tray: To keep extra ice on hand so the punch stays chilled without watering it down too fast.
• Optional: Strainer: Useful if you prefer a smoother punch without pulp or tiny cranberry bits.

Instructions

Step 1: Chill Your Ingredients

• Place your cranberry juice, orange juice, and pineapple juice in the fridge for at least 1–2 hours before mixing.
• Chill the vodka and triple sec as well. Cold ingredients help keep the punch refreshing without needing too much ice.
  Pro Tip: Cold juice keeps the punch from getting watered down too quickly once you add ice.

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Step 2: Prepare the Garnishes

• Slice the orange and lemon into thin rounds.
• Pick through fresh cranberries, discarding any soft ones.
• If using rosemary, rinse and pat dry the sprigs.
  Pro Tip: Gently press the citrus slices on the edge of the punch bowl for a festive presentation.

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Step 3: Mix the Base

• In a large punch bowl, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, vodka, and triple sec.
• Stir well with a ladle or large spoon until everything is evenly blended.
  Pro Tip: Taste as you go—if you like it sweeter, add simple syrup gradually.

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Step 4: Add Ice and Sparkle

• Just before serving, add ice cubes or an ice ring to the punch bowl.
• Pour in sparkling water or club soda for a light, fizzy touch.
  Pro Tip: Don’t add ice too early or it will dilute the punch; add it right before guests arrive.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Float the fresh cranberries, citrus slices, and rosemary sprigs on top.
• Give the punch a gentle stir so the garnishes are evenly distributed.
• Ladle into glasses, making sure each serving gets a few cranberries and a slice of citrus for the festive look.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use freshly squeezed juice whenever possible—it makes the cranberry vodka punch taste brighter and more vibrant than store-bought juice.
• Chill everything ahead of time so your punch stays icy cold without being watered down by too much ice.
• Stir gently after adding sparkling water to keep the bubbles intact.
• Add extra cranberries and citrus slices for a visually stunning presentation—people will drink with their eyes first!
• If you’re hosting a big crowd, consider making an ice ring with cranberries inside—it keeps the punch cold and looks gorgeous floating in the bowl.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Vodka: Can swap with gin or white rum for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Triple sec: Use orange liqueur like Cointreau, or skip entirely if you prefer a milder punch.
• Cranberry juice: Try a blend of cranberry and pomegranate juice for a deeper flavor.
• Simple syrup: Substitute with honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetness.
• Sparkling water: Swap with lemon-lime soda or ginger ale for extra sweetness and fizz.
• Non-alcoholic version: Leave out the vodka and triple sec, and add extra sparkling water or juice for a family-friendly cranberry punch.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this cranberry vodka punch in festive mason jars with a straw—it makes each glass feel extra special and perfect for mingling at Thanksgiving.
• Pair it with a charcuterie board filled with cheeses, crackers, and cured meats—the tart punch balances the rich, savory flavors beautifully.
• Serve it alongside thanksgiving desserts, like pumpkin pie or pecan bars—it adds a refreshing fruity contrast to sweet, spiced treats.
• For a cozy gathering, pour the punch into stemmed glasses and float a rosemary sprig and cranberries in each—it looks elegant and smells amazing.
• Bring it to a Friendsgiving potluck in a clear pitcher with plenty of ice and garnish—it always disappears fast, and everyone asks for the recipe!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Make-ahead: Prepare the punch base (juices and vodka) up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge.
• Keep cold: Add ice and sparkling water just before serving to prevent dilution.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover punch in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Do not heat: This is best served cold—warming it will change the flavor and reduce the refreshing fizz.
• Garnish fresh: Always add cranberries, citrus slices, and rosemary right before serving for the best presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this punch non-alcoholic?

Absolutely! Simply skip the vodka and triple sec, and add extra cranberry or sparkling water. It’s still festive and flavorful for everyone to enjoy.

How far in advance can I prepare the punch?

You can mix the juice and vodka base up to 24 hours ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Add ice and sparkling water right before serving.

Can I use frozen cranberries for garnish?

Yes, frozen cranberries work fine, but fresh ones look more vibrant. If you use frozen, rinse them briefly to remove any frost for a prettier presentation.

What if I like my punch sweeter?

Add simple syrup a little at a time, tasting as you go. Honey or agave syrup also works as a natural alternative.

Can I make this punch in a slow cooker or large dispenser?

Definitely! A large beverage dispenser works perfectly. Avoid heating it—this punch is meant to be served cold.

Can I make it fizzy in advance?

It’s best to add sparkling water right before serving so the bubbles stay lively and refreshing.

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Did you try this cranberry vodka punch? Let me know in the comments how it turned out—I’d love to hear your tips and see your festive garnishes!