Thanksgiving Margarita Mocktail — A Festive Non-Alcoholic Fall Drink

Adam

Thanksgiving Margarita Mocktail — A Festive Non-Alcoholic Fall Drink

This Thanksgiving Margarita Mocktail is everything you love about fall in one sparkling glass — sweet pears, crisp apple cider, a splash of citrus, and a warm hint of cinnamon. It delivers the cozy flavors of the season without a drop of alcohol, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Inspired by the traditional margarita, this version swaps out the tequila and liqueur for pure fruit juices and a touch of tangy lime. The result is a refreshing, golden-hued mocktail that feels sophisticated, festive, and totally guilt-free. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast, a Friendsgiving brunch, or simply want something elegant to sip by the fire, this non-alcoholic pear and apple cider margarita will quickly become a fall favorite.

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Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings: 1 mocktail

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

🍐 Main Ingredients

2 oz pear juice fresh or bottled
2 oz 100% apple cider not apple juice
1 oz fresh lime juice or simple syrup depending on your taste preference

🌿 Spices & Seasoning

1 cinnamon stick
1 small pinch of salt

❄️ Chilled Element

Ice cubes for shaking and serving

🍊 Optional Garnishes

Cinnamon-sugar rim
Orange slices or pear wedges
Star anise or mint sprigs for decoration

Equipment

Cocktail shaker or large mason jar with lid
Citrus juicer
Measuring jigger or small cup
Small plate (for the salted rim)
Spoon or stirrer
Strainer
Margarita or rocks glasses

Method

Step 1 – Prepare the Glass

Run a lime wedge around the rim of your margarita glass. Dip the rim into a shallow plate of cinnamon and salt for a festive touch. Set aside.

Step 2 – Mix the Base

In a cocktail shaker (or mason jar), combine pear juice, apple cider, and lime juice or simple syrup. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Step 3 – Add Ice and Shake

Fill the shaker with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to chill the mixture and blend the flavors together.

Step 4 – Strain and Pour

Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.

Step 5 – Garnish

Add a cinnamon stick for stirring, and garnish with an orange slice or pear wedge. For extra flair, float a star anise on top.

Step 6 – Serve Immediately

Serve cold and enjoy the refreshing balance of sweet, spiced, and citrusy notes.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftover mixture (without ice) for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before serving.

Freezer: Pour into ice cube trays to make mocktail cubes that chill future drinks without dilution.

Reheating: Not recommended — best served chilled or over ice.

🥄 Variations

Sparkling Version: Top with sparkling water or ginger ale for fizz.

Cinnamon-Maple Twist: Replace simple syrup with maple syrup and add a dash of ground cinnamon.

Cranberry Margarita: Swap half the pear juice with cranberry juice for a tangy red hue.

Pumpkin Spice Margarita: Stir in a pinch of pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a cozy fall twist.

Frozen Style: Blend all ingredients with crushed ice for a slushy, frosted treat.

Citrus Boost: Add a splash of orange juice for brighter flavor.

Herbal Finish: Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for aroma and elegance.

❓ 10 FAQs

1. Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes — mix everything except ice and sparkling water. Chill and shake before serving.

2. Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, but apple cider provides deeper, spiced flavor.

3. What can I use instead of lime juice?
Try lemon juice or a splash of orange juice for brightness.

4. How do I make it fizzy?
Top it with sparkling water or club soda just before serving.

5. Is this suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It’s naturally sweet and alcohol-free.

6. Can I make it sugar-free?
Skip the simple syrup and use unsweetened juices.

7. How can I make it look more festive?
Add fresh cranberries or cinnamon sticks as stirrers.

8. What kind of pear juice is best?
Fresh-pressed or 100% natural pear juice — avoid concentrates with added sugar.

9. Can I serve it warm?
Yes! Heat the mixture gently with cinnamon and serve as a warm pear cider mocktail.

10. How long does it stay bubbly?
If using sparkling water, serve immediately — bubbles fade after 15–20 minutes.

🏁 Conclusion

This Thanksgiving Margarita Mocktail delivers the spirit of the holidays without any alcohol — just pure, vibrant flavor. The pear and apple cider create a naturally sweet base, while lime adds the perfect tart balance, and cinnamon brings cozy fall warmth.

It’s festive, refreshing, and elegant — a drink that feels special enough for guests, yet simple enough for everyday celebration.
Raise your glass to family, flavor, and a Thanksgiving full of sparkle — no spirits required!