5 Great Pomegranate Drinks to Make at Home

[Photo: J. Kenji Lopez-Alt]

Pomegranate is one of the best cocktail ingredients we know, offering tartness and tang to balance a drink's sweetness, deep flavor that stands up to booze, and even a little tannic texture to make your drink more interesting. Here are five of our favorite pomegranate cocktail recipes—they're just right for Thanksgiving or any autumn occasion.

Pomegranate Bourbon Cocktail

[Photo: Kelly Carámbula]

This simple drink, made with pomegranate juice and tangy pomegranate molasses, works wonderfully with bourbon and the spice of Angostura bitters. You can use your favorite bottling or any decent mixing bourbon for good results. The cocktail is brightened with a touch of fresh orange juice, for a combination that's not too far off from our favorite orange-and-cranberry Thanksgiving relish.

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Tangerine Ginger Margarita

[Photo: Jessica Leibowitz]

As cold-weather doldrums creep in, we're eager for a little escape, and this tequila drink is just the ticket. Made with spicy fresh ginger and sweet tangerines along with tart pomegranate and lime, this cocktail may not be your traditional Thanksgiving sipper, but we're fine with that.

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Pomegranate Americano

[Photo: Kevin Liu]

Those who don't drink alcohol shouldn't miss out during cocktail hour—this pomegranate-based concoction is totally tasty without the booze. Pomegranate juice stands in the place of sweet vermouth and Campari, offering acidity, sweetness, and astringency. If a tiny bit of alcohol is ok, include a few drops of bitters for added complex flavor.

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Pom Pomme

[Photo: Autumn Giles]

Here's a way to punch up any hard cider you have around this fall: a little rosy pomegranate juice, a bit of ginger liqueur for spice and sweetness, and apple brandy for an added kick. Serve it in a cocktail glass—or a Champagne flute if you want to keep things extra fizzy.

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Jefferson's Crimson

[Photo: Kelly Carámbula]

Rich bourbon and Southern Comfort are paired with pomegranate juice and pomegranate molasses in this autumnal drink from Todd Thrasher of Washington DC's Restaurant Eve and PX Restaurant. The cocktail gets a squeeze of fresh lemon and is then served tall.

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