Thanksgiving Cider Punch
Thanksgiving Cider Punch is a festive and refreshing holiday drink bursting with warm spices, crisp apple flavors, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for gatherings, this easy-to-make punch can be served alcoholic or non-alcoholic and is sure to be the highlight of your Thanksgiving celebration.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh apple cider, chilled
- 1 cup fresh orange juice, chilled
Spices
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
Fizzy Element
- 2 cups ginger ale or sparkling water, chilled
Garnishes
- Thin slices of apples
- Thin slices of oranges
- Fresh cranberries (optional)
Optional Spirits
- 1 to 2 cups bourbon or rum (optional, adjust to taste)
- Prepare the Base: Pour 4 cups of fresh, chilled apple cider into a large punch bowl or pitcher to form the foundation of the punch.
- Add Citrus and Spices: Stir in 1 cup of fresh orange juice, then add 3 cinnamon sticks and 6 whole cloves. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to infuse the warm, signature flavors of Thanksgiving.
- Mix in the Fizz: Just before serving, gently stir in 2 cups of chilled ginger ale or sparkling water to add a refreshing sparkle that balances sweetness and spice.
- Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Float thin slices of apples and oranges, along with fresh cranberries if desired, on top of the punch for vibrant color and complementary flavors.
- Add Alcohol (Optional): For an adult version, stir in 1 to 2 cups of bourbon or rum, adjusting the amount to your preference.
Notes
- Chill all ingredients beforehand to keep the punch cold longer without dilution.
- Use whole cinnamon sticks and cloves for cleaner, more aromatic flavors.
- Allow the cider and spices to marinate for 10–15 minutes to deepen flavor before adding carbonation.
- Add fresh fruit garnishes just before serving to maintain their crispness and vibrant appearance.
- Taste the punch before adding fizz or alcohol; adjust sweetness with maple syrup or honey if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving punch, apple cider punch, holiday drink, festive punch, non-alcoholic punch, spiced cider punch