Thanksgiving Punch
This Thanksgiving Punch is a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining apple cider, spiced syrup, and sparkling fruit juices, it's elegantly garnished with fresh fruit slices, frozen cranberries, and cinnamon sticks. Prepare the base ahead of time and add the effervescent components just before serving for maximum fizz and flavor.
Equipment
- 1 Large Punch Bowl or Drink Dispenser Essential for serving a large batch of punch elegantly.
- 1 Liquid Measuring Cup For accurate measurement of cider and syrup.
- 1 Chef's knife For slicing fruit garnishes.
- 1 Cutting Board To safely prepare fruit.
- 1 Ladle For serving the punch.
Ingredients
Main
- 2 quarts apple cider
- 1 cup spiced syrup
- 2 cups frozen cranberries divided
- 1 apple sliced
- 1 orange sliced
- 2 12-ounce cans chilled sparkling blood orange juice
- 1 750-milliliter bottle chilled sparkling grape juice
- Garnish: frozen cranberries
- Garnish: cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Ensure all liquid ingredients are thoroughly chilled before beginning the preparation.
- Slice the apple and orange into thin rounds, reserving some for garnish.
- In a large punch bowl or drink dispenser, combine the apple cider and spiced syrup, stirring gently to mix.
- Add 1 cup of the frozen cranberries, along with most of the sliced apple and orange, to the punch bowl.
- Stir the mixture gently to incorporate the fruits.
- Refrigerate the punch base for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and to ensure it is very cold.
- Just before serving, remove the punch base from the refrigerator.
- Carefully pour in the chilled sparkling blood orange juice and chilled sparkling grape juice into the punch bowl.
- Stir very gently with a ladle to combine, being careful not to agitate the sparkling juices too much to preserve carbonation.
- Garnish the punch with the remaining 1 cup of frozen cranberries and cinnamon sticks before serving immediately.
Notes
Ensure all liquid ingredients, especially the sparkling juices, are thoroughly chilled before mixing to maintain the punch's refreshing temperature and carbonation. The frozen cranberries are not just a garnish; they act as natural ice cubes that won't dilute your punch as they slowly thaw, adding both visual appeal and a gentle tartness. For an enhanced flavor profile, consider infusing your spiced syrup with whole star anise or cloves for an extra layer of warmth. Always add carbonated beverages just before serving to preserve their fizz. Adjust sweetness to taste, especially if your spiced syrup is already quite sweet.