Thanksgiving Punch Mocktail
A cozy, colorful drink filled with apple cider, cranberry juice, and citrus flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the punch
- 2 cups fresh apple cider (unsweetened if possible)
- 2 cups cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 1 cup sparkling water or ginger ale
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick
- Ice cubes
- Orange slices, cranberries, and rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Pour apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, and lemon juice into a large pitcher or punch bowl. Stir well to mix.
- Stir in maple syrup or honey if you prefer a lightly sweet flavor.
- Sprinkle in ground cinnamon or drop in a cinnamon stick, stirring gently to infuse warmth into the punch.
- Just before serving, pour in sparkling water or ginger ale to give the punch a refreshing fizz.
- Fill glasses with ice, ladle in the punch, and garnish with orange slices, cranberries, and rosemary sprigs for a festive finishing touch.
Notes
Make ahead: Prepare the juice base in advance and refrigerate it. Add sparkling water right before serving to keep the fizz fresh. Flavor variation: Add a splash of pomegranate juice or a few apple slices for more depth and color. Kid-friendly idea: Use sweetened cranberry juice and extra orange slices for a naturally sweeter version. Beautiful presentation: Serve the punch in a clear glass bowl with floating fruit and herbs for an eye-catching centerpiece.