Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups high-quality apple cider (unsweetened)
- 2 cups cranberry juice (100% juice blend)
- 1 cup orange juice (pulp-free)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 4 whole cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 large orange, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 red apple, cored and thinly sliced
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Start by washing your fresh fruit thoroughly. Slice the orange into thin rounds and core the apple before slicing it into half-moons. If you are using a slow cooker, place the fruit slices at the bottom. For stovetop preparation, have a large stockpot ready. Measure out your apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice. If you prefer a less sweet punch, you can omit the brown sugar, as the fruit juices provide plenty of natural sweetness.
- Pour the apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice into your large pot. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise. Stir in the brown sugar if you are using it. Bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Do not let it reach a rolling boil, as this can clarify the cider and change the texture. Let the punch simmer for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This allows the spices to infuse deeply into the liquid and softens the fruit slices.
- Once the punch is fragrant and hot, turn the heat to the lowest setting to keep it warm. Use a ladle to pour the cider into heat-safe mugs or clear glass punch cups. Ensure each glass gets a slice of cooked orange or apple. Drop a few fresh cranberries into each mug for a pop of festive red color. Serve immediately while steaming. For an adult-only version, you can offer a side of bourbon or rum for guests to stir in themselves.
- Cook Time: 40 minutes