Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups high-quality apple cider (chilled)
- 4 cups cranberry juice cocktail (chilled)
- 2 liters ginger ale or sparkling apple juice (chilled)
- 2 oranges, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 4–5 cinnamon sticks
- Ice cubes or a decorative ice ring
- Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Find a large punch bowl or a high-capacity drink dispenser. Pour the chilled apple cider and the cranberry juice cocktail into the container. Use a long-handled spoon to stir them together until the colors blend into a beautiful, deep autumn red. Ensure your juices are thoroughly chilled before starting to keep the drink refreshing.
- Just before your guests arrive, slowly pour in the ginger ale or sparkling apple juice. Pouring slowly helps preserve the carbonation so the punch stays bubbly and bright throughout the meal. Give it one very gentle stir to incorporate the bubbles without flattening them. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can substitute half of the ginger ale with plain sparkling water.
- Gently drop the orange slices and fresh cranberries onto the surface of the punch. They will float beautifully, creating a festive look. Add the cinnamon sticks for a hint of spice and woody aroma. If you are using a punch bowl, add ice just before serving. Ladle the punch into glasses, making sure each guest gets a bit of the fruit garnish for that perfect holiday touch.
- Cook Time: 10 minutes