Autumn Harvest Rum Punch
This rum punch combines the sweetness of apple cider with the warmth of spiced rum and a splash of citrus, creating a balanced and vibrant drink that feels like a celebration of the harvest season.
Equipment
- Large Punch Bowl or Pitcher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus Juicer
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
- Long Spoon or Ladle
- Optional: Cheesecloth or Spice Infuser
Ingredients
For the Punch
- 2 cups spiced rum
- 4 cups apple cider fresh or store-bought
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey optional, for extra sweetness
For Garnish
- 1 apple thinly sliced
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- A few whole cloves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Citrus Juices
- Roll the oranges and lemons on the counter with your palm to loosen the juices.
- Cut the oranges and lemons in half.
- Using a citrus juicer, extract the juice from each half until you have the measured amount.
- Strain the juice through a fine sieve to remove any seeds or pulp for a smooth punch base.
- Pro Tip: Straining your citrus juice makes the punch look cleaner and keeps the texture smooth—especially important if you’re serving it to guests.
Step 2: Combine the Liquid Ingredients
- In your large punch bowl or pitcher, pour in the spiced rum, apple cider, cranberry juice, fresh orange juice, and lemon juice.
- Add maple syrup or honey if you want a touch more sweetness.
- Stir everything together gently but thoroughly using a long spoon or ladle to blend the flavors evenly.
- Pro Tip: Stir slowly and steadily to combine without making the punch too frothy or cloudy.
Step 3: Add the Garnishes and Spices
- Thinly slice the apple and orange and add the slices directly into the punch.
- Toss in the fresh cranberries for a pop of color and a little tartness.
- Add the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves to infuse warm spice notes.
- Pro Tip: If you don’t want whole cloves floating around, wrap them in a small piece of cheesecloth or use a spice infuser before adding to the punch.
Step 4: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
- Cover the punch bowl or pitcher with plastic wrap or a lid.
- Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the spices and fruit.
- Pro Tip: For the best flavor, prepare the punch a few hours ahead or even the night before — the spices and fruit really get to know each other!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the punch over ice in your favorite glasses.
- Add a slice of fruit or a cinnamon stick to each glass for a festive touch.
- Sip slowly and enjoy the cozy, harvest-inspired flavors with your friends and family.
Notes
Estimated Nutritional Value (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 180–220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20–25g
- Sugar: 18–22g
- Alcohol Content: ~1.5–2 oz
- Vitamin C: Moderate
- Fat & Protein: 0g