Thanksgiving Punch
This Thanksgiving punch recipe is perfect whether you're hosting a cozy dinner with close family or a full-on holiday bash.
Equipment
- Large punch bowl or drink dispenser
- Long-handled spoon or ladle
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Citrus juicer (manual or electric)
- Measuring cup
- Ice cube trays or a big ice mold
Ingredients
For the Punch
- 4 cups apple cider
- 3 cups cranberry juice 100% juice, not cocktail
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 cups ginger ale add just before serving
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- 1 apple thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- Ice for serving
Optional (For an Alcoholic Version)
- 1 to 1½ cups spiced rum or bourbon adjust to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Fruit
- Wash the apple and orange thoroughly, then slice them into thin rounds.
- If using fresh cranberries, give them a quick rinse and set aside.
- Pro Tip: Slice the fruit right before assembling the punch to keep everything looking fresh and crisp, especially if you’re making it ahead.
Step 2: Mix the Juices
- In a large punch bowl or drink dispenser, pour in the apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Stir gently with a long-handled spoon until everything is well combined.
- Pro Tip: Taste at this stage and adjust the tartness or sweetness. You can add a little honey or maple syrup if it needs more sweetness.
Step 3: Add the Fruit
- Drop in the orange and apple slices, then toss in the cranberries.
- Stir gently to distribute the fruit evenly—it adds flavor and makes the punch look stunning.
Step 4: Chill or Make Ahead
- Cover the punch and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours if making in advance.
- This allows the flavors to meld and the fruit to infuse into the juice.
- Pro Tip: If making ahead, wait to add the ginger ale and ice until just before serving to keep things bubbly and fresh.
Step 5: Add Fizz and Serve
- Right before serving, pour in the ginger ale and give the punch one final gentle stir.
- Add ice cubes (or a big ice ring) to the punch bowl to keep it cold.
- Ladle into glasses and garnish with extra fruit or even a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
Notes
Estimated Nutritional Value (Per Serving, approx. 8 oz / 1 cup)
- Calories: 90–120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 20–22g
- Vitamin C: 45–60% Daily Value
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fiber: <1g (if you include fruit pieces in the glass)