Description
This Warm Christmas Punch is a festive, cozy beverage perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with a blend of cranberry juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, and sweet apple cider, infused with fragrant spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, then lightly sweetened and optionally spiked with rum or whiskey. The punch is gently heated to meld flavors without boiling, creating a comforting drink ideal for winter celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
Juices and Liquids
- 1 cup cranberry juice (100% pure)
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cups apple cider (sweet)
- ½ cup rum or whiskey (optional)
Spices and Flavorings
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 4 slices fresh ginger
Sweetener
- ½ cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Combine Juices: In a large pot or slow cooker, combine cranberry juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, and apple cider. This provides the flavorful and fruity base for the punch.
- Add Spices: Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and fresh ginger slices to the liquid mixture to infuse warm and aromatic holiday spices.
- Sweeten the Punch: Stir in the brown sugar until it completely dissolves, balancing the tartness of the juices with gentle sweetness.
- Heat the Mixture: Heat the punch on medium-low for about 30 minutes, ensuring it warms through and the flavors meld nicely without bringing it to a boil, which keeps the fresh flavors intact.
- Serve Warm: Pour the warm punch into mugs and garnish with extra cinnamon sticks or orange slices if desired. Add rum or whiskey at serving time for an optional spirited version.
Notes
- Do not boil the punch to preserve the fresh and bright flavors of the juices.
- The alcoholic addition is optional; the punch is delicious on its own and family-friendly.
- For a spicier punch, increase the amount of fresh ginger or cloves.
- Keep the punch warm in a slow cooker if serving over a longer period.
- Garnishing with fresh cranberries or a cinnamon stick enhances presentation and aroma.
