Spiced Cranberry Punch
This warm and festive spiced cranberry punch is the perfect holiday beverage. Made with cranberry juice, orange slices, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves, it's a cozy drink that can be served non-alcoholic or spiked for a grown-up twist. Ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or winter gatherings!
Equipment
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven (or slow cooker)
- Wooden spoon
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (optional)
- Ladle
- Punch bowl or heatproof container
- Glasses or mugs for serving
Ingredients
- Punch Base:
- 4 cups 100% cranberry juice unsweetened preferred
- 2 cups apple cider or orange juice
- 1 cup water
- 1 orange thinly sliced
- ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries optional for garnish
- Spices:
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise pods
- 1- inch piece fresh ginger sliced
- 5 allspice berries
- Sweetener:
- ¼ to ½ cup honey maple syrup, or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- Optional for alcoholic version:
- 1 cup dark rum apple brandy, or red wine (added after simmering)
- Garnish optional:
- Orange slices
- Cinnamon sticks
- Fresh cranberries
- Star anise
- Rosemary sprigs
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine cranberry juice, apple cider (or orange juice), and water. Add sliced orange.
- Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, ginger, and allspice berries.
- Stir in honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar. Start with ¼ cup and adjust later.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
- Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to infuse.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
- Remove from heat. If using alcohol, stir it in now.
- Optionally strain out the spices using a mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Pour into a punch bowl or serve directly from the pot. Garnish with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks.
- Serve warm or let cool and serve over ice for a chilled version.
Notes
For a fizzy twist, add ginger ale or sparkling water just before serving.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
For a sugar-free version, use stevia or monk fruit sweetener and unsweetened juices.
Easily doubled or tripled for parties.