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Cozy Apple Cider Punch

A delightful and easy-to-make non-alcoholic punch perfect for fall gatherings, featuring apple cider, citrus, and warming spices.

Ingredients

Scale

Main ingredients

  • 5 cups apple cider (Use a good quality, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor.)
  • 2 cups lemonade (This adds a lovely brightness and a little tang to balance the sweetness.)
  • 2 cups orange juice (Another layer of fruity goodness that complements the apple perfectly.)
  • 0.25 cup maple syrup or simple syrup (optional. If your cider is sweet enough, you might not need it. Maple syrup adds a lovely depth, though.)
  • 4 apples (cored and sliced. Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp – any crisp apple you love will work beautifully.)
  • 1 orange (sliced with rind on. The rind adds such a wonderful aromatic oil! Make sure to wash it well.)
  • 5 sticks cinnamon sticks (These aren’t just for looks; they infuse that classic cozy spice.)
  • 5 sprigs rosemary sprigs (Rosemary adds an unexpected, sophisticated herby note that’s divine with apple.)
  • 5 cups sparkling water (This gives the punch a delightful effervescence. You can use club soda or even ginger ale if you prefer.)
  • 0 ice (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large punch bowl or a nice big pitcher, pour in the apple cider, lemonade, and orange juice. If you’re adding a touch of sweetness, stir in your maple syrup or simple syrup now.
  2. Now for the fragrant additions! Toss in your sliced apples, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and those beautiful rosemary sprigs. Give it a gentle stir.
  3. This is the crucial step for maximum flavor! Cover your punch bowl or pitcher and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows all those wonderful spices and fruits to infuse their magic into the liquids. I often let mine chill for a few hours if I have the time – the longer, the better the flavor!
  4. Right before you’re ready to serve, gently stir in the sparkling water. You want to add this last so you keep all those lovely bubbles.
  5. Ladle the punch into glasses filled with ice. Don’t forget to scoop out some of the delicious fruit and cinnamon sticks to garnish each glass!

Notes

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! For grown-ups, add a splash of bourbon, spiced rum, or apple brandy. Swap citrus, add star anise or cloves, or include pear slices or cranberries. If you don’t have sparkling water, ginger ale or lemon-lime soda can be used, but be mindful of added sweetness.