Thanksgiving Fruit Cider Punch

This sparkling Thanksgiving punch brings color and a little warm spice to any holiday gathering The first time I made this punch was for a family potluck and I still remember how everyone gathered around the punch bowl looking for seconds The fresh fruit slices float beautifully on top and the cinnamon sticks give it a cozy touch no one can resist

I first made a version of this punch last Thanksgiving and now it has become my go to drink for fall parties It is one of those recipes everyone requests whenever I host

Ingredients

• Apple cider: Use fresh pressed for best flavor if possible Check for a cloudy and unfiltered cider this often means richer taste
• Cranberry juice: Opt for 100 percent juice not cocktail for tartness and vibrant ruby color If you like a punch that is less sweet this is the way to go
• Orange juice: Use pulp free for a smooth pour and check that it is not from concentrate if you want the freshest flavor
• Fireball whiskey: This brings a gentle cinnamon heat Choose a bottle with a distinct cinnamon aroma
• Apricot brandy: or substitute with apple ginger or blackberry brandy for different twists Apricot lifts the fruit notes but apple is classic for fall
• Lemon lime soda: Adds sparkle and a bright citrus finish Club soda is a good swap if you want it less sweet
• Ice: Chilled ice keeps flavors crisp and punch frosty
• Apple slices orange slices cranberries cinnamon sticks: These garnishes make each glass look festive and inviting Choose firm fruit and whole cinnamon sticks for best presentation

Instructions

Mix the Base:

In a large pitcher or punch bowl pour in the apple cider cranberry juice and orange juice Add in Fireball whiskey and your choice of brandy Stir thoroughly to blend all the flavors together make sure there are no separate layers

Chill and Meld:

Cover the pitcher or punch bowl and let it chill in your refrigerator for at least four hours or overnight This step lets all the flavors marry together giving a fuller more rounded taste to the punch

Soda Splash:

Just before you are ready to serve pour in the lemon lime soda This gives the punch a lively fizz and balances the sweetness Taste and decide if you want to use less or more soda for your preferred level of sweetness

Finish with Ice and Garnish:

Right before your guests arrive add plenty of ice to the bowl or pitcher Float apple slices orange slices fresh cranberries and cinnamon sticks on top for an inviting display These garnishes are not just pretty they infuse the punch as it sits

Serve:

Ladle the punch into glasses making sure each cup gets some sliced fruit and a cinnamon stick Serve immediately for best fizz and freshness

The cinnamon sticks have always been my favorite part They lend the punch subtle warmth as they sit and once the glasses are empty everyone uses them as a little stir stick When I made this for my first Thanksgiving with friends we talked for hours around the empty bowl garnishes and all

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Thanksgiving punch actually improves as it sits so do not be afraid to prepare the base liquid a day before your party Just wait to add soda and ice until the last minute to keep things bubbly and cold If you have leftovers pour the punch strained of fruit into a sealed jar and refrigerate for up to two days

Ingredient Swaps

If you need a nonalcoholic version simply leave out the whiskey and brandy and bump up the apple cider or splash in sparkling apple or grape juice Club soda is also a lighter alternative to the lemon lime option If fresh apple cider is out of season try high quality apple juice

How to Serve for a Crowd

Use a clear glass punch bowl to show off the layered fruit and colors Have a ladle handy so guests get both punch and garnish with each serving Place extra garnishes and cinnamon sticks nearby for guests to refresh their cups

Seasonal Twist Ideas

Try swapping the cranberry juice for pomegranate juice for a rich deeper flavor Ginger beer can substitute for lemon lime soda if you want a spicy note Toss in a few star anise pods for extra warm spice if you love a bolder cinnamon flavor

Success Stories

Last year my cousin was skeptical about a punch with both whiskey and brandy but after the first sip he claimed it was the best drink at Thanksgiving The kids had their own pitcher without spirits decorated with just as many fruit slices and everyone went home happy

Freezer Prep Tips

You can mix the juice base ahead and freeze in plastic safe pitchers or bags Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add soda ice and garnishes before your guests arrive This is how I prep when I want to cut down on stress on the big day

Make a batch ahead and enjoy the party stress free Your guests will love the festive flavors and beautiful presentation

Recipe FAQs

→ What juices create the flavor base?

Apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice blend together for a tangy, fruit-forward foundation.

→ Can the punch be made ahead of time?

Yes, it's best chilled for at least 4 hours or overnight, so the flavors meld beautifully.

→ What spirits are used?

Fireball whiskey brings warm cinnamon notes, and apricot brandy adds sweetness and depth.

→ How is the punch garnished?

Fresh apple and orange slices, cranberries, and cinnamon sticks elevate the festive appeal and aroma.

→ Can it be made less sweet?

Substitute lemon-lime soda with club soda to reduce sweetness, keeping the punch balanced.

→ Is this suitable for a crowd?

Absolutely—it's designed for sharing, and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.