Apple Cider Punch

Apple Cider Punch is the perfect Fall drink for the holiday season because during this time of year the weather is transitioning. In Atlanta where I live Fall can be scorching hot or freezing cold. It's the perfect drink to make apple cider cocktails to go along with Thanksgiving dinner!

What is apple cider punch?

This delicious apple cider punch is a cold, fun drink that has basically been crossed between spiced fresh apple cider with the addition of ginger beer. The ginger beer adds spicy ginger flavor with tons of carbonation. My version is an easy punch with simple ingredients that makes for an incredibly refreshing beverage. This special drink is very similar to my hot apple cider except, this one has been simplified even more so that all of the flavors come together nicely.

Ingredients

• Cold Pressed Apple Juice-the main ingredient of this punch
• Warm Spices-like cinnamon, and ground cloves
• Fresh squeezed orange juice-adds a bit of rich orange flavor that is not overwhelming or overpowering
• Brown sugar-sweetens the drink and deepens the flavors
• Ginger beer- adds the fizzy element and makes the punch complete

What you need to make apple cider punch

A large pot for combining and simmering the ingredients. A sharp knife to cut the orange before juicing. Some sort of item to juice the orange whether it be a handheld citrus juicer, electric juicer or citrus squeezer. A cutting board to protect your counter surface. A large spoon for stirring. A pitcher to contain all of the liquids. Glassware for serving. *Optional- large punch bowl

How to make apple cider punch

Using a large pot, bring apple juice to a simmer before adding the cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, brown sugar, and orange juice. Simmer on medium-low heat for 15 minutes to allow all of the flavors to release and bind together.

Let this mixture cool completely before adding to a pitcher. Top with ginger beer and stir. Serve immediately. If you are enjoying this in a group setting, you can add the apple juice to a large punch bowl before adding the ginger beer. Alternatively, pour the apple cider into individual cups filled with ice before topping the glasses off with even amounts of ginger beer. 

Substitutions

Apple juice concentrate can be used in place of organic cold pressed apple juice-simply follow the instructions on the package and make sure the amount matches the same amount that the recipe calls for. 

Apple cider- use pre-made apple cider and forego making the homemade version yourself. Doing it this way would cut out the majority of the work however, this would change the recipe entirely. 

Ginger ale is a great substitute for ginger beer although, depending on the brand; the ginger flavor could be greatly muted or even bland

Store-bought orange juice-use ½ cup in place of two oranges a great alternative when you have it on hand and you're in a pinch!

Orange juice concentrate can also be used but keep in mind that this recipe calls for a small amount of orange juice-if you go this route you will have plenty left over for another beverage

How to garnish apple cider punch

A fun way to add some pizazz to this drink, especially if serving while entertaining, is to include some fun garnishes. I chose to adorn my single serving glasses with a rim of homemade caramel and turbinado. Alternatively, rim your glass with maple syrup or even a bit of honey. I added apple slices and cinnamon sticks to the glasses. You can make this super fun, particularly if using a punch bowl or large pitcher for a holiday party! Some additional ingredients you could add to make this super festive are star anise, orange slices, and whole cloves.

Variations

There are several ingredients that can be used for this drink recipe but keep in mind that the intended flavors could change significantly when modifying the recipe. The same quantities seen on the recipe card below can be used for any variation of ingredients. In addition to the orange juice, you can add the same amount of cranberry juice and/or pineapple juice!

Additionally, this delicious Fall punch recipe can be turned into an easy cocktail with the addition of your favorite alcohol. I think a nice vodka or spiced rum would be the perfect addition here.

Tips

This is a punch that needs to be enjoyed right away. Ginger beer will only keep for so long without going flat. 

If you make this recipe please rate and review it on the recipe card below. I would love for you to tag me on Instagram @belovedplate https://www.instagram.com/belovedplate/

MORE BEVERAGE RECIPES TO LOVE!

Spiced Mulled Wine

Homemade Orange Cream Soda

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