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Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Thanksgiving Punch (Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic)

Close-up of a glass filled with sparkling red thanksgiving punch, garnished with fresh cranberries and an orange slice.
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Make this versatile Thanksgiving Punch featuring cranberry, orange, and apple cider. It is easy to prepare ahead for large groups and includes simple options for both adult cocktails and family-friendly mocktails.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups apple cider
  • 3 cups cranberry juice (100% juice preferred)
  • 2 cups orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • 1 cup orange slices for garnish
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 whole star anise
  • 2 liters ginger ale or club soda (chilled, for fizz)
  • For Alcoholic Version (Optional): 1.5 cups vodka or bourbon/whiskey
  • For Alcoholic Version (Optional): 1 bottle (750ml) chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine

Instructions

  1. Combine the apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, cinnamon stick, and star anise in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Stir well.
  2. If making the alcoholic version, stir in the vodka or whiskey now.
  3. Chill the base mixture for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the spices to infuse. Remove the cinnamon stick and star anise before serving if you prefer a milder spice flavor.
  4. Just before serving, add the chilled ginger ale or club soda for carbonation. If using Prosecco, gently fold it in now.
  5. Garnish the punch bowl with fresh orange slices and cranberries.
  6. Serve immediately over ice.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead option, prepare the juice base (Steps 1 and 2) up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated. Add the carbonated element (ginger ale/soda/Prosecco) only right before guests arrive to keep the punch fizzy.
  • To make this a stunning centerpiece, freeze some cranberries and orange slices in a large ice ring or mold to keep the punch cold without diluting the flavor.
  • If you want a spiced flavor in the non-alcoholic version, you can simmer the cider with the spices for 10 minutes, then cool completely before mixing with the juices.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumdrizzle.com/thanksgiving-punch-recipe-crowd-pleasing/