Description
This Thanksgiving Punch Mocktail is a refreshing, spiced, and family-friendly holiday drink. Made with apple cider, cranberry juice, citrus, and warming spices, it’s a festive non-alcoholic punch that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, Friendsgiving, or fall parties. Colorful, healthy, and easy to prepare, it’s a showstopper for all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups apple cider (unsweetened preferred)
- 2 cups cranberry juice (100% juice, no added sugar)
- 1 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed if possible)
- 2 cups sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
- 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise (optional)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- Rosemary sprigs or mint, for garnish
- Ice cubes, as needed
Instructions
- Prepare fruits & spices: Slice apples and oranges. Wash cranberries and rosemary. Warm apple cider with cinnamon sticks and star anise for 5–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
- Combine juices: In a punch bowl or pitcher, mix apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice. Stir well.
- Add sparkle & sweetness: Stir in sparkling water or soda just before serving. Add maple syrup or honey if desired.
- Garnish: Add sliced fruit, cranberries, and rosemary sprigs for a festive look.
- Serve: Add ice to glasses or bowl, ladle punch, and enjoy this refreshing Thanksgiving mocktail.
Notes
- Prepare juices and spices ahead, but add soda and fruit just before serving for best freshness.
- Use frozen fruit slices instead of ice cubes to keep the punch cold without dilution.
- Swap soda for sparkling water or kombucha for a lighter option.
- Serve in a clear pitcher or bowl to showcase seasonal colors and garnishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving Punch Mocktail, Non Alcoholic Holiday Drinks, Easy Thanksgiving Drinks, Festive Punch Recipes, Fall Mocktail