Thanksgiving Punch
Thanksgiving Punch is a bright and festive drink perfect for gathering everyone around the table. It usually mixes tangy cranberry juice, sparkling soda, and a splash of citrus, giving you…
By Ava
•
•
Reading time: 6 min
Thanksgiving Punch is a bright and festive drink perfect for gathering everyone around the table. It usually mixes tangy cranberry juice, sparkling soda, and a splash of citrus, giving you a refreshing and bubbly taste that pairs wonderfully with all those rich holiday dishes. It’s colorful and fun, making it a great way to welcome guests and add some extra cheer to your meal.
I love making this punch because it’s so easy to whip up but feels like a special treat. Sometimes I toss in some fresh cranberries or orange slices to float on top—it just makes the whole bowl look extra pretty and inviting. It’s become a little tradition that always brings smiles, especially when kiddos and grown-ups alike grab a cup and enjoy that sweet-tart flavor together.
This punch also makes hosting easier since you don’t have to fuss over individual drinks. I usually set it out in a big glass bowl with a ladle, letting everyone help themselves throughout the meal. It’s a simple touch that makes the day feel even warmer and more joyful, and it leaves room for the real star of the show—the Thanksgiving feast of course.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry juice: This is the punch’s main flavor, offering a nice tartness. If you want less tart, try mixing in apple or grape juice. Make sure to use 100% juice for the best taste.
Orange juice: Adds bright citrus and sweetness. Freshly squeezed is ideal, but store-bought works fine too. For a twist, substitute with pineapple juice for extra tropical flavor.
Sparkling apple cider or ginger ale: This gives the punch its fizz. I like sparkling apple cider for a seasonal touch, but ginger ale adds a gentle spice. You can swap with club soda if you want it less sweet.
Fresh cranberries and sliced fruit: They decorate the punch and add subtle flavor. I love floating apple and orange slices—they look festive and add freshness. If you don’t have fresh cranberries, frozen ones will work well too.
Star anise & cinnamon sticks: These warm spices infuse great aroma and flavor. You can swap star anise with whole cloves if needed. Remove the spices after infusing to avoid bitterness.
How Do I Infuse Warm Spices Without Making the Punch Bitter?
Infusing spices like star anise and cinnamon adds a cozy flavor but can get bitter if left too long. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine cranberry and orange juice with whole star anise and cinnamon sticks in the bowl.
- Let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes—this is enough time for the spices to flavor the juice.
- Remove the spices before adding sparkling cider or ginger ale to keep the punch crisp and prevent any bitterness.
This simple step keeps the punch tasting fresh and balanced, with just the right hint of warm spice.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large punch bowl – perfect for mixing and serving big batches to your guests.
- Wooden or silicone spoon – helps you stir gently without scratching the bowl.
- Citrus slicer or sharp knife – makes it easy to slice apples and oranges thinly and evenly.
- Measuring cups – to get your juice amounts just right for consistent taste.
- Ice bucket or tray – handy to keep your punch chilled without watering it down too fast.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum for an adult-friendly holiday twist.
- Swap apple cider with sparkling pomegranate juice for a deeper fruity flavor.
- Mix in fresh rosemary sprigs or thyme for an herbal note that pairs well with the spices.
- Add a handful of frozen mixed berries instead of cranberries for a colorful, fun alternative.
How to Make Thanksgiving Punch?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups cranberry juice
- 2 cups orange juice
- 2 cups sparkling apple cider or ginger ale
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 4-5 star anise pods
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- Optional: 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (for additional sweetness)
- Ice cubes, as needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This punch takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 30 minutes chilling time to let the flavors mix well. You can prepare it ahead of time and just add ice and sparkling cider before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Juices and Spice Infusion:
Pour the cranberry juice and orange juice into a large punch bowl. Stir them together well. Add the star anise pods and cinnamon sticks to the juice mix. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can infuse.
2. Prepare to Serve:
Before serving, remove the star anise pods and cinnamon sticks from the juice mixture. Then gently stir in the sparkling apple cider or ginger ale to give your punch that fun, fizzy touch.
3. Add Fruit and Serve:
Float the thin apple and orange slices along with fresh cranberries on top of the punch. Add ice cubes as needed to keep it cool. If you like your punch a little sweeter, stir in some maple syrup or honey to taste. Serve right away, making sure each glass has some of the pretty fruit.
Can I Make Thanksgiving Punch Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the cranberry and orange juices with the spices up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Just add the sparkling cider or ginger ale, fruit slices, and ice right before serving to keep it fresh and fizzy.
What Can I Substitute for Sparkling Apple Cider?
If you don’t have sparkling apple cider, ginger ale or club soda are great alternatives. Ginger ale adds a touch of spice, while club soda keeps it light and bubbly without extra sweetness.
How Do I Keep the Punch from Getting Watery?
Use larger ice cubes or ice blocks to slow melting, or freeze some of the punch mixture in ice cube trays and use those in place of regular ice to avoid diluting the flavors.
Can I Make This Punch Alcoholic?
Absolutely! For an adult version, add a splash of bourbon, spiced rum, or vodka to taste. Add alcohol just before serving and adjust the sweetness accordingly.