This Fall Punch is the ultimate festive drink, packed with crisp apple cider, tart cranberry juice, and warm spices. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, Thanksgiving gathering, or cozy autumn get-together, this punch is the perfect way to bring in the flavors of the season. It’s easy to make, can be served with or without alcohol, and is sure to be a hit with everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive & flavorful – A delicious blend of apple, cranberry, and fall spices.
- Great for parties – A big-batch drink that’s easy to serve.
- Non-alcoholic or spiked – Perfect for all guests, with optional booze add-ins.
- Quick & easy – Just mix, chill, and serve!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Apple cider
- Cranberry juice (100% juice, not cocktail)
- Orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- Ginger ale or sparkling water
- Cinnamon sticks
- Whole cloves
- Star anise (optional)
- Apples, sliced
- Oranges, sliced
- Cranberries (fresh or frozen, for garnish)
- Ice
Optional Alcohol Add-Ins:
- Bourbon
- Spiced rum
- Apple vodka
- Champagne (for a bubbly version)
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher or punch bowl, mix apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice.
- Add Spices & Fruit: Stir in cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sliced apples, oranges, and cranberries.
- Chill: Let the punch sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve: Just before serving, add ginger ale (or sparkling water) and ice. Stir gently and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 10-12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Fall Punch: Add a splash of cinnamon whiskey (like Fireball) for a warming kick.
- Mulled Fall Punch: Warm it on the stovetop instead of serving cold.
- Caramel Apple Punch: Stir in caramel syrup for a sweeter version.
- Pumpkin Punch: Add a touch of pumpkin spice for a unique fall twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days (without the ginger ale added).
- Freezing: Freeze in ice cube trays and add to drinks for a fun, flavored ice.
- Reheating: If serving warm, heat gently on the stove over low heat.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything except the ginger ale and ice, then add those just before serving.
Can I serve this warm?
Absolutely! Heat it on the stove for a cozy fall drink.
What’s the best alcohol to add?
Bourbon, spiced rum, or apple vodka all pair wonderfully.
Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes! Use unsweetened juices and swap ginger ale for sparkling water.
How do I keep the punch cold without watering it down?
Freeze apple cider into ice cubes and use those instead of regular ice.
Can I use sparkling cider instead of apple cider?
Yes! It adds a nice bubbly effect to the punch.
How can I make this extra festive?
Garnish with cinnamon-sugar-rimmed glasses or serve in hollowed-out apples.
Can I add other fruits?
Pomegranate seeds, pears, or lemon slices make great additions.
What’s a kid-friendly version of this punch?
Just leave out the alcohol and stick with juices and ginger ale.
Can I double this recipe for a big party?
Yes! Just scale up the ingredients and use a large punch bowl.
Conclusion
The BEST Fall Punch Recipe is a must-have for all your autumn gatherings! With its blend of apple cider, cranberry juice, and warm spices, this drink captures the cozy flavors of fall in every sip. Whether served chilled or warm, with or without alcohol, it’s the perfect seasonal beverage to share with family and friends. Try different variations, get creative with garnishes, and enjoy a refreshing, festive punch this fall!
PrintThe BEST Fall Punch Recipe
This Fall Punch is a delicious mix of apple cider, cranberry juice, citrus, and warm spices. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving, or cozy nights by the fire. Serve it chilled or warm, and add a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult-friendly version!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Drink, Punch
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups cranberry juice (100% juice, not cocktail)
- 2 cups orange juice (fresh or store-bought)
- 1 cup ginger ale (or sparkling water for less sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or 2 cinnamon sticks)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon allspice (optional)
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- ½ cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
- 2–3 star anise (optional, for extra spice)
- Ice, for serving
Optional Alcohol Add-Ins
- 1 ½ cups bourbon, rum, or spiced whiskey
- 1 cup prosecco or champagne (for a bubbly kick)
Instructions
-
Mix the punch:
- In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, and ginger ale.
- Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice until well mixed.
-
Add fruit & chill:
- Stir in apple slices, orange slices, and fresh cranberries.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
-
Serve & enjoy:
- Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over.
- Garnish with extra fruit slices, a cinnamon stick, or a star anise.
-
Make it warm (optional):
- Heat the punch in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours or on the stovetop over medium heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve warm in mugs with cinnamon sticks.
Notes
- Make it Spicy: Add a splash of ginger beer for a stronger kick.
- More Fall Flavor: Add a dash of vanilla extract or apple pie spice.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: Replace ginger ale with club soda for a lighter drink.
- Big Batch: Easily doubles for large gatherings!