Table of Contents: Thanksgiving Cider Punch
Thanksgiving Cider Punch
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving. Elevate your holiday menu with this delightful THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH, a warm-spiced, crowd-pleasing drink that’s perfect for festive occasions. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a lively holiday party, this HOLIDAY CIDER PUNCH RECIPE combines the comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and apple butter with a bubbly twist of champagne and ginger beer. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Ready to raise a toast to the season? Let’s dive in!
Introduction: THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH
Thanksgiving is a time to cherish tradition, savor comforting flavors, and create lasting memories with family and friends. This THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH recipe embodies the essence of the holiday, blending the rich, spiced notes of apple cider and cinnamon with the effervescence of champagne and ginger beer. It’s a drink that’s both festive and familiar, making it a standout addition to your holiday table.
What makes this recipe special is its versatility. It’s perfect for adults who enjoy a lightly spiked punch, but it can easily be made non-alcoholic for younger guests or those who prefer it. The addition of apple butter adds a creamy, velvety texture, while orange bitters introduce a subtle citrusy depth. Garnished with fresh apple slices and star anise, this FESTIVE PUNCH RECIPE is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast, a Friendsgiving gathering, or even a cozy winter evening with loved ones, this punch is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities and less time fussing over drinks.
Alternate Names & Variations
This recipe can go by many names, depending on the occasion or your preference. You might hear it referred to as HOLIDAY CIDER PUNCH, SPIKED APPLE CIDER PUNCH, or even THANKSGIVING PUNCH BOWL. If you’re looking for variations, consider swapping the vodka for bourbon for a smokier flavor, or skip the alcohol entirely for a kid-friendly version. You can also experiment with different garnishes, such as cranberries or rosemary sprigs, to match your holiday theme.
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Ingredients: THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this festive drink:
- 8 cups apple cider
- 1 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup apple butter
- 4 dashes orange bitters
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 bottle (750 ml) champagne
- 2 bottles ginger beer
- 2 apples, sliced
CINNAMON SUGAR RIM:
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pomegranate or orange juice, for the rim
GARNISH:
- Star anise, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Cinnamon Sugar Rim: In a small bowl, mix coarse sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Dip the rim of your glasses in pomegranate or orange juice, then into the sugar mixture. Set aside.
Chef Tip: Use a shallow plate for easier dipping!
2. Combine the Base: In a large punch bowl, combine apple cider, vodka, apple butter, and orange bitters. Stir well until the apple butter is fully incorporated.
Chef Tip: If your apple butter is thick, warm it slightly before mixing.
3. Add the Bubbly: Just before serving, gently pour in the champagne and ginger beer. Stir lightly to combine.
Chef Tip: Use a wooden spoon to preserve the carbonation.
4. Garnish and Serve: Add cinnamon sticks, sliced apples, and star anise for a festive touch. Serve immediately in your prepared glasses.
Recipe Card Block
This THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH takes just 15 minutes to prepare and serves up to 10 guests. It’s a low-effort, high-reward recipe that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Each serving contains approximately 200 calories, making it a guilt-free way to indulge in festive flavors.
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
This recipe shines because it balances simplicity with sophistication. The apple cider and cinnamon evoke classic Thanksgiving flavors, while the champagne and ginger beer add a celebratory sparkle. The vodka and orange bitters elevate the drink without overwhelming it, making it a hit with both cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the vodka and swap the champagne for sparkling apple cider or ginger ale. You can also make this punch a day ahead—just add the bubbly ingredients right before serving to keep them fresh and fizzy.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
This punch is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the garnishes separate to maintain their texture. Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended due to the carbonated ingredients.
People Also Ask: THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH

What Ingredients Are in a Classic Thanksgiving Cider Punch?
A classic THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH typically includes apple cider, cinnamon, and a bubbly element like champagne or ginger beer. This recipe adds vodka, apple butter, and orange bitters for a unique twist.
Can You Make Cider Punch Ahead and Chill Overnight?
Yes! You can prepare the base mixture (cider, vodka, apple butter, and bitters) up to a day in advance. Add the bubbly ingredients just before serving to retain their fizz.
How Do You Make Spiked Cider Punch for Adults?
Spike your cider punch with vodka or bourbon for an adult-friendly version. Orange bitters also add a subtle depth of flavor without making the drink overly strong.
What Garnishes Look Best in Thanksgiving Cider Punch?
Fresh apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and star anise are festive and visually appealing garnishes. Cranberries or rosemary sprigs also work beautifully for a holiday-themed touch.
Conclusion: THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH
This THANKSGIVING CIDER PUNCH is the ultimate holiday drink—warm, spiced, and bursting with festive flavor. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any gathering. Give it a try this holiday season and watch it become a new tradition in your home. Don’t forget to share your results or ask questions in the comments below. Cheers to a joyful and delicious Thanksgiving!
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Thanksgiving Cider Punch
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A festive and refreshing Thanksgiving punch made with sparkling apple cider, citrus juice, and warm fall spices. Perfect for serving a crowd, with or without alcohol.
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup ginger ale or sparkling water
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- Ice, for serving
- Optional: 1 cup bourbon or spiced rum
Instructions
- In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine apple cider, orange juice, cranberry juice, and ginger ale (or sparkling water).
- Add orange slices, apple slices, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
- Stir well to combine and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Right before serving, add ice and stir again.
- If using alcohol, stir in bourbon or spiced rum just before serving.
- Serve in glasses with fruit garnish for a festive touch.
Notes
Make this punch ahead of time to let the flavors meld. Leave out the alcohol for a kid-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thanksgiving punch, cider punch, holiday drink, festive punch, non-alcoholic punch