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Thanksgiving Punch

A festive fall punch with apple, cinnamon, and a bubbly twist—easy to make with or without alcohol, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 155
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups apple juice or cider
  • 1/2 cup vodka optional
  • 1/3 cup apple jam or apple butter
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 bottle champagne or sparkling cider for mocktail
  • 1 bottle ginger beer or ginger ale for mocktail
  • 1 –2 apples thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Star anise pods for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pitcher or punch bowl
  • Whisk
  • Mixing spoon
  • Glasses for serving

Method
 

  1. In a large pitcher, whisk together apple juice, apple jam, and vodka (if using) until smooth.
  2. Add cinnamon sticks and star anise. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  3. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon on a small plate. Dip the rim of each glass in apple juice, then coat with the cinnamon-sugar mix.
  4. Fill glasses with ice. Pour in the chilled cider mixture.
  5. Top each glass with champagne and ginger beer.
  6. Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and a star of anise. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a family-friendly version, skip the alcohol and use sparkling cider and ginger ale. Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall brunches, or holiday parties. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.