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This Prosecco Cranberry Apple Cider Thanksgiving Punch is a perfect crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings. It is vibrant, fruity, and fizzy with warm spices that make it festive and aromatic. Every sip captures the spirit of the season, leaving guests asking for the recipe.
The first time I made this, it was for a Friendsgiving dinner. It quickly became the centerpiece of the party, with everyone returning for refills until the bowl was empty.
Ingredients
- Apple cider: to provide a cozy, sweet base perfect for seasonal drinks
- Cranberry juice: for a tart, tangy contrast that brightens the flavor
- Bourbon: for warmth and depth which balances the sweetness
- Prosecco: well chilled for bubbles and a celebratory fizz
- Red apples: thinly sliced for a decorative and fresh fall touch
- Cinnamon sticks: to infuse warm spice into the drink while doubling as a garnish
- Star anise: for its unique licorice-like aroma adding complexity
- Thyme: fresh sprigs optional for a hint of herbal freshness
How To Make Prosecco Cranberry Apple Cider Thanksgiving Punch
- Pour the Base:
- In a large punch bowl pour the apple cider cranberry juice and bourbon. Mix gently to combine the flavors.
- Add the Fizz:
- Right before serving carefully pour in the chilled prosecco. Stir gently to maintain the delicate bubbles.
- Garnish Decoratively:
- Float apple slices cinnamon sticks star anise and fresh thyme sprigs on the surface for a beautiful festive look.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Fill individual punch cups with ice and use a ladle to pour the punch. Garnish each cup with an extra apple slice or cinnamon stick if you’d like. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful holiday punch.
I love using star anise in this recipe. Not only does it look like a little festive star floating in the punch but it adds an aromatic depth that pairs so well with the apple and cranberry notes. This punch has become a Thanksgiving tradition in our house every year.
Storage Tips
While this punch is best served fresh, you can prepare the base of apple cider cranberry juice and bourbon ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add prosecco and garnishes just before serving to keep it bubbly and aromatic.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with ginger ale or sparkling apple cider. For a sweeter touch, substitute cranberry juice with cranberry cocktail.
A Festive Hosting Hack
Prepare a punch station and let guests serve themselves. Arrange the punch bowl with cups napkins and extra garnishes for a self-serve centerpiece. This frees up your time to enjoy the company while ensuring everyone can refill their cups as needed.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I replace prosecco with another sparkling drink?
Yes, you can use sparkling wine, champagne, or even sparkling water as a non-alcoholic alternative.
- → What type of bourbon works best for this punch?
Use a mid-range bourbon with a smooth caramel or vanilla profile to complement the punch's sweet and fruity flavors.
- → How far in advance can I prepare this punch?
You can mix the cider, cranberry juice, and bourbon a day in advance, but add the prosecco just before serving to keep it bubbly.
- → Are there non-alcoholic substitutions for this punch?
Omit bourbon and swap prosecco for sparkling apple juice or sparkling cider for a family-friendly version.
- → What other garnishes can I use instead of cinnamon and star anise?
You can try orange slices, cranberries, or rosemary sprigs for an equally festive look and flavor.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness of this punch?
Add more cranberry juice for extra sweetness, or balance it by using a drier prosecco or reducing the cider.