Name: Spiced Apple Cider Punch with Bourbon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: Approximately 12 servings
Cuisine: American cuisine
Ingredients: 2 l apple cider; 2 cup bourbon; 4 pcs cinnamon sticks; 4 pcs star anise; 1 tbsp whole cloves; 2 pcs orange (thinly sliced); 1 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)

Warm spiced apple cider, featuring a rich amber hue and bubbling froth, is elegantly poured into a clear glass mug, crowned with a cinnamon stick and fresh apple slices, for a cozy autumnal beverage.

This warming punch combines the crisp, tart notes of apple cider with an alluring blend of cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, all elevated by a generous measure of rich bourbon. It's an elegant yet comforting adult beverage, perfect for autumn evenings, holiday celebrations, or any gathering that calls for a sophisticated communal drink. The slow simmering process infuses the cider with deep, aromatic spice flavors that will fill your home with a wonderful scent, creating a festive atmosphere. Served warm, garnished with fresh orange slices and cinnamon sticks, this punch offers a delightful alternative to traditional mulled wine, providing a cozy and memorable experience for your guests.

Preparation time: 15 min
Cooking time: 1 hr
Total time: 1 hr 15 min
Servings: 12

Instructions

Preparation

1Combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and whole cloves in a large saucepan or pot. Add half of the sliced oranges.

Cooking

1Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 45-60 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse the cider.
2Carefully stir in the bourbon. Continue to heat for another 5-10 minutes, ensuring the punch is thoroughly warmed through but still not boiling, as boiling can cook off the alcohol.

Serving

1Remove the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves if desired, or leave them in for visual appeal and continued infusion.
2Pour the warm spiced apple cider punch into heatproof mugs or a punch bowl. Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and a cinnamon stick. Add a few fresh cranberries if using.

Instructions

Preparation

1Combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and whole cloves in a large saucepan or pot. Add half of the sliced oranges.

Cooking

1Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 45-60 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse the cider.
2Carefully stir in the bourbon. Continue to heat for another 5-10 minutes, ensuring the punch is thoroughly warmed through but still not boiling, as boiling can cook off the alcohol.

Serving

1Remove the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves if desired, or leave them in for visual appeal and continued infusion.
2Pour the warm spiced apple cider punch into heatproof mugs or a punch bowl. Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and a cinnamon stick. Add a few fresh cranberries if using.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 131 kcal
Protein: 0 g
Fat: 0 g
Carbs: 16 g

Nutrient	Per serving
Calories	131 kcal
Protein	0 g
Fat	0 g
Carbs	16 g

Tips

For a stronger spice flavor, gently crush the whole cloves and star anise before adding them to the cider.
Keep the punch warm throughout your gathering by transferring it to a slow cooker on the "warm" setting after the bourbon is added.
To make this punch kid-friendly or alcohol-free, simply omit the bourbon and add an extra cup of apple cider or juice instead.