Spiced Warm Apple Cider Punch
This Spiced Warm Apple Cider Punch is the perfect cozy beverage for any holiday gathering. Infused with fragrant spices and a hint of citrus, it's sure to warm up your guests and create a festive atmosphere. I crafted this delightful punch for a Christmas get-together and it quickly became a favorite! For those looking to elevate the spirit of the season, adding Captain Morgan lends a delightful twist and fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma. Serve this comforting drink at your next celebration and watch it disappear!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Apple cider
4 quarts (none)
Cinnamon sticks
3 (none)
Frozen orange juice concentrate
6 ounces (thawed)
Whole allspice
6 (whole)
Whole cloves
6 (whole)
Frozen lemonade concentrate
6 ounces (thawed)
Packed brown sugar
1 cup (none)
Ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a large crock pot, combine the apple cider, frozen orange juice concentrate, frozen lemonade concentrate, brown sugar, ground nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, allspice, and cloves.
2
Set the crock pot to medium heat and stir occasionally as the mixture warms up.
3
Once the apple cider begins to steam, reduce the heat to low to keep the punch warm without boiling.
4
For easier serving, consider tying the allspice and whole cloves in a piece of cheesecloth or placing them in a tea infuser to avoid floating spices in the drink.
5
Serve warm in mugs, optionally adding a splash of Captain Morgan for those who want a little extra holiday cheer!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Warm Apple Cider Punch?
It is a cozy, festive holiday beverage made with apple cider, citrus concentrates, and fragrant spices like cinnamon and cloves.
What are the main ingredients for this punch?
The ingredients include apple cider, frozen orange juice concentrate, frozen lemonade concentrate, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, whole allspice, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg.
How do I prepare the punch?
Combine all ingredients in a large crock pot, heat on medium while stirring occasionally, then reduce to low once it begins to steam.
Should I boil the apple cider punch?
No, you should reduce the heat to low once it begins to steam to keep it warm without reaching a boil.
How much apple cider is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 quarts of apple cider.
Can I make this punch alcoholic?
Yes, you can add a splash of Captain Morgan rum to individual mugs for a delightful alcoholic twist.
Is this punch suitable for children?
Yes, the base recipe is non-alcoholic and very kid-friendly.
How do I prevent spices from floating in the drink?
You can tie the allspice and whole cloves in a piece of cheesecloth or use a tea infuser for easier serving.
What kind of sugar is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 cup of packed brown sugar for sweetness and depth.
How many cinnamon sticks should I use?
You should add 3 cinnamon sticks to the mixture.
Do I need to thaw the juice concentrates?
Yes, the frozen orange juice and lemonade concentrates should be thawed before being added to the crock pot.
What size are the juice concentrates?
The recipe uses 6 ounces each of orange juice concentrate and lemonade concentrate.
How much ground nutmeg is added?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
How many whole cloves are needed?
The recipe specifies using 6 whole cloves.
How many whole allspice berries are used?
You will need 6 whole allspice berries.
What is the best way to serve the punch?
Serve the punch warm in mugs to keep guests cozy during holiday gatherings.
Can I make this on a stovetop?
While the recipe specifies a crock pot, you can use a large pot on the stove over low heat, monitoring it carefully.
Does this punch have a strong aroma?
Yes, it fills the home with a warm, inviting, and festive spiced aroma.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can combine the ingredients in the crock pot and start heating it before your guests arrive.
Is the lemonade concentrate necessary?
The lemonade concentrate provides a citrusy brightness that balances the sweet cider and spices.
What alcohol goes best with this cider?
Captain Morgan spiced rum is specifically recommended as a great addition.
How many servings does this recipe make?
With 4 quarts of cider plus concentrates, it makes approximately 18 to 20 servings depending on mug size.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of concentrate?
Concentrate provides a more intense flavor, but fresh juice can be used if you reduce the other liquids slightly.
Is this a good drink for Christmas?
Yes, it was specifically crafted for Christmas get-togethers and creates a wonderful holiday atmosphere.
What category of drink is this?
It is categorized as a warm punch or a spiced beverage.
Should I leave the cinnamon sticks in while serving?
You can leave them in for flavor and decoration, or remove them before serving if preferred.
Can I add other spices?
While the recipe includes nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and cinnamon, you could experiment with star anise or ginger.
How often should I stir the punch?
Stir occasionally while it is warming up to ensure the sugar and concentrates are fully dissolved.
Is the brown sugar mandatory?
The brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.
What is the benefit of using a crock pot?
A crock pot allows the punch to stay warm throughout a party without boiling or burning.