Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Punch Cocktail Recipe

When I’m in the mood for a cozy drink that feels a little special, I usually whip up my Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Punch. It’s a cocktail that brings together the sweetness of apple cider, the warmth of bourbon, and a bunch of fall spices that just make the whole thing sing.

Honestly, it’s so easy to make a big batch. I’ll serve it up for friends at a gathering, or just enjoy a glass on a chilly night at home.

Every single time I bring this punch out, someone ends up asking for the recipe. There’s something about the balance—fresh, crisp cider, a gentle bourbon kick, and those cozy spices that make it smell and taste so inviting.

If you’re into simple drinks that bring a little warmth and comfort, you might want to give this punch a try. It works for parties, but it’s just as nice for a quiet evening in.

Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Punch Cocktail Recipe

This punch is all about bourbon, apple cider, and those warm spices—definitely festive. I’ve found it’s super easy to throw together, which is great if you’re hosting or just want something fun for family.

Equipment

• Large punch bowl – I just use whatever’s big enough to mix and serve.
• Wooden spoon or ladle – Makes mixing and serving a breeze.
• Measuring cups – I like having these on hand for the cider, bourbon, and juices.
• Small saucepan – Sometimes I’ll warm up honey or cider with spices in this.
• Knife and cutting board – For slicing up apples and oranges, of course.
• Pitcher (optional) – Occasionally I chill the punch in a pitcher first.
• Glasses or mugs – Clear ones look great with the fruit and cinnamon sticks floating around.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups bourbon
• 1 cup orange juice
• ½ cup lemon juice
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 cup club soda or ginger beer (I’m partial to ginger beer for that extra spice)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1–2 apples, sliced
• 1 orange, sliced
• ¼ cup Cointreau (or any orange liqueur you’ve got)
• Ice cubes

Instructions

• Pour the apple cider, bourbon, orange juice, and lemon juice into your punch bowl.
• Add the honey and give it a good stir until it dissolves.
• Drop in the nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, and Cointreau for a nice, spiced kick.
• Right before serving, mix in the ginger beer or club soda for a little fizz.
• Toss in the apple slices, orange slices, and cranberries.
• Stir gently so the fruits get all mixed in.
• Throw in some ice cubes to chill everything down.
• Ladle into glasses, making sure everyone gets some fruit and maybe a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.

Notes

For the best flavor, I usually let the fruit and spices hang out in the cider-bourbon mix for about 30 minutes before serving. It really helps everything blend together.

If I’m not in the mood for something super sweet, I’ll use club soda instead of ginger beer.

Sometimes I swap out Cointreau for whatever orange liqueur I have lying around. And honestly, local apple cider always tastes best if you can get it.

Want a non-alcoholic version? Just skip the bourbon and Cointreau, and add extra ginger beer or sparkling apple cider. That way everyone, including kids or folks who don’t drink, can join in.

Tasting Notes

So, when I take a sip of this Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Punch, the apple cider jumps out first. It’s sweet, a bit tart, and there’s this cozy autumn spice vibe going on.

There’s cinnamon and clove in there, and honestly, it just makes me think of chilly days. The bourbon sneaks in with this smooth warmth—almost like a gentle hug.

I really appreciate how it brings a touch of vanilla, plus a little kick. You can definitely taste the alcohol, but it doesn’t bulldoze the fruit or the spice.

Since I usually make this as a batch cocktail, every glass turns out pretty much the same. The flavors just seem to get along, and nothing is screaming for attention.

The punch isn’t too strong, so it’s easy to sip on without worrying about it hitting too hard. Then there’s the citrus—just a splash, but it adds this fresh, zesty thing that keeps it interesting.

It kind of brightens everything up. The finish is clean, with a soft warmth from the bourbon and spice that hangs around for a bit.