My Spiced Cranberry Punch Mocktail is a simple, tasty drink that just about anyone can enjoy—especially at parties or family get-togethers. I like making it because it’s bursting with bright cranberry flavor and a gentle mix of warming spices. There’s no alcohol here, so everyone can grab a glass and join in.
This mocktail comes together quickly and doesn’t take much effort. If you’re hoping to serve something a little different, this spiced cranberry punch is a solid pick.
I love pouring it over ice and tossing in some orange slices or extra cranberries for that little extra flair.
Spiced Cranberry Punch Mocktail Recipe
This mocktail’s got a warm, fruity kick from cranberry juice blended with spices like cinnamon and cloves. It just looks so festive, especially with cranberries and orange slices floating on top.
Equipment
- Large pitcher or punch bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Small saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer (for removing spices)
- Glasses for serving
- Ice cube tray or store-bought ice
- Citrus juicer (for the orange juice)
- Ladle (for serving punch)
Having everything ready before you start just makes things smoother. I find the saucepan is especially handy for simmering the spices and juice together without splashing everywhere.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cranberry juice (100% juice, not cocktail)
- 1 cup orange juice (fresh-squeezed is best)
- 2 to 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 large orange, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups club soda or soda water, chilled
- Ice cubes, as needed
I only throw in star anise if I’m feeling like a stronger spiced flavor. Either club soda or soda water does the trick for bubbles.
Instructions
- Add cranberry juice, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to a saucepan.
- Heat over low heat until just simmering, then let it simmer gently for 10–15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes.
- Strain out the spices using a fine mesh strainer.
- Pour the spiced juice into a large pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice cubes.
- Stir in cranberries and orange slices.
- Slowly add the chilled club soda or soda water and stir gently.
- Use a ladle to serve the punch into glasses, making sure each glass gets a few berries and an orange slice.
If you want to prep ahead, I just keep the punch base chilled and add the club soda and ice right before serving.
Notes
I always use 100% cranberry juice for a sharper bite, but if you’re more into sweet drinks, go for a sweetened juice. Want it spicier? Toss in a few more cloves or another cinnamon stick.
This punch is alcohol-free, so it’s perfect for both kids and adults at any holiday or family party. Sometimes I muddle a few cranberries and orange slices at the bottom for an extra burst of flavor.
Leftover punch will keep in the fridge for up to two days, but honestly, the fizz fades after a while. No star anise? No big deal—the recipe still works.
Equipment
- Wooden spoon: For stirring.
- Glasses for serving
- Ice cube tray or store-bought ice
Ingredients
- 4 cups cranberry juice 100% juice, not cocktail
- 1 cup orange juice fresh-squeezed preferred
- 2 to 3 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 star anise optional, for extra spice
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 large orange sliced into rounds
- 2 cups club soda or soda water chilled
- Ice cubes as needed
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
- Heat over low heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool for about 10 minutes.
- Strain out the spices using a fine mesh strainer.
- Stir in the cranberries and orange slices.
- Slowly pour in the chilled club soda or soda water and stir gently.
Tasting Notes
When I take a sip of this spiced cranberry punch mocktail, the first thing that hits me is that tart cranberry flavor. It’s bright, fresh, and kind of wakes up your taste buds.
Then there’s this gentle warmth from the spices—cinnamon and cloves, mostly. It’s cozy, honestly, and feels just right for a holiday drink with friends or family.
The sweetness is balanced. It’s definitely not too sugary, which I appreciate, especially if I’m serving a crowd where some folks aren’t into super-sweet drinks.
Here’s what stands out in each sip:
- Cranberry: Tart and fruity
- Spices: Cinnamon, cloves, maybe a hint of nutmeg
- Citrus: A light note of orange or lemon
I really like how refreshing it is, especially with the sparkling water. The bubbles just make it more fun.
The color is this deep, gorgeous red—looks fantastic in a glass, especially with an orange slice or a few cranberries as garnish.
This mocktail just fits at any holiday table. The flavor is festive, not too heavy, and honestly, it’s easy for everyone to enjoy.
Must Have Ingredients
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Substitute
Sometimes I just don’t have the exact ingredients in the kitchen, or I’m in the mood to mix things up a bit.
Here are a few swaps I actually like:
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
Below is a simple table showing some options:
| Original Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Cranberry Juice | Pomegranate Juice |
| Orange Juice | Apple Juice |
| Orange Slices | Lemon or Lime Slices |
| Cinnamon Stick | Ground Cinnamon |
| Whole Cloves | Ground Allspice |
Trying different combos keeps things interesting.
And honestly, it’s just easier to use what’s already in the pantry.
