Thanksgiving Punch Cocktail Recipe

When Thanksgiving rolls around, I’m always on the hunt for something easy that’ll make the day feel just a bit more special. A festive cocktail is kind of my go-to—there’s just something about gathering with a glass in hand before dinner.

My Thanksgiving punch cocktail recipe is simple, tasty, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

I love putting together a punch that blends crisp apple cider, bright cranberry juice, and a splash of vodka (or rum) for a grown-up kick. The colors just scream autumn.

If you want a drink that looks as good as it tastes, you’ll probably love this as much as I do.

Here’s how I make it—quick, fun, and honestly, it just makes Thanksgiving feel even more like a celebration.

Thanksgiving Punch Cocktail Recipe

This Thanksgiving punch tastes festive and looks beautiful on the table. I use a mix of juices, spices, and fruit—honestly, it’s hard to mess up.

It’s easy to make, works for a crowd, and you can tweak it for kids or adults depending on the vibe.

Equipment

• Punch bowl (glass or plastic, at least 1 gallon)
• Large mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board
• Citrus juicer
• Ladle for serving
• Ice bucket or tray
• Small plates for fruit slices (apple, pear, and orange)
• Glasses or cups for serving

A punch bowl is just easier for serving everybody. Knife and cutting board—obviously, you’ll want those for the fruit.

Having a ladle makes things less messy. I keep an ice bucket close so the punch doesn’t get watered down too quickly.

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider (fresh or sparkling)
• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1-2 cups ginger beer (or sparkling apple cider for a non-alcoholic option)
• 1 cup spiced rum (optional, or use apple juice for non-alcoholic)
• ¼ cup honey (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1 apple, sliced thin
• 1 pear, sliced thin
• ½ cup fresh cranberries (for garnish)
• 2-3 cinnamon sticks
• 3-4 whole cloves
• 2 star anise
• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Sometimes I swap the rum for hard cider if I want something stronger. For a kid-friendly version, just skip the booze and use sparkling apple cider.

Mixing in fresh fruit and whole spices brings out all those cozy fall flavors.

Instructions

• Add apple cider, cranberry juice, and orange juice into the punch bowl.
• Stir in the ginger beer (or sparkling cider) and spiced rum (or apple juice/hard cider).
• Mix in honey, stirring well to dissolve it.
• Add orange slices, apple slices, and pear slices to the punch.
• Drop in cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
• Let the punch chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour so the flavors blend.
• Before serving, add fresh ice as needed.
• Garnish each glass with a rosemary sprig and extra fruit slices.

I always taste before serving—sometimes it needs a bit more honey or a splash of juice. Chilling is key; it lets the spices and fruit infuse, and the flavor gets even better.

Notes

If you can, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider. It’s just better. But hey, regular apple juice is fine if you’re in a pinch.

Can’t find star anise? Don’t stress, just leave it out. I’ve even tossed in a vanilla bean before for something different.

For a big crew, double the recipe and grab a larger punch bowl. If you leave out the alcohol, everyone can have some—even the kids.

Leftover punch? Pop it in the fridge and the flavors get even stronger. I like to use extra cinnamon sticks and rosemary around the bowl for a little decoration.

It’s a simple way to make your Thanksgiving table feel extra festive.

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip of this Thanksgiving Punch Cocktail, I notice the balance between sweet and tart flavors. The cranberry juice brings a sharp tang.

Apple cider adds a smooth, gentle sweetness. There’s just a little hint of spice from the cinnamon, and the orange slices give it a subtle citrus kick.

These flavors instantly remind me of fall gatherings—maybe it’s the cinnamon, or maybe it’s just the vibe. The drink looks bright and festive in the glass.

Its reddish color, with fruit slices floating around, makes the punch feel special and honestly kind of inviting.

Here’s what I taste in each sip:

• Cranberry: Tangy, a little tart
• Apple cider: Sweet, fresh, smooth
• Citrus: Light and zesty notes
• Cinnamon: Hints of warming spice

The punch isn’t too strong, but there’s a little warmth from the alcohol. I find it’s easy to drink, and most guests would probably agree.

The ice keeps it cold, which I appreciate—nobody likes a lukewarm punch. I like that the flavors are simple and easy to pick out.

This punch just tastes familiar and comforting, which feels just right for Thanksgiving.