Thanksgiving Punch | Holiday Cocktail or Mocktail

Thanksgiving Punch | Holiday Cocktail or Mocktail

Make your holiday gatherings extra special with this vibrant and flavorful Thanksgiving Punch. This refreshing mocktail is packed with autumn-inspired ingredients like cranberry, apple, orange, and warm spices—perfect for both kids and adults at your table.

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Punch

This family-friendly punch is easy to make and naturally sweet with no need for added sugars or syrups.

  • 4 cups 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened preferred)

  • 2 cups apple cider (or 100% apple juice)

  • 2 cups orange juice (no pulp)

  • 2 cups ginger ale or sparkling apple cider

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (optional for brightness)

  • 1 apple, thinly sliced

  • 1 orange, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)

  • 3 cinnamon sticks

  • Ice (for serving)

Required Kitchen Tools

  • Large punch bowl or glass dispenser

  • Long-handled spoon or ladle

  • Measuring cups

  • Sharp knife and cutting board

  • Serving glasses or mason jars

How to Make Thanksgiving Punch – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Wash and thinly slice the apple and orange. Rinse the cranberries if using. These fruits add flavor and a beautiful look to the punch.

Step 2: Combine the Juices

In a large bowl or dispenser, mix the cranberry juice, apple cider, and orange juice. Add the lemon juice if desired.

Step 3: Add Fruit and Spices

Stir in the fruit slices and cinnamon sticks. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add the Fizz

Right before serving, pour in the ginger ale or sparkling apple cider. This keeps the punch bubbly and refreshing.

Step 5: Serve with Ice

Add ice to the punch or directly into glasses. Use a ladle to serve and be sure each cup gets a few fruit pieces for garnish.

Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Punch

Chill Ingredients First

Use cold juice and cider so the punch stays chilled longer without melting too much ice.

Customize Fruit

Add pear slices, pomegranate seeds, or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a different twist.

Make It Look Festive

Use clear glasses and colorful garnishes like sugared cranberries or orange peel spirals for a wow factor.

Make Ahead

Prepare the base (juices + fruit + spices) the night before. Add the sparkling drink and ice just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Thanksgiving Punch pairs beautifully with:

  • Roasted turkey and stuffing

  • Holiday appetizers like cheese boards or puff pastries

  • Seasonal desserts like pumpkin pie, apple crumble, or gingerbread cookies

Serve in:

  • Mason jars with cinnamon stick stirrers

  • Glass tumblers rimmed with brown sugar and cinnamon

  • A punch bowl surrounded by fall leaves or mini pumpkins for decoration

Nutritional Information (per 8 oz serving)

Approximate values for mocktail version:

  • Calories: 110

  • Sugar: 21g

  • Vitamin C: 65% DV

  • Carbs: 25g

  • Fat: 0g

  • Fiber: <1g

  • Protein: 0g

💡 For a lighter option, use diet ginger ale or mix with sparkling water.

Thanksgiving Punch Variations 

Pomegranate Citrus Punch

Swap cranberry juice for pomegranate juice and add lime slices for a zesty twist.

Pear and Apple Spice Punch

Use pear nectar with apple cider and garnish with star anise and sliced pears.

Frozen Thanksgiving Slush

Freeze the juice base in advance and blend before serving for a frosty version.

How to Store Leftovers

  • Store any leftovers (without ice) in a sealed jug in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • The flavors deepen over time and can taste even better the next day!

  • Re-carbonate with fresh ginger ale or sparkling juice before serving again.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Punch

Zero – Safe for all ages and cultures

Quick to prepare – 10 minutes from start to finish

Seasonal flavor – Made with real fruit juices and spices

Visually festive – Makes any table shine

Make-ahead friendly – Less stress on Thanksgiving Day

Final Thoughts

This Thanksgiving Punch is more than just a drink—it’s a beautiful, flavorful celebration of the season. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or a small gathering with friends, this mocktail will bring sparkle and warmth to your table without needing

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