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.
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4 cups 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened preferred)
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2 cups apple cider (or 100% apple juice)
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2 cups orange juice (no pulp)
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2 cups ginger ale or sparkling apple cider
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (optional for brightness)
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1 apple, thinly sliced
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1 orange, thinly sliced
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1 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
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3 cinnamon sticks
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Ice (for serving)
Required Kitchen Tools
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Large punch bowl or glass dispenser
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Long-handled spoon or ladle
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Measuring cups
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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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:
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Roasted turkey and stuffing
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Holiday appetizers like cheese boards or puff pastries
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Seasonal desserts like pumpkin pie, apple crumble, or gingerbread cookies
Serve in:
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Mason jars with cinnamon stick stirrers
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Glass tumblers rimmed with brown sugar and cinnamon
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A punch bowl surrounded by fall leaves or mini pumpkins for decoration
Nutritional Information (per 8 oz serving)
Approximate values for mocktail version:
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Calories: 110
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Sugar: 21g
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Vitamin C: 65% DV
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Carbs: 25g
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Fat: 0g
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Fiber: <1g
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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
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Store any leftovers (without ice) in a sealed jug in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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The flavors deepen over time and can taste even better the next day!
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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