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cranberry punch recipe details

Hot Mulled Cranberry Punch

This warming holiday beverage combines tangy cranberry juice with sweet apple cider and aromatic spices for a comforting winter drink. Perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this simple punch fills your home with delightful seasonal aromas while warming you from the inside out.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons honey or to taste
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 orange thinly sliced
  • 4 cups cranberry juice 100% juice, not cocktail
  • Garnish options extra orange slices, fresh cranberries, or star anise

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • Ladle
  • Slow cooker (optional)

Method
 

  1. Combine cranberry juice, apple cider, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and honey in a medium pot.
  2. Bring the mixture just to a simmer over medium heat until gently bubbling around the edges.
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for about 15 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the liquid.
  4. Ladle the warm punch into mugs, including an orange slice in each serving if desired.
  5. Garnish with fresh cranberries or star anise if using.

Notes

For a hands-off approach, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on LOW for 2-3 hours, then switch to WARM for serving. This method is perfect for entertaining.
For an adult version, add a splash of bourbon, brandy, or spiced rum after removing from heat.
Remove whole spices before storing any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving again.