Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (950 ml) apple cider
  • 1 cup (235 ml) sparkling water or club soda
  • ½ cup (120 ml) orange liqueur or apple brandy
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4-5 whole cloves
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 apple, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cranberries
  • Additional orange and apple slices
  • Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, and orange slices. Gently heat until warm, but do not boil, then remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
  2. Strain out the spices and fruit slices, then transfer the infused cider to a pitcher or large bowl. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  3. In the punch bowl, combine the chilled infused cider, orange liqueur (if using), and sparkling water. Gently stir to combine.
  4. Add fresh fruit slices, cranberries, and ice cubes to the punch bowl. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity with extra cider or citrus slices if desired.
  5. Ladle into glasses, ensuring each gets some fruit and ice. Garnish with additional fruit slices or a cinnamon stick for presentation.