Thanksgiving. It’s all about family, right? And delicious food, of course! But let’s be honest, sometimes the drinks get a little…boring. You’ve got your wine, maybe some soda, but what about something FUN? Something festive that *everyone* can enjoy?
I remember one Thanksgiving, I was stuck on drink duty. Total panic mode! I needed something easy, something that wouldn’t take me away from the kitchen chaos for too long. That’s when I started experimenting, and let me tell you, this *thanksgiving punch* was born! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and bubbly – seriously, it’s like Thanksgiving in a glass!
Trust me, this isn’t your grandma’s watery fruit punch (no offense, Grandma!). This recipe is packed with flavor, super simple to throw together, and looks gorgeous on the table. Get ready to wow your guests (and yourself!) with this easy holiday win. I promise, this *thanksgiving punch* will become a family favorite, just like it did for us!
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Punch
Okay, so why *this* thanksgiving punch recipe? Let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! Here’s the lowdown:
Easy to Make
Seriously, if I can do it while wrangling a toddler and basting a turkey, you can *definitely* handle this. It’s dump, stir, and done!
Quick Preparation
We’re talking, like, 10 minutes tops! Perfect when you’re already juggling a million other things on Thanksgiving Day. More time for family, less time stressing!
Festive and Flavorful
That cranberry-apple combo? It’s like a warm hug in a glass! Plus, those fruit slices make it look so pretty. It just screams “Happy Thanksgiving!”
Perfect for a Crowd
This recipe makes a big batch, so you won’t have to worry about running out. Plenty to go around for everyone, from your picky Uncle Jerry to your sweet little niece!
Customizable to Your Taste
Want it sweeter? Add more apple cider! Feeling a little wild? A splash of vodka or rum takes it to a whole new level. You do YOU!
Ingredients for the Perfect Thanksgiving Punch
Alright, let’s talk ingredients! This isn’t rocket science, but using good stuff makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up the best *thanksgiving punch* ever:
Cranberry Juice
You’ll want 4 cups here. I usually go for the unsweetened or low-sugar kind – it lets the other flavors shine! But hey, if you like it sweeter, go for the regular stuff. It’s your punch!
Apple Cider
Gotta have that apple goodness! Grab 4 cups, and trust me on this one: unfiltered cider is where it’s at. It’s got that real apple-y flavor that just screams fall. Yum!
Orange Juice
Freshly squeezed is *always* best, right? You’ll need 1 cup. But if you’re short on time (or oranges!), store-bought works just fine. Just try to get the kind without a ton of added sugar.
Lemon Juice
Don’t skip this! That little bit of tartness really balances everything out. Half a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice is what you’re after. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh is always brighter!
Ginger Ale
This is what gives our punch that bubbly kick! You’ll need a 1-liter bottle, and make sure it’s chilled! And hey, if you’re watching your sugar, diet ginger ale works great too!
Orange Slices
For garnish, of course! One orange, thinly sliced. These make the punch look so festive and add a nice citrusy aroma. Pretty AND practical!
Apple Slices
Same deal as the oranges! One apple, thinly sliced. I like to use a red apple for that pop of color. Plus, who doesn’t love a boozy apple slice?
Cinnamon Sticks
Okay, these are optional, but they add such a cozy, warm touch! A few cinnamon sticks floating in the punch bowl just *scream* Thanksgiving. Plus, they smell amazing!
How to Make Thanksgiving Punch: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, ready to get this *thanksgiving punch* party started? It’s so easy, you’ll be sipping in no time! Just follow these simple steps:
Combine Juices
Grab your prettiest punch bowl (or any large bowl, really) and pour in that cranberry juice, apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice. Give it a good stir to get everything mixed up nicely. That’s it! We’re already halfway there!
Chill Time
Okay, this step is totally optional, but trust me, it makes a difference! If you have time, pop that juice mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. It lets all those flavors meld together and get extra delicious. But hey, if you’re in a rush, skip it! It’ll still be amazing.
Add Ginger Ale
This is important: Wait until *just* before serving to add the ginger ale! Otherwise, it’ll lose its fizz, and nobody wants flat *thanksgiving punch*! Gently pour it in and stir it just enough to combine – don’t go crazy, or you’ll release all those bubbles!
Add Fruit
Now for the pretty part! Toss in those orange and apple slices. They make the *thanksgiving punch* look so festive and add a little extra flavor as they soak. Plus, who doesn’t love a fruit-infused drink?

Garnish and Serve
Last but not least, add those cinnamon sticks! They’re the perfect finishing touch. Now grab some glasses, ladle up that *thanksgiving punch*, and get ready to impress your guests! Cheers!
Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Punch
Want to take your *thanksgiving punch* from good to AMAZING? Here are a few little tricks I’ve learned over the years:
Chill Your Ingredients
Seriously, this makes a HUGE difference! Nobody wants a lukewarm punch, right? So, make sure your cranberry juice, apple cider, and especially that ginger ale are nice and cold before you even start. It’ll keep your *thanksgiving punch* frosty for longer!
Don’t Add Ginger Ale Too Early
I know, I know, it’s tempting to just dump everything in at once and be done with it. But trust me on this: wait until right before serving to add the ginger ale. Otherwise, it’ll lose its fizz, and you’ll end up with a sad, flat punch. Nobody wants that!
Adjust Sweetness to Taste
Is it too tart? Too sweet? No problem! Just add more apple cider to make it sweeter, or a little extra lemon juice to balance it out. Taste as you go and make it your own! That’s the beauty of homemade *thanksgiving punch*!
Make it Boozy
Okay, this one’s for the grown-ups! If you want to add a little kick to your *thanksgiving punch*, a cup of vodka, rum, or even bourbon works wonders. Just stir it in gently before adding the fruit. But remember, drink responsibly!
Thanksgiving Punch Variations
Okay, so you’ve got the basic *thanksgiving punch* down, but feeling a little adventurous? Let’s spice things up! Here are a few fun twists to make it extra special:
Sparkling Cranberry Thanksgiving Punch
Want to add even *more* fizz? Swap out the regular cranberry juice for sparkling cranberry juice! It’s like a party in your mouth, I swear! Plus, it looks so pretty with all those extra bubbles!
Spiced Apple Thanksgiving Punch
If you’re a spice lover like me, this one’s for you! Just add a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cloves to the juice mixture. It’ll give your *thanksgiving punch* a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for a chilly Thanksgiving day. Trust me on this, it’s amazing!
Fruity Thanksgiving Punch
Want to load up on even *more* fruit? Go for it! Toss in some fresh cranberries, sliced pears, or even pomegranate seeds. They’ll add extra flavor, color, and texture to your *thanksgiving punch*. Plus, they look so festive!

Serving Suggestions for Your Thanksgiving Punch
So, you’ve got your *thanksgiving punch* ready to go – awesome! But what do you serve it with? Here are a couple of ideas to make your Thanksgiving even more amazing:
Perfect Pairing
Honestly, this *thanksgiving punch* goes with just about anything! But I especially love it with Thanksgiving appetizers like cranberry brie bites or some yummy mini quiches. It’s also fantastic with desserts – think pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or even just a simple plate of cookies!
Festive Presentation
Okay, this is where you can really get creative! Break out your prettiest punch bowl (or snag one from your grandma!). Use some fancy glasses, add extra fruit slices, and maybe even some little paper umbrellas (why not?!). It’s all about making it look fun and festive!
FAQ About Thanksgiving Punch
Got questions about this *thanksgiving punch*? I got answers! Here are a few things I get asked all the time:
Can I make *thanksgiving punch* ahead of time?
Yep, totally! You can mix the cranberry juice, apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice a day or two in advance. Just keep it in the fridge. But the *big* secret? Wait to add the ginger ale until right before serving to keep it bubbly! Trust me on this.
What can I substitute for ginger ale in this *thanksgiving punch* recipe?
No ginger ale on hand? No problem! Club soda or sparkling water work great. You’ll still get that fizz, just without the ginger flavor. You could even try a flavored sparkling water for a fun twist!
How do I make a kid-friendly *thanksgiving punch*?
Good news! This *thanksgiving punch* is already pretty kid-friendly! But if you want to be extra safe (or avoid any sugar rushes!), just skip the alcohol (if you’re adding any) and maybe use a low-sugar cranberry juice. Easy peasy!
Nutritional Information for Thanksgiving Punch
Okay, so you’re probably wondering about the nitty-gritty stuff – the calories, the sugar, all that jazz! Here’s a rough idea of what you’re looking at with this *thanksgiving punch* (but keep in mind, it’s just an estimate, okay?).
Per serving (about 1 cup), you’re probably looking at around 120 calories. Not bad, right? There’s also about 30 grams of carbs, mostly from the juice, and around 25 grams of sugar. And hey, good news! There’s basically no fat or protein in this *thanksgiving punch*, so you can save those calories for the pie! Just remember, these numbers can change depending on the exact ingredients you use (like if you go crazy with the apple cider!). But hey, it’s Thanksgiving – enjoy!
Enjoy Your Thanksgiving Punch!
And there you have it! The easiest, most festive *thanksgiving punch* EVER! I hope you and your family love it as much as we do. Seriously, give it a try and let me know what you think! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or share your photos on social media! Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Print
Devilish Thanksgiving Punch Recipe Needs Just 10 Minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A festive and flavorful Thanksgiving punch perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cranberry juice
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 liter ginger ale, chilled
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
- Combine cranberry juice, apple cider, orange juice, and lemon juice in a large punch bowl.
- Stir well to combine.
- Just before serving, add chilled ginger ale.
- Add orange and apple slices to the punch bowl.
- Garnish with cinnamon sticks.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less apple cider.
- For an adult version, add 1 cup of vodka or rum.
- Chill all ingredients before mixing for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg