Sparkling Cranberry Apple Cider Punch
User Reviews
4.5
Sparkling Cranberry Apple Cider Punch
Description
This punch starts by simmering fresh cranberries in water until they burst, releasing their tart juice, then sweetening the mixture with granulated sugar. Once cooled, this base is combined with fresh apple cider, ginger ale, lemon juice, and cranberry juice, creating a layered drink with fruity and sparkling elements.
The mix of the fresh cranberry reduction and the chilled juices provides a refreshing balance of tartness and sweetness. Ginger ale adds carbonation and a subtle spicy note that brightens the flavor. Lemon juice enhances the overall brightness and complexity.
Serve this punch over crushed ice in cups for a chilled beverage ideal for parties or holidays. For advance preparation, all ingredients except ginger ale can be mixed and chilled ahead of time; add the ginger ale just before serving to retain fizz.
Using fresh-pressed, cloudy apple cider and 100% cranberry juice is preferred for optimal flavor, while choosing a less sweet ginger ale complements the punch without overpowering it.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberries fresh
- ⅓ cup water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups apple cider chilled, see note
- 2 cups ginger ale chilled
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
- 2 cups cranberry juice chilled
- ice crushed
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries and water and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the cranberries pop and split. Remove from the heat and stir in the sugar. Let cool to room temperature (or chill in the refrigerator).
- In a 2-quart pitcher, pour in the cranberry mixture. Add the apple cider, ginger ale, lemon juice and cranberry juice. Mix.
- Serve in cups with crushed ice.
Notes
- Use fresh-pressed apple cider that is cloudy rather than clear for fuller flavor.
- Opt for 100% cranberry juice or adjust sugar if using blends.
- Vernor's ginger ale or less sweet ginger ales work best to avoid too much sweetness.
- Make ahead by mixing all ingredients except ginger ale and refrigerate; add ginger ale just before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Cups (2 quarts)
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 Serving | |
| Calories | 158kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 41g | 14% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 11mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 37g | 74% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.5
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