How to Make the Best Apple Cider Punch (Easy Recipe!)
This apple cider punch is a quick and festive fall drink that comes together in under 10 minutes! Made with crisp apple cider, warm spices, and fresh fruit, it’s completely non-alcoholic—making it perfect for family gatherings and holiday parties!
Wholesome cooking is all about balance—using simple ingredients to create meals that taste amazing and truly support your well-being. I’m passionate about making that process easy and fun, and I’d love for you to join me over on Instagram where I share new recipes and inspiration every week.
Oh and by the way, I’m so glad you’re here!
My family and I have very recently started a tradition of hosting a little “seasonal tea party” throughout the year as another excuse to get together as we celebrate the changing seasons. This idea was first brought up by my 4 year old, who had been begging to attend a fancy tea party.
So, we obliged! Earlier this summer, we all got together at my parents house to celebrate a “summer tea.” We dressed up in our finest attire, ate off fancy plates, and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience!
We immediately made plans for a fall tea party, and I knew once that time came I had to make some sort of beautiful and festive fall drink.
Thus… this sparkling apple cider punch was born! Easy to make in 10 minutes (or less!) and made without alcohol so it can be enjoyed by all (my 4 year old and heavily pregnant sister included).
It was easy, delicious, and everyone declared it a winner! I already have plans to make it again for Thanksgiving.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
TOTAL TIME: This drink is whipped up fast in about 5-10 minutes.
SERVES: A large crowd (made without alcohol so it’s extra family friendly!)
MAKE AHEAD: This drink can be made up to 1 day in advance (forgoing the sliced fruit and sparkling water until ready to serve) and stored in the fridge until ready to use.
BEST SERVED WITH: This is a beautiful drink to serve at fall gatherings alongside other fall favorites like orange cranberry scones and this sourdough pumpkin bread!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Step by Step Instructions
- In a large pitcher, mix together the apple cider, orange juice, and sparkling water. Stir well to combine.
2. Add in the sliced fruit, stirring again to combine. Serve immediately over ice with additional fruit for garnish. Enjoy!
Variations & Substitutions
- Spiked Apple Cider: Turn your punch into a cozy adult beverage with a splash (or two!) of bourbon, white wine, or hard cider. These all would pair nicely with warm fall spices and apple flavor.
- Extra Fizz: If sparkling water isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it with ginger ale or another soda!
- Fruits: Use what you have—pears, pomegranates, or even frozen berries work beautifully. Cinnamon sticks and a sprig of rosemary also work well as a pretty garnish for each glass.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below!
Recipe FAQs & Storage Tips
Yes! Mix together the apple cider and orange juice and store in the fridge up to 1 day in advance. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and fresh fruit.
This punch will store well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, although I recommend enjoying it within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture!
Apple cider and apple juice can both work, but they’ll give slightly different results. Apple cider has a richer, spiced, and more robust flavor that’s perfect for festive drinks during the fall and holiday months. Apple juice is filtered and sweeter, making it a good alternative if you want a lighter, milder punch.
More Drink Recipes
Check out these other reader favorite drink recipes!
Pin it For Later!
Best Apple Cider Punch (Easy Recipe!)
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- 3 cups sparkling water
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, mix together the apple cider, orange juice, and sparkling water. Stir well to combine.
- Add in the sliced fruit, stirring again to combine. Serve immediately over ice with additional fruit for garnish. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make Ahead Instructions: Mix together the apple cider and orange juice and store in the fridge up to 1 day in advance. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and fresh fruit.
- Storage: This punch will store well covered tightly in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, although I recommend enjoying it within 24 hours for the best flavor & texture!
- Spiked Apple Cider Option: Turn your punch into a cozy adult beverage with a splash (or two!) of bourbon, white wine, or hard cider. These all would pair nicely with warm fall spices and apple flavor.
- Fruits: Use what you have—pears, pomegranates, or even frozen berries work beautifully. Cinnamon sticks and a sprig of rosemary also work well as a pretty garnish for each glass.
- Extra Fizz: If sparkling water isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it with ginger ale or another soda!
If you loved this recipe for easy apple cider punch, be sure to come back and leave a comment and a 5 star rating! Tag me on Instagram with your creations @ourhandcraftedhomeblog.
Definitely making this for Thanksgiving. Just tried it out yesterday and it’s a perfect fall drink!!