Orange and Cider Winter Punch

This citrusy, cider drink brings spice to the holiday festivities.

Orange and Cider Winter Punch, Image by Rachel Johnson

Orange and Cider Winter Punch

To really start the party, add 1½ cups chilled cinnamon-flavored whiskey or spiced rum to the mix.

Serves: 8–10

Prep Time: 10 minutes

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground allspice

1 (64-ounce) bottle apple cider

1 (12-ounce) can frozen orange juice concentrate

1 liter ginger ale, chilled

1 orange, sliced

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, cinnamon, allspice and 1 cup cider; bring to a low simmer, stirring until the sugar is dissolved (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat; stir in orange juice concentrate.

2. Transfer to a pitcher. Stir in remaining cider; refrigerate until cold (about 2 hours).

3. To serve, transfer cider to a punch bowl; top with ginger ale. Garnish with orange slices and large ice block*, if desired.

*Make a Festive Ice Block: Boil 2 quarts water; allow to cool to room temperature. Fill a large, circular storage container (plastic) about 3⁄4 of the way full with the boiled water. Add apple slices, orange slices, rosemary sprigs or other festive edible decor; cover. Chill until frozen solid (about 8 hours). Gently lower ice into the punch; serve.

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