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Hot Mulled Cranberry Punch

A warm, spiced, and fruity punch perfect for the holidays, combining cranberry juice with citrus, spices, and optional wine for a festive beverage.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups cranberry juice
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup red wine (optional)
  • Fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)
  • Orange slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, combine cranberry juice, apple cider, and brown sugar.
  2. Add the orange and lemon slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg.
  3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  5. If using, stir in the red wine and heat for another 5 minutes (do not boil).
  6. Strain the punch to remove spices and fruit slices if desired.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cranberries or orange slices if using.

Notes

  • For a non-alcoholic version, omit the wine.
  • Can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
  • Adjust sweetness to taste by varying the amount of sugar.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot mulled cranberry punch, holiday drink, spiced punch, warm beverage, non-alcoholic punch, mulled wine