Hey y'all! If you're on the hunt for a delightfully festive beverage that brings sweet spice, warmth, and cheer to any gathering, this Gingerbread Punch is about to become your new favorite. It combines the comfort of gingerbread spices with refreshing flavors—ideal for holiday parties, cozy winter nights, or just whenever you want something special. Ready to whip up a pitcher that’ll wow your guests? Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Gingerbread Punch
- It’s quick and easy to prepare—totally beginner-friendly!
- Bursting with cozy spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for true holiday flavor.
- Totally customizable: serve it cold or warm, with or without alcohol.
- Perfect for a crowd, making it a go-to for parties and potlucks.
- Keeps well—make it ahead and let the flavors meld beautifully!
Gingerbread Punch Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups ginger beer (make sure it’s non-alcoholic for a family-friendly version)
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ¼ cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Ice cubes, for serving (if serving cold)
- Optional garnishes: orange slices, cinnamon sticks, fresh cranberries, star anise
How to Make Gingerbread Punch: Step-by-Step Directions
1. Mix the Base
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, whisk together the apple cider, cranberry juice, molasses, honey (or maple syrup), ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and vanilla extract. Make sure the molasses dissolves completely for a smooth, balanced flavor.
2. Add Ginger Beer
Pour in the ginger beer just before serving. If you’re serving the punch cold, stir gently and add plenty of ice cubes. If you prefer it warm, heat the ginger beer separately until just hot (do not boil), then combine.
3. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the Gingerbread Punch into glasses. Garnish with optional orange slices, cinnamon sticks, fresh cranberries, and star anise for a festive touch!
Gingerbread Punch Notes & Tips
- Use homemade ginger beer for an extra zingy, fresh taste!
- For a richer flavor, let the base mixture sit in the fridge for 2 hours or overnight before adding the ginger beer.
- If you want a less sweet punch, reduce the honey or maple syrup to 1 tablespoon.
Gingerbread Punch Variations
- Spiked Gingerbread Punch: Stir in 1 cup dark rum or bourbon for an adult twist.
- Creamy Gingerbread Punch: Add ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a luscious texture.
- Citrus Gingerbread Punch: Mix in 1 cup orange juice and extra orange zest for a zippy citrus lift.
Required Equipment for Gingerbread Punch
- Large pitcher or punch bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Serving glasses or mason jars
Gingerbread Punch Storage & Shelf Life
Store leftover Gingerbread Punch (without ice or garnishes) in an airtight pitcher or jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving as the spices may settle. If serving warm, reheat gently on the stove without boiling.
Serving Ideas & Pairings for Gingerbread Punch
- Serve with classic holiday cookies like soft gingerbread cookies.
- Pair with sharp cheese platters or spiced nuts for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
- Offer as a dessert drink alongside apple pie or pumpkin cheesecake for a show-stopping finale.
Gingerbread Punch Pro Tips
- Chill your pitcher and glasses ahead of time if serving cold for longer-lasting refreshment.
- You can grate a touch of fresh ginger into the base mixture for added zest and aroma. For ginger grating tips, check out this guide.
- Make a big batch a day in advance—the flavors only improve with time!
Gingerbread Punch FAQ
- Can I make Gingerbread Punch ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Make the base up to 2 days in advance and add ginger beer just before serving.
- Is this recipe suitable for kids?
- Yes! Just use non-alcoholic ginger beer and skip any alcohol for a fun, family-friendly drink.
- Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
- Definitely—start with 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger for a bolder flavor.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes (unless serving warm, then 10 minutes)
- Total Time: 10 minutes (cold) or 20 minutes (warm)
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup ginger ale
- ⅓ cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Cinnamon sticks, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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1In a large saucepan, combine apple cider, molasses, brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
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2Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the punch is heated through, about 10 minutes. Do not boil.
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3Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in ginger ale just before serving.
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4Ladle the punch into mugs. Top each serving with whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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