Cranberry Spice Punch

Name: Cranberry Spice Punch
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cranberry juice (100% juice, not cocktail); 1 cup fresh orange juice; 1/2 cup water; 2 cinnamon sticks; 3 whole star anise; 4 whole cloves; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 orange, sliced into rounds; Fresh cranberries, for garnish; Cinnamon sticks, for serving

A warming holiday punch with cranberry, cinnamon, and star anise — perfect for festive gatherings.

Recipe guidanceClear ingredients, preparation steps, serving yield, and optional swaps for home mixing.

Prep time

15 min

Total time

15 min

Serves

Difficulty

Medium

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holiday warm spiced cranberry party winter

Bright & refreshing

A balanced alcohol-free drink built around real citrus and fruit flavor.

Simple ingredients

Easy-to-find ingredients and an approachable home-bar method.

Perfect for occasions

Made for an everyday treat, dinner party, or celebratory pour.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings. Ingredient quantities update with the selected batch size.

3 cups cranberry juice (100% juice, not cocktail)
1 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 cup water
2 cinnamon sticks
3 whole star anise
4 whole cloves
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 orange, sliced into rounds
Fresh cranberries, for garnish
Cinnamon sticks, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1
Prepare the glass
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry juice, orange juice, and water.
2
Build the drink
Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and whole cloves.
3
Add the finishing touch
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat — do not boil.
4
Garnish & serve
Reduce heat to low and let the spices infuse for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5
Garnish & serve
Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup. Taste and adjust sweetness.
6
Garnish & serve
Strain out the whole spices (or leave them in for presentation).
7
Garnish & serve
Serve warm in mugs with an orange slice, a few cranberries, and a cinnamon stick for stirring.
8
Garnish & serve
Alternatively, let it cool completely and serve over ice for a cold version.

Recipe Tips

Make a big batch in a slow cooker for parties — keep it on warm and let guests serve themselves.
The punch tastes even better the next day as the spices continue to develop.
Add a splash of ginger ale when serving cold for extra sparkle.

Make It Your Own

For a crowd: Prepare the spiced or fruit base ahead, chill it, and set garnishes out separately. Add sparkling ingredients at the last minute.

Easy swaps: Use apple juice or white grape juice when a seasonal juice is unavailable. Use cinnamon sticks or citrus peel for aroma instead of adding more ground spice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Yes. Make the non-carbonated base a day ahead, then chill and finish each glass just before serving.

How can I make the garnish festive?

Use citrus wheels, cranberries, rosemary, or a lightly spiced rim that matches the drink.

Recipe by

Larry Leo

Recipe guidance

Clear ingredients, preparation steps, serving yield, and optional swaps for home mixing. Check the ingredient list, substitution guidance, and dietary labels before serving.

Recipe record updated: August 26, 2026

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