Description
A forgiving, large-batch spiked apple cider punch with bourbon, crushed pineapple, and warm spices. Perfect for game day or winter gatherings, this drink is easy to make in a stockpot or slow cooker and serves a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 quarts (3.8 liters) unsweetened apple cider
- 1 standard 750ml bottle bourbon
- 1 can (20oz) crushed pineapple (with syrup)
- 4–5 cinnamon sticks
- 10–12 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 large orange, sliced into wheels
- 2 star anise pods (optional)
- 1–2 apples, sliced thin (for garnish)
- Cinnamon sugar (1 tbsp sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon) for rimming mugs (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and slice the orange into thick wheels and the apple for garnish. Gather spices.
- Pour the unsweetened apple cider into a large stockpot or slow cooker.
- Add the entire can of crushed pineapple, including the syrup, and stir to combine.
- Pour in the bourbon and add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and orange slices. Stir gently.
- If using a stove: Place over medium-low heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Do not boil vigorously.
- If using a slow cooker: Turn to LOW and heat for 2-3 hours until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the punch and adjust sweetness or spice levels if desired.
- Remove from heat. Strain out spices if preferred, or leave them in for infusion.
- Ladle into mugs, garnish with apple slices or cinnamon sticks, and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not boil the bourbon vigorously as it will evaporate the alcohol. Freshly grated nutmeg provides significantly better flavor than pre-ground. The crushed pineapple adds tropical sweetness and acidity that balances the drink; do not drain the syrup. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. For a mocktail version, omit the bourbon and add extra cider or ginger ale.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 oz per serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 26
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
Keywords: spiked apple cider, bourbon punch, game day drink, winter cocktail, slow cooker punch, holiday drink, easy party drink