When the holidays roll around, nothing sets the mood like a festive cocktail, and this Harvest Rum Punch (Christmas Recipe & Thanksgiving Recipe) is perfect for both occasions. I first made it at a Christmas party, and the blend of spiced rum, apple cider, cranberry, and citrus quickly became the star of the evening. The following Thanksgiving, I served it again, and it paired beautifully with roasted turkey and sweet side dishes. It’s fruity, warming, and big-batch friendly—ideal for entertaining during the busiest (and coziest) time of the year.
Ingredients
2 cups spiced rum
2 cups apple cider
2 cups cranberry juice
1 cup orange juice
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
1 cup ginger ale or sparkling water
Apple slices, orange slices, and cranberries for garnish
Cinnamon sticks or star anise for garnish
Ice
Instructions
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine rum, apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, and maple syrup. Stir well to blend flavors. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Just before serving, add ginger ale or sparkling water for fizz. Fill glasses with ice, pour in punch, and garnish with apple slices, orange slices, cranberries, and a cinnamon stick. Serve cold for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
Substitutions
Use dark rum instead of spiced rum for a richer flavor. Replace cranberry juice with pomegranate juice for variety. For a lighter option, use diet ginger ale or sparkling water. For a non-alcoholic version, skip rum and add extra cider and juice.
Equipment
Large pitcher or punch bowl
Measuring cups
Citrus juicer
Stirring spoon
Serving glasses
Storage
Refrigerator: Store punch (without sparkling water or ginger ale) up to 3 days. Add fizz just before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended, as carbonation and fresh fruit don’t freeze well.
Reheating: Not needed—this drink is best served chilled.
Top Tips
Chill all ingredients before mixing for the most refreshing punch. Adjust sweetness by tasting before adding maple syrup. Garnish generously to make it visually stunning. Serve in clear glasses to show off the colorful fruit and spices.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, mix everything except sparkling water and garnishes. Add them right before serving.
What’s the best rum to use? Spiced rum like Captain Morgan or Sailor Jerry adds warmth, but any good rum works.
Can I serve it warm instead? Absolutely—heat gently on the stove with cider and spices for a mulled punch.
How do I make this for a large crowd? Double or triple the recipe and serve in a punch bowl with a ladle.