This Non Alcoholic Fall Harvest Punch is the perfect drink to celebrate all the cozy flavors of autumn. It’s filled with fresh apple cider, a splash of cranberry juice, and hints of cinnamon and orange that make every sip feel like a crisp fall day in a glass. The sparkling water adds a little bubbly fun without any alcohol, so everyone can enjoy it.
I love making this punch for get-togethers because it’s easy to whip up and looks so inviting in a big glass bowl with floating apple slices and cinnamon sticks. It’s a great way to have a festive drink that both kids and adults can share. Plus, I find it refreshing and just the right balance of sweet and tangy.
My favorite way to serve it is chilled with a handful of ice and a slice of fresh orange on top. It really brings out those fall flavors and makes the whole season feel even cozier. This punch always gets people smiling, and I’m pretty sure it’ll become a favorite at your table too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: This is the heart of the punch and brings that cozy fall flavor. If you can’t find fresh cider, you can use 100% apple juice, but fresh cider has a richer, spicier taste.
Cranberry Juice: I like using unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice to balance the sweetness of the cider. If you prefer less tart, use a bit of cranberry juice cocktail instead.
Ginger Ale or Sparkling Water: Ginger ale adds a subtle spicy sweetness and bubbles, but sparkling water works great for a lighter, less sweet option.
Orange & Fresh Cranberries: These add bright color and freshness. You can replace fresh cranberries with frozen ones—just rinse before adding.
Cinnamon Sticks & Rosemary: Cinnamon gives warm spice, and rosemary adds an herbal note that pairs beautifully with fall flavors. If you don’t have fresh rosemary, a small pinch of dried rosemary works but fresh is best.
How Do I Infuse Great Flavor Without Making the Punch Too Strong?
To get rich flavor from cinnamon and rosemary without overpowering the punch, gently muddle the rosemary and add whole cinnamon sticks instead of ground spices. This releases their aroma slowly and keeps the taste balanced.
- Place cinnamon sticks and rosemary sprigs in the punch.
- Use a muddler or spoon to press lightly on the rosemary to release oils.
- Let the punch sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour, so flavors blend but don’t get too intense.
- Remove cinnamon sticks after serving if you want to avoid strong spice over time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pitcher or punch bowl – I prefer a big one so you can easily mix and serve everyone.
- Long spoon or muddler – makes it easy to gently muddle herbs like rosemary for releasing their aroma.
- Measuring cups – for accurately pouring the juices and cider.
- Knife and cutting board – to slice the oranges for garnish.
- Glass serving glasses – to pour and garnish for each guest.
- Ice bucket or ice cubes – to keep the punch chilled and refreshing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding apple slices for extra fruitiness and texture—just float them in the punch.
- Use a splash of orange or lemon juice to add a citrus burst if you’d like more tanginess.
- Put in a few star anise pods for a fragrant, slightly licorice flavor that pairs well with fall.
- For a sweeter punch, stir in a little honey or maple syrup before chilling.
Non Alcoholic Fall Harvest Punch
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Punch:
- 3 cups fresh apple cider
- 2 cups ginger ale or sparkling water
- 1 cup cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to chill so the flavors can blend nicely. You can prepare it ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve, making it a stress-free festive drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing The Base:
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, pour in the fresh apple cider, cranberry juice, and ginger ale (or sparkling water). This mix creates a perfect combo of sweet, tart, and fizzy flavors for your punch.
2. Adding Spices and Aromatics:
Drop in the cinnamon sticks and fresh rosemary sprigs. Gently muddle the rosemary with the back of a spoon or muddler to release its wonderful aroma without overpowering the punch.
3. Adding Fresh Fruit:
Add the orange slices and fresh cranberries to the punch bowl. These will not only taste great but also add a lovely festive look to your drink.
4. Chill and Blend Flavors:
Give the punch a gentle stir, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time helps all the flavors blend beautifully.
5. Serving The Punch:
Before serving, add ice cubes to the punch to keep it cool and refreshing. Stir gently one last time.
6. Garnishing and Enjoying:
Pour the punch into individual glasses. Garnish each glass with a fresh sprig of rosemary, a slice of orange, and a few cranberries for a pretty, festive touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the seasonal taste!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well! Just rinse them under cold water to thaw slightly before adding to the punch so they don’t dilute the flavor as they thaw in the bowl.
Can I Make This Punch Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the punch and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours. Add ice and fresh garnishes just before serving to keep everything fresh and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftover Punch?
Store any leftover punch in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving again, and add fresh ice and garnishes for best taste.
Can I Use Sparkling Water Instead of Ginger Ale?
Yes! Sparkling water is a great option if you want less sweetness. For a bit more spice, ginger ale adds a nice zing but either works perfectly in this punch.