Spicy Apple Cider Punch is a warm and bold autumn-inspired cocktail that’s perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. It blends sweet apple cider with warming spices, fresh citrus, and a kick of bourbon (or spiced rum) for depth. Jalapeño or ginger adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness, making this punch a lively and comforting drink for fall and winter celebrations.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 16 oz Apple cider (non-alcoholic)
• 6 oz Bourbon or spiced rum
• 4 oz Orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
• 2 oz Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 oz Simple syrup or honey syrup (adjust to taste)
• 2–3 Jalapeño slices or 1 oz ginger juice (for spice)
• 1 Apple, thinly sliced
• 1 Orange, thinly sliced
• 2–3 Cinnamon sticks
• Optional: 2 oz Sparkling water or ginger beer (for topping)
• Garnish: Apple slices, cinnamon stick, or orange peel

Instructions:

Prepare the fruit and spice:

Thinly slice the apple and orange. Slice 2–3 thin rounds of jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat) or prepare fresh ginger juice.

Combine ingredients in a pitcher or punch bowl:

Add to the bowl:

• 16 oz apple cider
• 6 oz bourbon or spiced rum
• 4 oz orange juice
• 2 oz lemon juice
• 2 oz simple syrup or honey syrup
• Jalapeño slices or ginger juice
• Apple and orange slices
• Cinnamon sticks

Stir and chill:

Mix gently and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes to allow flavors to blend. For a stronger spice, let the jalapeños infuse longer.

Serve:

Pour into glasses over ice. For a fizzy version, top each glass with 1–2 oz of sparkling water or ginger beer just before serving.

Garnish:

Add a cinnamon stick, apple slice, or a twist of orange peel to each glass for a festive finish.