Description
A festive, four-ingredient bourbon apple cider punch that is easy to scale and perfect for game day. Simmered with whole spices in a slow cooker, it offers a cozy, autumnal flavor that appeals to both drinkers and non-drinkers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 gallon (3.8 liters) fresh-pressed apple cider
- 2 cups (480ml) bourbon
- 6–8 large cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup (240ml) orange juice
- 2–3 star anise pods
- 6–8 whole cloves
- Optional: Thin apple slices for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse whole spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise) under cold water to remove dust.
- Pour the apple cider into a slow cooker or large stockpot.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise to the cider.
- If using a stove-top method, bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat; do not boil. If using a slow cooker, set to LOW.
- Simmer the spiced cider for 30-60 minutes to infuse flavors. For deeper flavor, simmer for 2-3 hours.
- Stir in the bourbon and orange juice.
- If using a slow cooker, let it sit on LOW for another 15-20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or strength with more cider or orange juice if needed.
- Serve hot in mugs or heat-proof glasses, optionally garnished with thin apple slices.
Notes
Use whole spices only to avoid a gritty texture. Do not boil the bourbon to preserve flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and add extra cider or vanilla extract. Store leftover punch (without alcohol) in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 20
- Carbohydrates: 22
Keywords: football tailgate, bourbon punch, apple cider, game day drink, slow cooker recipe, autumn cocktail, warm drink, four ingredient recipe