This Thanksgiving punch combines fruit juices with a quick homemade cinnamon syrup for a chilled holiday drink. It takes about 15 minutes of active work to put together. You just need to leave enough time for the syrup to cool before mixing everything.
Making a large batch drink saves time when you have people over for the holidays. You can prepare the juice mixture a day ahead and just add the soda right before it goes on the table.
Why this works
- Making the cinnamon syrup first ensures the sugar dissolves completely without leaving a grainy texture in cold juice.
- Stirring the juices together before adding the soda keeps the carbonation strong.
- Chilling the ingredients ahead of time means you need less ice, which prevents the punch from getting watered down.
Ingredients you'll need
- Cranberry juice: Use 100% juice rather than a cranberry juice cocktail for a tart flavor that balances the sweet syrup.
- Orange juice: Pulp-free orange juice works well to keep the punch smooth.
- Pineapple juice: Canned pineapple juice adds a mild tropical note. Give the can a good shake before opening.
- Lemon-lime soda: You can use Sprite, 7Up, or a generic store brand. Ginger ale is a good alternative if you want a subtle ginger flavor.
- Grenadine: This pomegranate syrup adds a deep red color and a little extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are in the recipe card below.
How to make it
Step 1: Make the cinnamon syrup
Combine the water, sugar, and cinnamon sticks in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove the pan from the heat and let the syrup cool. Take out the cinnamon sticks before using the syrup.
Step 2: Mix the juices
Pour the cranberry juice, orange juice, and pineapple juice into a large pitcher or punch bowl. Add the cooled cinnamon syrup and the grenadine. Stir everything together until well combined. Keep this mixture in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Step 3: Add soda and garnish
Right before serving, gently stir in the lemon-lime soda. Add fresh cranberries and orange slices to the bowl or pitcher for a festive look. Serve the punch cold over ice.
Serve it with
Serve this punch alongside your Classic Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe and a large bowl of Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing.
Storage and reheating
Store leftover punch in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soda will lose its fizz after a few hours, but the juice mixture will still taste good. You can freeze the juice base in ice cube trays to chill future drinks.
FAQ
Can I make this punch ahead of time?
Yes. You can make the cinnamon syrup and mix the juices up to two days in advance. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and wait to add the soda until right before serving.
Can I add alcohol to this punch?
You can add vodka, light rum, or sparkling wine to the punch bowl if you want an adult version. You can also leave the punch non-alcoholic and offer spirits on the side for guests to mix their own.
What can I use instead of cinnamon sticks?
If you do not have cinnamon sticks, you can stir one teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the sugar and water. Strain the syrup through a coffee filter after it cools to remove the ground spice.
