Description

A sophisticated, make-ahead spiced punch featuring bourbon, cranberry juice, apple cider, and fresh rosemary. Perfect for Super Bowl parties and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

64 ounces (1.9 liters) 100% cranberry juice
2 to 3 cups (480-720ml) Bourbon whiskey
2 cups (480ml) unfiltered apple cider
Zest of 2 large oranges
3–4 large sprigs fresh rosemary
3 cinnamon sticks
6–8 whole cloves
2 star anise
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 cup dried cranberries
Large ice cubes

Instructions

Wash oranges and zest them directly into a large pitcher, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Slice oranges into rounds or wedges and add them to the pitcher.
Lightly slap the fresh rosemary sprigs against the counter to release oils, then add them to the pitcher.
Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and black peppercorns to the pitcher.
Pour in the cranberry juice and apple cider, stirring to combine.
Add the bourbon (start with 2 cups for lighter punch, up to 3 cups for stronger). Stir well.
Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4-6 hours, to allow spices to infuse.
Just before serving, add dried cranberries and a large bowl of ice.
Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or simple syrup if needed.
Ladle into glasses, ensuring each serving includes rosemary and orange slices, and garnish with extra rosemary.

Notes

Slapping the rosemary is crucial to release essential oils. Use real cinnamon sticks, not powder, to avoid cloudiness. For a mocktail version, substitute bourbon with extra apple cider and add vanilla extract. Large ice cubes are recommended to prevent dilution. The punch tastes better after steeping for 24 hours.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Beverage
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 oz per serving
Calories: 180
Sugar: 25
Carbohydrates: 26

Keywords: Super Bowl recipe, game day punch, bourbon punch, cranberry cocktail, rosemary punch, holiday drinks, make-ahead cocktail, spiced cranberry punch