Sparkling Apple Cider Punch (Printer-Friendly)

Crisp apple cider, citrus, and spices mingle in a delightful sparkling beverage, ideal for festive autumn celebrations.

# What You’ll Need to Cook:

→ Base

01 - 1 litre sweet, non-alcoholic apple cider
02 - 500 millilitres lemonade
03 - 250 millilitres orange juice
04 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or simple syrup, optional

→ Fruit & Aromatics

05 - 1 large apple, cored and thinly sliced
06 - 1 orange, washed and thinly sliced
07 - 3–4 cinnamon sticks
08 - 3 fresh rosemary sprigs

→ Finishing & Service

09 - 750 millilitres sparkling water, chilled
10 - Ice cubes, for serving

# Steps to Prepare:

01 - In a large pitcher, pour the apple cider, lemonade, orange juice, and maple syrup. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the sweeteners and citrus.
02 - Add the sliced apples, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, and rosemary sprigs to the pitcher. Gently stir to distribute throughout the punch.
03 - Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the flavours to infuse and meld.
04 - Just before serving, add the chilled sparkling water and plenty of large ice cubes. Stir gently to combine. Serve immediately for optimum freshness.

# Extra Cooking Tips:

01 - For best flavour, choose a fresh, high-quality apple cider without added preservatives. Adjust sweetness by adding more or less syrup to balance tartness.
02 - Large ice cubes or a single block help chill the punch without rapid dilution. For visual impact, add rosemary or cinnamon sticks to glasses before serving.
03 - To create an alcoholic version, substitute sparkling water with sparkling wine or add 250 millilitres of bourbon, brandy, vodka, or rum before serving.