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Cozy Friendsgiving Pumpkin Spice Punch: Best Fall Recipe

Cozy Friendsgiving Pumpkin Spice Punch - featured image

A warm, spiced, non-alcoholic pumpkin punch that comes together in under 15 minutes. Perfect for Friendsgiving, it’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups apple cider
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin)
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups ginger ale or sparkling apple cider
  • Orange slices (for garnish)
  • Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
  • Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the pumpkin slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of the apple cider with the 1 cup of pumpkin puree until completely smooth.
  2. Combine the base ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the remaining 3 cups of apple cider, orange juice, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until the brown sugar starts to dissolve.
  3. Add the pumpkin slurry: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the pot and whisk again until fully combined.
  4. Heat the punch: Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer (about 5-7 minutes). Stir occasionally.
  5. Simmer and blend flavors: Reduce heat to low and let cook for another 5 minutes, allowing spices to bloom.
  6. Taste and adjust: Adjust sweetness or spice to your preference.
  7. Prepare for serving: Remove from heat and let cool for about 5 minutes. If using a slow cooker, pour into the slow cooker and set to warm.
  8. Add the fizz and garnishes: Just before serving, pour in the ginger ale or sparkling apple cider and stir gently. Add orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Ladle into mugs or cups, ensuring each serving gets a cinnamon stick and a few cranberries.

Notes

Don’t skip the pumpkin slurry to avoid lumps. Keep heat medium-low to prevent scorching. For a boozy version, add 1 to 1 1/2 cups of bourbon, dark rum, or spiced rum before serving. The base can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin punch, Friendsgiving, fall drink, non-alcoholic, pumpkin spice, apple cider, warm punch