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Caramel Apple Cider Punch

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This easy large batch caramel apple cider punch is the ultimate fall party drink, blending cozy apple cider, creamy caramel, and warm spices for a crowd-pleasing treat. Serve it hot or cold for gatherings, holidays, or any autumn occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups apple cider
  • 1 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 6–8 whole cloves (optional, use tea infuser or cheesecloth for easy removal)
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional garnishes: whipped cream, caramel drizzle, cinnamon sticks, apple slices

Instructions

  1. Pour 8 cups of apple cider into a large pot or Dutch oven. Heat over medium until steaming but not boiling, about 8–10 minutes. (For slow cooker: set to ‘high’ and heat for 30–40 minutes.)
  2. Whisk in 1 cup caramel sauce and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Stir constantly until caramel is fully melted and mixture is creamy and blended, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 6-8 whole cloves (in infuser or cheesecloth if using), orange slices, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently.
  4. Let the punch simmer gently (do not boil) for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. (Can simmer on low for up to an hour if prepping ahead.)
  5. Taste and adjust: add more caramel for sweetness, or a splash of lemon juice or more cider if too sweet.
  6. Remove cloves before serving. Ladle hot punch into mugs or a punch bowl. Garnish with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, cinnamon sticks, and apple slices as desired.
  7. For cold punch: cool to room temperature, chill in fridge for 2–3 hours, and serve over ice with garnishes.

Notes

Do not let the punch boil, as this can cause the caramel to separate and spices to become bitter. Whisk the caramel in thoroughly for a smooth texture. For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy caramel sauce and coconut whipped cream. To spike for adults, add bourbon, spiced rum, or apple brandy just before serving. The punch can be made ahead and reheated gently. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple cider punch, fall party drink, apple cider punch, caramel apple punch, autumn punch, large batch drink, non-alcoholic punch, easy fall drink, party punch, holiday punch

Find it online: https://lemonydrinks.com/caramel-apple-cider-punch-recipe-easy-large-batch-fall-party-drink/