Harvest Moon Cider Punch
One pitcher, two ways. With bourbon it is the easy autumn drink for the adults; with strong black tea in its place it keeps the same amber colour and depth and everyone can have a glass. Either way it takes five minutes and nobody needs a shaker. The lemon is what keeps it bright, so do not leave it out.
What you'll need
- 6 cups apple cider, chilled (1.4 L)
- 2 cups bourbon, or cooled black tea for the alcohol-free pitcher (480 ml)
- 0.5 cup fresh lemon juice (120 ml)
- 0.25 cup maple syrup (60 ml)
- 3 cups ginger beer, chilled (720 ml)
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 2 cups strong black tea, brewed and cooled, in place of the bourbon (480 ml)
- 1.5 oz bourbon or cooled black tea (45 ml)
- 4 oz apple cider (120 ml)
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (5 ml)
- 2 oz ginger beer (60 ml)
How to make it
Combine the cider, the bourbon or the cooled tea, the lemon juice and the maple syrup in a large pitcher or punch bowl and stir until the maple has dissolved.
Refrigerate for at least an hour so it is properly cold.
Add the apple slices and cinnamon sticks, pour in the ginger beer, and stir once. Serve over ice.
Glass: Rocks glasses or small mugs. Garnish: A fan of apple slices and a cinnamon stick in each glass.
Chef's secrets
Use a spicy ginger beer rather than ginger ale; the punch needs the bite.
Toss the apple slices in a little of the lemon juice so they stay pale.
Good to know
The base (everything except the ginger beer and apples) keeps in the fridge for two days. Slice the apples and add the ginger beer just before serving.