Description

Have you ever wondered what a witch’s brew might taste like if it was sweet, fruity, and totally sip-worthy? Picture a chilling punch that looks like it came straight from a haunted orchard, complete with apple slices pierced with gummy worms. Sounds like a magical potion, right? This Poison Apple Punch is the perfect Halloween drink—quick to make, bursting with apple flavor, and spooky enough to thrill your party guests.

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful, festive drink. Here’s what you’ll need, why each one matters, and some substitutions:

Fresh Ginger (4 thick slices, peeled): Adds a warm, spicy kick to the punch.
- Substitution: Use 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger for a milder flavor.
Apple Cider (6 cups): The base of the punch, providing sweet, tangy apple flavor and natural nutrients.
- Substitution: Use apple juice, but cider gives a richer, more authentic taste.
Orange Zest (from 1 orange, removed with a vegetable peeler): Adds bright, citrusy notes.
- Substitution: Use 1 tablespoon orange juice or dried orange peel.
Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon, removed with a vegetable peeler): Brings a fresh, zesty balance.
- Substitution: Use 1 tablespoon lemon juice or dried lemon peel.
Cinnamon Sticks (1 to 2): Infuses cozy, warm spice into the punch.
- Substitution: Use 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Whole Cloves (3): Adds a subtle, aromatic depth.
- Substitution: Use a pinch of ground cloves or allspice.
Red Apple (1, sliced into 8 wedges): Creates a spooky garnish when paired with gummy worms.
- Substitution: Use green apples for a tart twist or pear slices.
Gummy Worms (for garnish): Makes the apple slices look like creepy, wormy “poison apples.”
- Substitution: Use gummy snakes or candy eyes for a different spooky effect.
Sparkling Cranberry-Apple Juice (1 750-ml bottle): Adds fizz and a tart-sweet flavor.
- Substitution: Use sparkling apple juice or club soda with a splash of cranberry juice.
Cinnamon Whiskey (1 cup, optional): Gives an adult-friendly spicy kick.
- Substitution: Use bourbon, rum, or omit for a non-alcoholic version.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Apple cider is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making this punch a healthier choice than sugary sodas. The ginger and citrus zest add immune-boosting properties, while the spices create a cozy, fall vibe. The gummy worms and apple slices make it fun and kid-friendly, and the optional whiskey lets you tailor it for adults. These ingredients are easy to find and swap, making the recipe versatile and budget-friendly.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ginger

Peel 4 thick slices of fresh ginger and smash them with the flat side of a chef’s knife to release their flavor.

Tip: Smashing the ginger helps it infuse the punch better—don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Simmer the Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the smashed ginger, 6 cups apple cider, orange zest, lemon zest, 1-2 cinnamon sticks, and 3 whole cloves.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat (small bubbles should appear).
Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove the solids.

Tip: If you don’t have a sieve, use a slotted spoon to scoop out the spices and zest.

Step 3: Cool the Punch

Let the strained punch cool to room temperature (about 20 minutes).
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until chilled, or speed it up by adding a few ice cubes while cooling (then remove them).

Tip: Make this base a day ahead to save time on party day.

Step 4: Prep the Apple Garnish

Slice 1 red apple into 8 wedges.
Use a chopstick or skewer to poke a small hole through each wedge.
Insert a gummy worm into each hole, threading it through to look like it’s crawling out of the apple.

Tip: Choose firm apples to hold their shape and make clean holes.

Step 5: Finish the Punch

Add the 750-ml bottle of sparkling cranberry-apple juice to the chilled cider base in the pitcher.
If using, stir in 1 cup of cinnamon whiskey for an adult version.
Mix gently to combine.

Tip: Add the sparkling juice just before serving to keep the fizz lively.

Step 6: Serve

Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over.
Garnish each glass with a gummy worm apple wedge, letting it float or rest on the rim.

Tip: Use clear glasses to show off the punch’s golden-red color and spooky garnish.