Spiced Apple Punch

If the weather’s poor, or roadblocks beckon this New Year’s Eve, this hot, non-alcoholic punch is a delicious alternative to the usual boozy beverages. Ladling it from a large slow cooker will keep it warm in your punch glass.

This recipe can be made in a slow cooker

Spiced Apple Punch:

2 tsp. (10 mL) whole allspice     

2 tsp. (10 mL) whole cloves     

Two 3-inch (8 cm) cinnamon sticks                 

2 oranges, unpeeled, thinly sliced

2 lemons, unpeeled, thinly sliced

8-to-10 qt. (8-to-9.5 L) apple juice (see Note)

¼ tsp. (1.2 mL) ground nutmeg 

Tie whole spices in small cheesecloth bag. Add to remaining ingredients,  simmering 30 min. or longer, until desired favor is reached. Remove fruit and spices before serving. Float a few orange and lemon cartwheels on punch, as garnish.

Note: If you like this recipe, you may also enjoy my Non-Alcoholic Mulled Apple Juice.