Apple Cider Rum Punch

It would be a shame to reserve rum punch only for the summer months and warm days at the beach. At least that’s what I think, anyway. 

Although, it doesn’t feel like the right time of year to have the refreshing fruity flavor that usually comes along with the drink. 

So I felt like I needed to come up with something that says fall, but with rum. 

I started with apple cider. 

Then I grabbed the Appleton rum, because Jamaican rum is my favorite. I’ve also had some Spiced Pear Brandy by St. George Spirits that I’ve been wanting to use. It is excellent by the way. I plan to make it a holiday purchase every year from here on out. 

It ended up giving the drink just the amount of seasonal spice that it needed. Orange bitters added a punch-y flavor. Not to mention I just really like using bitters in everything. 

There are several different directions you can go with this drink. 

Option 1:  Chill it and serve it as is, like a martini-ish cocktail. As I have pictured. 

Option 2: Serve it on the rocks.

Option 3: Serve it on the rocks and top it with club soda to give it a sparkling character.

I’m the first to admit that while tasty, it is pretty sweet. But that also makes it a great treat for the holiday season. 

Oh, and you can garnish it with a few fresh cranberries, BUT it’s even better with a few of my Spiced Bourbon Soaked Cranberries! 

What you’ll need:

4 cups apple cider
1 cup Jamaican rum
1/4 cup spiced brandy or liqueur 
Few dashes of orange bitters
Cranberries for garnish

How to make it:

Pour all ingredients (except the cranberries) into a large pitcher. Stir well. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until chilled. 

Let’s connect outside the blog! You can find my images and everyday food, travel, and fun on Instagram. My current favorite things (all things fall at the moment!) are on Pinterest as well as updates and shares on Twitter and Facebook.