Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This punch is quick and easy to make, yet full of seasonal flavors. The blend of black tea and apple cider creates a rich, flavorful base, while orange slices and cinnamon sticks add festive aroma and subtle spice. Sweetened naturally with honey, it’s versatile enough to enjoy hot on a crisp day or cold as a refreshing drink for parties. Its natural sweetness, bright citrus, and hint of spice make it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 orange, thinly sliced
1 apple, thinly sliced
3–4 cinnamon sticks, food grade
¼ cup honey, or to taste
2 cups unsweetened black tea
1 cup orange juice
1 cup apple cider

Directions

Serving Cold

In a pitcher or large punch bowl, add the orange slices, apple slices, and cinnamon sticks.
Pour in the honey, black tea, orange juice, and apple cider. Stir thoroughly until combined.
Serve over ice in glasses.

Serving Hot

Slow Cooker Method:

Place black tea, apple cider, orange juice, and honey in the slow cooker on high.
Once heated, reduce to the keep-warm setting.

Stovetop Method:

Place black tea, apple cider, orange juice, and honey in a large pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Ladle into heat-safe glasses and garnish with fresh orange and apple slices and cinnamon sticks.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1 liter (about 4–5 cups)
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (hot method slightly longer)

Variations

Extra Spices: Add cloves, nutmeg, or star anise for a richer autumn flavor.
Fruit Additions: Include pears, cranberries, or pomegranate seeds for more color and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir well before serving.
For a hot serving, reheat gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I make this punch ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a few hours in advance. Chill if serving cold, or keep warm if serving hot.

2. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely. Add more or less honey according to your taste preference.

3. Can I use pre-brewed tea bags?

Yes, simply brew black tea and let it cool before mixing with the other ingredients.

4. Can this punch be frozen?

It’s not recommended to freeze this punch due to the citrus and fresh fruit, which may change texture.

5. Can I serve it without apple cider?

Yes, you can replace apple cider with additional orange juice or a mild fruit juice.

6. Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add extra cinnamon sticks, a pinch of nutmeg, or a slice of fresh ginger while simmering.

7. How long can it stay hot on the stove?

Use low heat or a slow cooker on the keep-warm setting. It’s best consumed within a few hours.

8. Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes, frozen apple or orange slices can be used. Allow them to thaw slightly or add directly to hot punch.

9. How can I make this punch more festive?

Garnish with fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or a twist of orange peel for holiday presentation.

Conclusion

Sweet Tea Harvest Punch is a versatile and delightful beverage, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. Its combination of black tea, apple cider, orange juice, honey, and warm spices provides a harmonious balance of sweetness, tartness, and subtle spice. Serve it hot to warm up or chilled over ice for a refreshing treat. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this punch is a go-to drink that brings festive flavors and comforting warmth to any occasion.

Sweet Tea Harvest Punch

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A cozy, versatile beverage combining black tea, apple cider, orange juice, honey, and warm spices. Can be served hot or cold, perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights, or festive occasions.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0–10 minutes (depending on method)
Total Time: 5–15 minutes
Yield: 1 liter (4–5 cups)
Category: Beverage
Method: Mixing, Hot or Cold
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1 orange, thinly sliced

1 apple, thinly sliced

3–4 cinnamon sticks, food grade

¼ cup honey, or to taste

2 cups unsweetened black tea

1 cup orange juice

1 cup apple cider

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Instructions

Serving Cold

In a pitcher or large punch bowl, add the orange slices, apple slices, and cinnamon sticks.
Pour in the honey, black tea, orange juice, and apple cider. Stir thoroughly until combined.
Serve over ice in glasses.

Serving Hot

Slow Cooker Method:

Place black tea, apple cider, orange juice, and honey in the slow cooker on high.
Once heated, reduce to the keep-warm setting.

Stovetop Method:

Place black tea, apple cider, orange juice, and honey in a large pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Ladle into heat-safe glasses and garnish with fresh orange and apple slices and cinnamon sticks.