Superstar Party Punch

‘Tis the season for parties…and a lot of food and drink. Last week, at our annual cookie party, I found myself in a minor bind to come up with some kind of creative beverage. I wanted something festive but non-alcoholic, warm and comforting, but a little different. Mulled wine was out (due to Andy Tyson’s absence) and Bailey’s hot chocolate was just to rich to serve at a cookie party. That is when Superstar Part Punch walked into my life and took over the party. We’ve tested it twice and people loved it; really they loved it. Punch is usually really easy to make, and this one is no exception prepped and ready in a snap. The best part is that there is no extra sugar added, which is better for you and tastes more like real fruit than super sticky holiday cheer that is so common.

• 1 large apple
  
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 4 cups apple juice
  
• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 1 lemon
• 2 cinnamon sticks

1. Slice apples into wedges and spike wedges with whole cloves.
   
2. Cut ribbons of peel off the lemon, set aside. Juice the lemon and reserve the juice.
   
3. In a large pot, combine all the juices, cinnamon sticks, lemon peels, and apple wedges.
4. Heat until warm, do not boil. reduce heat to low when hot and serve as needed. To replenish, add more juice; no need to replace the cinnamon sticks or apple wedges.

Variations

I think Andy would love this with rum…if you’d like to spike it, experiment at your own risk…remember adding a bit more is easier than trying to compensate for too much. Maybe add ½ cup of your favorite rum to start out.

Replace pineapple juice with cranberry juice.

Use mandarin orange wedges instead of or in addition to apple wedges…spike them with cloves as well.