Apple LIT Punch

Make your next holiday gathering a LIT one by making the Apple LIT Punch from Haley Merritt, Lead Bartender at Midnight Rambler at The Joule.

The basic punch template gets a holiday makeover by swapping the standard base for a mix of rum and vodka. Next, you’ll want to add the season’s flavors, and for this recipe, it’s apples which includes apple brandy, apple simple syrup, and apple soda. 

Why the Apple LIT Punch works

Aged rum, vodka, and apple brandy are great solo acts in drinks. However, they also work harmoniously together as a base, creating a sturdy foundation that’s not overly sweet. Apple cider simple syrup and soda add sweetness, while lemon juice provides acidity and brightness. Finally, Angostura bitters lend a touch of nutty roundness to this cocktail. Note that the recipe calls for apple soda, but if you prefer no carbonation, try fresh apple juice instead. Also it calls for homemade apple cider simple syrup which you can replace with honey or agave. 

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“I love this cocktail because it is easy to make and can be made collaboratively. Last year, I set out the shot glasses and labeled the bottles with a corresponding number of shots, and it was done. A punch is much better than standing at the counter, micromanaging the cocktail-making. The Apple LIT Punch is super tasty, but not overly sweet and has just enough of a kick to get my karaoke rendition of Africa by Toto going.” – Gabe Sanchez, Cocktail Expert at Midnight Rambler at The Joule.

Apple LIT Punch

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• Author: Haley Merritt, Lead Bartender at Midnight Rambler at The Joule
• Yield: 6-8 1x

Ingredients

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• 2 oz Vodka
• 2 oz Apple Brandy
• 2 oz Aged Rum
• 2 oz Apple Cider Simple Syrup**
• 4 oz Lemon Juice
• 6 oz Apple Soda
• 8 dashes Angostura Bitters
• Optional Garnish – orange slices, apple slices and 3 Star anise pods.

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Instructions

Apple Cider Simple Syrup

1. Add ½ cup of Apple Cider to a saucepan.
2. Add ½ cup sugar to a saucepan.
3. Stir constantly over medium heat until combined.
4. Once bubbles form, take off heat and chill in an ice bath.
5. Transfer to a sealable container, label and date (good in the refrigerator for 7 days).

Apple LIT Punch

1. Add vodka, Apple Brandy, rum, apple syrup, lemon juice, and Angostura bitters to the punch bowl or Pitcher.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Fill ¾ full with ice cubes.
4. Add apple soda.
5. Garnish with orange circle slices, apple slices and 3 Star anise pods.
6. Serve in small punch cups or 6 oz glass filled with ice.