Kinderpunsch

December is here and that means the weather’s getting cold and after the kids come in after playing outside they’re looking for something warm and comforting to drink. This Kinderpunsch recipe is one we’ve made in our family for years – it’s our version of the traditional German kids punch that’s alcohol-free and made with herbal fruit tea, natural juices, and spices.

In Germany and Austria around the holidays it’s traditional for the adults to enjoy Gluwein or mulled wine at Christmas markets and other gatherings. The kids (and others who don’t drink alcohol) enjoy Kinderpunsch, and we’ve had the pleasure of enjoying it in Germany, Austria and even Hungary during the holidays! It’s a hot drink recipe we’ve made at home time and again, and I know you’re going to love it as much as we do!

• 4 cups natural apple juice
• 2 cinnamon sticks whole
• 3 cloves whole
• 1 small star anise whole
• 4 cups hot water
• 2 fruit-flavoured herbal tea bags or use hibiscus and fruit-flavoured tea bags for a more traditional flavour
• 2 cups orange juice
• 2 cups cranberry juice or use cherry juice for a more traditional flavour
• apple slices and cranberries for garnish