A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Yield: 12 to 16 drinks. Cinnamon-Honey Syrup: 1 cup honey 1 cup water 4 to 5 cinnamon sticks Punch: 4 cups store-bought or homemade spiced apple cider 2 cups cranberry

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Yield: 12 to 16 drinks. Cinnamon-Honey Syrup: 1 cup honey 1 cup water 4 to 5 cinnamon sticks Punch: 4 cups store-bought or homemade spiced apple cider 2 cups cranberry

Magnificent Mocktails: Winter Cider Punch

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Rocks glass of winter cider punch

Yield: 12 to 16 drinks.

Cinnamon-Honey Syrup:
1 cup honey
1 cup water
4 to 5 cinnamon sticks

Punch:
4 cups store-bought or homemade spiced apple cider
2 cups cranberry juice
½ cup cinnamon-honey syrup
½ cup lemon juice
Lemon slices (for garnish)
2 cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
Ice (depending on variation)

For the cinnamon-honey syrup: Combine honey and water in a small pot and bring to a gentle simmer. Once a foam starts to form at the surface, remove from heat and add cinnamon sticks. Let steep for 1 hour before straining into an air-tight container or squeeze bottle. Syrup will keep up to 2 weeks in refrigerator.

For the punch: To serve cold, combine all ingredients in a large punch bowl and garnish with lemon slices and cinnamon sticks. Ladle punch over ice and garnish with a thin lemon slice.

Hot variation: To serve warm, combine all ingredients in a crockpot on low heat with lemon slices and cinnamon sticks. Serve in heat-proof cups garnished with a thin lemon slice.

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Proof Alliance NC does not endorse any specific brand of beverages. We advise caution when selecting products labeled as non-alcoholic mixers and drinks, as some may contain trace amounts of alcohol. Please read labels carefully and make informed choices.

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This story was published on Nov 13, 2024

Mark Weddle

Mark Weddle began his bartending career in 1994 in Greensboro and is widely regarded as one of North Carolina’s top mixologists. His passion for classic cocktails, local ingredients, and exceptional guest service is matched by his energy, enthusiasm, and love of collaboration. He currently continues to hone his skills at 1618 West Seafood Grille in Greensboro.