Chaider Rum Punch

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A Big Batch Cocktail for Big Occasions

As we enter into October, we enter into a time when there tend to be lots of gatherings. Over the next couple months there will be harvest dinners, Halloween parties, Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, and all the December holidays soon after. That's why I was excited when my friends at Koloa Rum asked me to work on a "big batch" cocktail for fall occasions; one that you can mix up easily in a pitcher, chill in the fridge, and use to serve a crowd.

I'll be the first to admit that I generally prefer to make cocktails to order. But sometimes (think Thanksgiving dinner chaos....) it's just not practical. Whether you have a bunch of people over, a bunch of other dishes to make, or both, a pitcher-style cocktail can be your best friend. This one unites sweet apple cider with cozy, spicy chai and will match all your fall menus.

Chaider Rum Punch Thanksgiving cocktail

Chai + Cider = Chaider

In case you haven't heard this term before, "chaider" is a delightfully cozy (and trendy) fall drink that unites two classic favorites: chai tea and apple cider. It has the best characteristics of both, and the sweet/spicy combination is so perfect. It's a great drink for when you can't make up your mind about which cozy beverage you want.

In this version, you'll brew strong chai tea and mix it into the punch. Since the chai is a flavor powerhouse in this recipe, make sure to use really high-quality loose-leaf chai with whole spices. I suggest decaf chai because presumably this is an evening-time beverage, and also because the combination of alcohol and caffeine can be weird for some people. Just remember that you'll need to cool the chai before adding it into the cocktail, so you'll want to think ahead a bit.

Chaider Rum Punch with a rum bottle

Variations

In the recipe card below, I give the proportions for a pitcher version that will serve 4-6 people. That's definitely the way to go for a party! But if you want to make just a single cocktail, you can easily adjust the proportions as follows:

  • 3-4 oz apple cider
  • 1.5-2 oz rum
  • 1-2 oz strongly-brewed and cooled decaf chai tea
  • 0.5 oz orange liqueur

Like many cocktails, this one is easy to vary based on your preferences (hence I've given ranges above rather than absolute measurements). Feel free to add another splash of rum for a boozier version or decrease the rum for a gentler version. We've also done this drink topped with ginger beer and it's a lovely, festive spin. If you have guests who want less alcohol, you can easily do a 50/50 mix of this punch and non-alcoholic ginger beer.

Festive Chaider Rum Punch

Let's Talk Ingredients

Here's what you'll need for this recipe, as well as some thoughts, tips, and possible substitutions. If you make any substitutions, I'd love to hear about it in the comments section below.

  • Apple cider
  • Rum. I'm of course smitten with Koloa Rum from Kaua'i! I love their Gold Rum in this recipe. Make sure you choose a light-colored rum so that the color of the apple cider shines through; a dark rum will make the cocktail a less appealing color.
  • Chai. This recipe will work best with an artisan, loose-leaf, decaf chai tea mix that contains whole spices including cinnamon, cloves, star anise, cardamon, and orange peel. Brew the chai strongly, then cool it completely before mixing the cocktail.
  • Orange liqueur
  • Garnishes. See the photos for inspiration. I love an abundantly-garnished drink for a festive occasion!

Chaider Rum Punch ccocktail for holiday parties

Closing Thoughts

Why choose one cozy fall beverage when you can have both?? This charming combination of spicy chai and sweet apple cider just feels so right for this time of year. Add in some rum and some festive garnishes and you have the perfect party-ready cocktail!

I'm already excited to make this one for Thanksgiving, it feels so special. I love that it's make-ahead friendly; it will feel great to have this sitting in a pitcher chilling in the fridge ahead of time, knowing that your beverage needs are all taken care of. Remember to scroll down to the official recipe card for the big batch version, or to scroll up to the "Variations" section for the individual version. Cheers!

Chaider Rum Punch rum cocktail with apple cider and chai tea

Share It!

It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.

Suggested Pairings

Maple Sea Salt Hummus

Spicy Ginger Sweet Potato Dip

Apple Cider Harvest Salad

Wild Rice Stuffed Delicata Squash

Chai-Spiced Pear Crumble Bars

Disclosure: This recipe has been developed through a paid partnership with Koloa Rum. However, all opinions and thoughts are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that keep The Rogue Brussel Sprout running.

Chaider Rum Punch

Bursting with sweet apple cider and cozy chai spices, this party-ready rum punch is perfect for all your fall occasions and even Thanksgiving. It's easy to make too!

Author:
Lee

Ingredients

"Big Batch" version serves 4-6

  • 3 c apple cider
  • 1 c rum
  • 0.75 c strongly-brewed and cooled decaf chai tea
  • 0.25 c orange liqueur
  • Orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and/or fall fruits for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a pitcher, combine the apple cider, chai, rum, and orange liqueur. Mix well and chill.
  2. When ready to serve, pour into punch glasses with ice.
  3. Garnish abundantly with orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and/or fall fruits.

Leave a Comment

Please Share Your Thoughts!

Did you make this recipe? Did you make substitutions? How did you serve it? Any helpful tips? Please share your thoughts, since these insights are really useful to both me and to other readers.

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Mariela Marrero
December 12, 2022
Your cocktails always look gorgeous and delicious! This one is definitely a tasty one.
Triss D
October 26, 2022
I’ve never heard of Chaider before what a great combo. Excited to try!
Suz
October 6, 2022
Lee, this cocktail is gorgeous and looks so tasty, too! I love the ingredients and they are perfect for fall 🍂🍁🥃