Hot Rosehip Punch
Tangy rosehip tea warmed with orange, cinnamon and honey for a bright, fruity alcohol-free punch that suits a crisp winter evening.
Ingredients
- 500 ml strong rosehip tea — or 60 ml rosehip syrup topped with hot water
- 1 orange — half juiced, half sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 tbsp honey — to taste
Method
- Brew the rosehip tea strong, or stir the rosehip syrup into freshly boiled water in a small pan.
- Add the cinnamon stick, the orange juice and a few orange slices, then warm gently over a low heat.
- Let it infuse for a few minutes without boiling so the orange and cinnamon mingle.
- Stir through the honey to taste, then ladle into mugs and serve warm.
How to serve
- Glassware
- Heatproof mug
- Serve temperature
- Warm, around 65°C
- Garnish
- An orange slice and cinnamon stick
Rosehip has long been a winter staple, its bright, tangy character lending itself beautifully to a warm punch. Here it is brewed strong and warmed with orange, cinnamon and honey, the citrus lifting the fruit while the spice adds cosy depth. It is a cheering, alcohol-free cup for a cold, clear evening.
Brewing for flavour
The depth of this punch rests on a good, strong infusion. If using tea, brew it a little stronger than you would for drinking on its own, since the orange and water will dilute it slightly. Rosehip syrup makes an easy shortcut, though it tends to be sweeter, so hold back on the honey until you have tasted the finished pan.
A bright, warming finish
Fresh orange does two jobs here, the juice adding tang and the slices perfuming the punch as they warm. Keep the heat gentle so nothing boils, preserving the lively fruit notes. Ladle into mugs with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice for a handsome serve. If you are gathering friends and want a spirited option alongside, a jug of Hot Apple Gin sits comfortably next to this fruity punch.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use rosehip syrup instead of tea?
Yes. Stir around 60 ml of rosehip syrup into hot water and adjust to taste. You may then need less honey, as syrups are usually sweetened.
Is rosehip punch tart?
Rosehip has a naturally bright, tangy character. The orange and honey soften it nicely, so add the honey gradually until the balance suits you.
Can I make it ahead for a crowd?
It scales well. Keep it warm in a pan over the lowest heat and avoid boiling, which can dull the fresh fruit flavours.
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