Combine all ingredients together in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely. You can store this in the fridge for a few days – I keep the spices and rind in the syrup for flavor, but remove right before using.

Add the cranberries and water to a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the water is simmering and the cranberries are busting, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat. Use the cranberries in the punch and as garnish in the glasses.

Stir the ingredients together gently (the ginger beer will make it fizz!) and taste. All ginger beers can be different, so you may want to add more simple syrup or cider if yours is super spicy. You can also use ginger ale, but in that case you may want LESS simple syrup than what is called for. Serve the punch over crushed ice (this is important!) and garnish with the bursting cranberries.