Discover the benefits of haymaker’s punch—also called switchel—a traditional, hydrating drink made with apple cider vinegar, ginger, and natural sweeteners. Refreshing, energizing, and easy to make, it’s the perfect healthy summer beverage.

🍋 Hydrating Haymaker’s Punch (Lemon Switchel) Recipe
Quench your thirst with this all natural Haymaker’s Punch, also known as switchel. This twist on a time-honored drink, (once a favorite of farmers), combines apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, grated ginger, and a touch of natural sweetness to create a refreshing, electrolyte-rich beverage. It's the perfect alternative to sugary sports drinks and a delicious way to stay hydrated on hot days.
🥄 What Is Haymaker’s Punch?
Haymaker’s Punch, also known as Switchel, is a traditional drink that was originally consumed by farmers and field workers to stay hydrated during long, hot days of work. It’s in essence the original sports drink.
This old-fashioned drink is made with a simple blend of apple cider vinegar, fresh ginger, natural sweetener (usually molasses), and water. It’s both refreshing and hydrating.
Switchel is a naturally hydrating alternative to sugary sodas and sports drinks. Whether you call it haymaker’s punch or simply switchel, this tangy, spicy, slightly sweet drink is a timeless warm weather favorite.

🥤 Why You'll Love This Haymaker’s Punch
- Gut Friendly: Ginger and lemon juice support digestion and soothe the stomach.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness with your choice of honey, maple syrup, or molasses.
- Quick & Easy: Made in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a refreshing drink or even a frozen treat.
🧂 Ingredients
For the full list of ingredients and directions, see the recipe card below.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Unpasteurized with the "mother" for maximum health benefits.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides a bright, tangy flavor and vitamin C.
- Fresh Ginger Root: Finely grated for a spicy kick.
- Sweetener: Choose from a combination of raw honey and molasses or maple and molasses for sweetness and depth.
- Water: Filtered water forms the base of this drink.
- Sea Salt: A pinch to replenish electrolytes.
- Goji Berries (optional) – For extra flavor, color and vitamin C.

🔪 How to Make Haymaker’s Punch – Step by Step
- Combine Ingredients: In a blender, add the grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, sweeteners, goji berries (if using) and filtered water.
- Blend: Blend on high until all ingredients are well combined.
- Refrigerate: Pour into a large glass container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids. Serve over ice and enjoy!
🍹 Variations – Customize Your Haymaker’s Punch
- Sparkling Version: Replace half of the water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
- Fruit-Infused: Incorporate fresh berries for a fruity flavor.
- Tropical Flair: Add a splash of pineapple or coconut water for a tropical twist.
💡 Tips for the Best Haymaker’s Punch
- Adjust Sweetness: Start with less sweetener and adjust to taste, as you can always add more.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and fresh grated ginger provide the best flavor.
- Strain Well: Straining removes solids, ensuring a smooth drink.
- Serve Chilled: This drink is most refreshing when served cold.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Haymaker’s Punch, or Lemon Switchel, is a delightful and healthful beverage that offers a natural alternative to commercial sports drinks. With its simple ingredients and customizable flavors, it's easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Whether you're looking to hydrate after a workout, cool down on a hot day, or enjoy a unique drink at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to please.
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Haymaker's Punch (Lemon Switchel)
Cool off with this tangy, sweet, and spicy haymaker’s punch. Also known as switchel, it's a natural, gut-friendly, and hydrating summer drink!
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup/ 80ml unpasteurized apple cider vinegar
- 3 Tablespoons/ 45ml fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz/14 g piece of peeled ginger root, coarsely chopped
- 2 Tablespoons/ 14g goji berries (optional)
- 1 Tablespoon/ 15ml dark or black strap molasses (optional, substitute honey or maple syrup if desired instead of the molasses for a lighter flavor.)
- 2 Tablespoons/30 ml raw honey (or substitute maple syrup for a vegan version)
- 4 cups/960 ml filtered water
- pinch of fine sea salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a high speed blender. Blend on high until combined.
- Pour into a large mason jar or glass container and cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- When ready to serve, pour through a fine mesh strainer and serve over ice.
Notes
(For Vegan use maple syrup instead of honey)
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 49Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 14mgCarbohydrates: 12gFiber: 0gSugar: 10gProtein: 0g
Nutritional information for recipes contained on this website, such as calories, fat, carbs, etc. are only estimates and are not guaranteed to be accurate.

Sylvie Shirazi is the recipe developer and food photographer behind Gourmande in the Kitchen. For the last 10 years she's been making eating more healthfully easy and accessible with gluten-free, grain-free, paleo and vegan recipes that are free from processed ingredients.
Aida Mollenkamp says
I make a homemade electrolyte drink but have never made a SWITCHEL! Going to have to try this.
Brian @ A Thought For Food says
First time hearing about switchels but I have had haymaker's punch and I'm a big fan. Love that apple cider vinegar and how it provides such wonderful zing.
This looks perfect for a big outdoor party on the Cape. Sure to be a huge hit.