Shimmering Halloween Apple Cider Punch

Directions

1. In a saucepan, stir together the apple juice, blackberry preserves, and brown sugar.
2. Add the black gel food coloring ⅛ teaspoon at a time, stirring until the liquid turns a deep black hue.
3. Drop in the cinnamon stick, star anise, and whole cloves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Take the pan off the heat and refrigerate the mixture until it is completely cold.
5. To serve, fill a glass about one-quarter full with the chilled black apple cider. Sprinkle in a pinch of edible gold shimmer dust, then top off with cold ginger ale. If using dry ice for a spooky effect, leave enough room in the glass for the bubbles to rise without overflowing.