Can I make Christmas Punch (Alcoholic or Not) ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cranberry, orange, and lime juice mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the ginger ale (and alcohol, if using) just before serving to maintain its fizz and freshness.

What are the best garnishes for Christmas Punch (Alcoholic or Not)?

Fresh cranberries and orange slices are classic and beautiful. You can also add lime slices, pomegranate seeds, sprigs of fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch, or even a few cinnamon sticks. An ice ring with embedded fruit and herbs makes a stunning centerpiece.

What type of alcohol works best for Christmas Punch?

Vodka or white rum are excellent choices for a neutral base that lets the fruit flavors shine. For a more sophisticated touch, a splash of sparkling wine or prosecco can be added. Spiced rum can also provide a warm, festive depth. Choose your favorite based on your preference!

How do I make a large batch of Christmas Punch (Alcoholic or Not) for a party?

This recipe is already designed for multiple servings. Simply scale up the ingredient quantities proportionally for very large gatherings. You might need multiple punch bowls or large dispensers. Remember to add carbonated elements like ginger ale and ice just before serving to maintain quality.

Christmas Punch (Alcoholic or Not): 15 Festive Ideas for Your Holiday Table

Ingredients

6 cups (1.4 L) 100% cranberry juice, chilled
4 cups (950 ml) ginger ale or sparkling cider, chilled
2 cups (475 ml) orange juice, freshly squeezed and chilled
1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh lime juice, chilled
1/4 - 1/2 cup (60-120 ml) simple syrup (optional, to taste)
Optional alcohol: 1-2 cups (240-475 ml) vodka, white rum, or sparkling wine, chilled
Garnish: Fresh cranberries, orange slices, lime slices, fresh rosemary sprigs, ice (or ice ring)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: In a large punch bowl or pitcher, combine the chilled cranberry juice, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir well.
Step 2: Taste the mixture. If you prefer it sweeter, add simple syrup a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired sweetness. Remember that ginger ale will add additional sweetness.
Step 3: If making an alcoholic Christmas Punch (Alcoholic or Not), add your chosen spirit (vodka, rum, or sparkling wine) at this stage. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Just before serving, slowly pour in the chilled ginger ale (or sparkling cider). Stir very gently to preserve the carbonation.
Step 5: Add plenty of ice or an ice ring to the punch bowl. Garnish generously with fresh cranberries, orange slices, lime slices, and fresh rosemary sprigs for a beautiful, festive presentation.
Step 6: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Christmas Punch (Alcoholic or Not)! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, though the carbonation will diminish.

Notes

For a less sweet punch, opt for unsweetened cranberry juice and reduce or omit the simple syrup. For an extra chill without dilution, freeze some cranberry juice in ice cube trays and use those instead of regular ice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drinks
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 40 g
Sodium: 20 mg
Fat: 0.5 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 0.5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg