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Holiday Punch

Holiday Punch
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This vibrant Holiday Punch is a refreshing, festive drink perfect for any holiday gathering. Combining fresh citrus and cranberry juices with sparkling water, and optional spirits, it offers a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and bubbly flavors. Easy to make, visually stunning, and versatile with customizable variations, it suits all ages and holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Fruit Juices

  • Freshly squeezed orange juice – 3 cups
  • Cranberry juice (100% juice, no added sugar) – 2 cups

Sparkling Elements

  • Sparkling water or soda – 3 cups (or sparkling apple cider for non-alcoholic version)

Sweetener

  • Honey or simple syrup – 2 to 3 tablespoons (adjust to taste)

Fresh Fruit Garnishes

  • Orange slices – 1 orange, sliced
  • Lemon slices – 1 lemon, sliced
  • Fresh cranberries – ½ cup

Optional Spirits (Adult Version)

  • Rum or vodka – 1 cup

Optional Add-ins

  • Cinnamon sticks – 2 (for spiced version)
  • Star anise – 2 (for spiced version)
  • Pineapple juice – substitute for orange juice for tropical punch
  • Fresh rosemary or mint sprigs – for garnish and aroma

Instructions

  1. Prepare the fruit and juices: Freshly squeeze enough oranges to yield about 3 cups of juice. Measure out 2 cups of cranberry juice. Slice orange rounds and lemon wheels and gather fresh cranberries to use as garnish later.
  2. Mix the base: In a large punch bowl or pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, cranberry juice, and your choice of honey or simple syrup. Stir gently until the sweetener is fully dissolved, creating a balanced, tangy-sweet base.
  3. Add the bubbles: Slowly pour in the sparkling water or soda to maintain carbonation. Stir gently to blend all liquids without losing the fizzy quality of the punch.
  4. Include optional spirits: For an adult-friendly version, stir in 1 cup of rum, vodka, or your preferred liquor to add warmth and depth to the punch.
  5. Chill and garnish: Refrigerate the punch for at least one hour to allow flavors to harmonize. Just before serving, float the orange slices, lemon wheels, and fresh cranberries on top for a festive and visually appealing presentation. Optionally, add rosemary or mint sprigs and cinnamon sticks for extra aroma and holiday spirit.

Notes

  • Use chilled juices and sparkling water before mixing to prevent dilution from ice.
  • Freshly squeeze citrus fruits for the brightest and freshest flavor.
  • Prepare fruit garnishes in advance and keep chilled to speed up assembling.
  • Add sparkling water or soda last and stir gently to preserve carbonation.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually and taste before serving to achieve your preferred balance.
  • Leftovers should be stored refrigerated in a sealed container and consumed within 2 days.
  • Freezing the punch is not recommended due to carbonation loss; freeze leftover juice separately if needed.
  • For a warm punch, gently heat the mixture without alcohol on low heat without boiling to preserve fresh flavors.
  • The recipe is naturally vegan if plant-based sweeteners are used instead of honey.
  • You can prepare the juice base up to 24 hours in advance; add sparkling water and garnishes just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: holiday punch, festive drink, non-alcoholic punch, party punch, holiday beverage, cranberry punch, citrus punch

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/holiday-punch/