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This Christmas punch is always my go-to when family gathers for the holidays. It is fresh bright and so easy to pull together that even the kids can help. You get all the festive flavor without a drop of alcohol
Last Christmas my youngest niece helped stir in the star anise and she talked about it for days. Now every holiday she asks to be the official punch chef
Ingredients
- Cranberry juice: sweetened gives that rubyholiday color and brings a tart yet sweet base to the punch Look for a juice that lists cranberries as the first ingredient for best flavor
- Ginger ale: adds sparkle and a gently spiced sweetness Use a brand with real ginger for a little more kick
- Orange juice: brings citrus freshness and natural sweetness Freshly squeezed is best but a quality no pulp carton works too
- Lime zest: boosts the punch with a zingy bright aroma Always zest limes just before using to maximize the oils
- Cinnamon sticks: warm the punch and add cozy spice Choose whole sticks that are firm and fragrant
- Star anise: star shaped pods that give a delicate licorice note Use whole pieces that smell sweet and crisp
- Fresh thyme: gives a subtle herbal lift Make sure sprigs are bright green and not wilted
- Fresh cranberries: float on top and pop with color Choose firm deeply red berries for eye appeal
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Citrus:
- Zest your limes right onto a plate When you zest directly before mixing you get all those bright essential oils
- Mix the Punch:
- Pour cranberry juice orange juice and ginger ale into a big punch bowl Stir slowly so you keep the bubbles alive
- Spice It Up:
- Drop in cinnamon sticks star anise and the fresh thyme sprigs These infuse as they sit and make the kitchen smell fantastic
- Add Garnishes and Ice:
- Scatter in fresh cranberries and plenty of ice If you have festive shaped ice molds break them out now
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle punch into glasses and make sure everyone gets a little of everything from the bowl Sip and savor
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There is something magical about the way cinnamon and star anise scent the whole house I especially love the thyme in this recipe It gives a whiff of garden freshness that makes the punch stand out One year my son even wanted to plant thyme after helping with this punch
Storage Tips
Leftover punch keeps fine in the refrigerator for up to two days but the fizz is best on day one If you want to prep ahead mix everything except the ginger ale and add that just before serving to keep it bubbly
Ingredient Substitutions
No ginger ale No worries You can use lemonlime soda or sparkling water for less sweetness If you run out of thyme fresh rosemary gives a different but joyful holiday aroma
Serving Suggestions
Set out a few bowls of extra cranberries and citrus wheels for guests to garnish their own pour For an added showstopper prep an ice ring filled with frozen cranberries and orange slices to float in your punch bowl
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How Christmas Punch Became a Staple
Punch has roots in 17thcentury holiday gatherings when big batches of sharing drinks were a must This alcoholfree version honors those traditions and ensures everyone from toddlers to grandparents is included
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep Christmas punch cold during a party?
Chill all the ingredients beforehand and add plenty of ice or an ice ring just before serving for lasting freshness.
- → What can I use if I don’t have a punch bowl?
A large mixing bowl or pitcher works well. Just be sure to add enough ice to keep the drink chilled.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness of the punch?
Yes, add a splash of simple syrup to taste if you like your punch a bit sweeter.
- → What garnishes work well for this punch?
Fresh cranberries, lime zest, or a sprig of thyme add festive color and aroma. An ice ring adds a beautiful touch.
- → Is it possible to make this punch ahead of time?
You can mix the juices and spices ahead, but add ginger ale and ice just before serving to keep it fizzy and cold.