The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing glass of festive holiday punch? Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering at home or attending a party, these 20 deliciously refreshing punch recipes are sure to be a hit.
From classic wintertime flavors like cranberry and cinnamon to modern twists featuring pomegranate and ginger, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Many of these recipes can be made without any special equipment or ingredients, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining.
In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of our favorite holiday punch recipes, each one carefully crafted to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gatherings. So grab a glass and let’s get started!
Spiced Cranberry Orange Holiday Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this warm and inviting punch, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. This festive drink is sure to be a hit at any winter celebration.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, water, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon and nutmeg to the pot. Whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the punch into a large serving pitcher or individual cups. Garnish with citrus slices.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sparkling Pomegranate Ginger Punch
This refreshing punch combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the spiciness of ginger, perfect for a warm-weather gathering or any occasion where a fizzy drink is in order.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pomegranate juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves and pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice, ginger ale, and lime juice. Stir until well combined.
2. Add grated fresh ginger and ground cinnamon to the pitcher. Stir again to distribute evenly.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and pomegranate seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This punch is ready to serve immediately.
Cinnamon Apple Cider Holiday Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this deliciously warm and inviting punch, perfect for cold winter nights. This Cinnamon Apple Cider Holiday Punch combines the comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and spices to create a cozy and refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Slices of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider and boiling water.
2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and nutmeg. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat and let it steep for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Strain punch into a large pitcher or jug.
5. Serve warm, garnished with slices of orange.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peppermint White Hot Chocolate Punch
Warm up with this refreshing twist on traditional hot chocolate!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, skim or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, white chocolate chips, and butter.
2. Whisk over low heat until the mixture is smooth and the white chocolate has melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and salt.
4. If desired, add crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for an extra festive touch.
5. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Rum Punch with Nutmeg
Warm up with a festive twist on traditional eggnog: Eggnog Rum Punch with Nutmeg!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup eggnog
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine eggnog, rum, brown sugar, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, fill glasses with ice and pour the Eggnog Rum Punch over the ice.
4. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg on top.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is served chilled.
Winter Sangria with Citrus and Berries
This refreshing winter sangria is perfect for cozy gatherings with friends and family. With a balance of citrusy and fruity flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Pinot Grigio or Riesling work well)
– 1 cup mixed citrus juice (orange, grapefruit, lemon)
– 1/2 cup frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup honey
– Sliced orange and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine white wine, mixed citrus juice, and honey. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
2. Add frozen cranberries to the pitcher and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced orange and lemon.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Gingerbread Spiced Holiday Punch
Warm up your holiday gatherings with this delicious and inviting punch that combines the spices of gingerbread with a hint of sweetness. This recipe makes 8-10 servings, perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– Whipped cream or ice cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, pineapple juice, and simple syrup. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
2. Add the grated fresh ginger, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves to the pitcher. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a stronger flavor.
3. Just before serving, stir in the ginger ale.
4. Serve the punch chilled, with whipped cream or ice cream on top if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a beverage recipe!
Bubbly Champagne Cranberry Punch
A refreshing twist on traditional cranberry punch, this bubbly concoction is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup champagne (or sparkling wine)
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup triple sec (or orange liqueur)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of fresh orange, for garnish
– Fresh cranberries, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice, pineapple juice, triple sec, and simple syrup. Stir until the simple syrup is fully dissolved.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, pour in the champagne and stir gently to combine.
4. Serve the punch over ice in glasses and garnish with slices of fresh orange and a few fresh cranberries.
Cooking Time: None required! This punch is best served chilled.
Non-Alcoholic Tropical Holiday Punch
Bring a taste of the islands to your holiday gathering with this refreshing non-alcoholic punch!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/2 cup coconut water
– 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, orange juice, and grenadine syrup. Stir well to combine.
2. Add ginger ale and coconut water to the pitcher. Stir gently to avoid foam formation.
3. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Tropical Holiday Punch over ice in glasses or a large bowl for a festive gathering.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chilling)
Hot Mulled Wine Punch with Cloves
Warm up on a chilly evening with this spicy and sweet hot mulled wine punch, infused with the aroma of cloves.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Lemon slices and sprigs of rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the red wine, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
2. Add the brown sugar and water to the pot, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the punch mulled for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Strain the punch into a large pitcher or individual mugs before serving.
6. Garnish with lemon slices and sprigs of rosemary, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Frosty Peppermint Mojito Punch
Get ready to beat the heat with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito! This frosty peppermint punch is perfect for hot summer days, parties, or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups club soda
– 1 cup peppermint tea (cooled)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cooled peppermint tea, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the club soda and stir gently to combine.
3. Add the crushed ice and stir until the mixture is frosty and refreshing.
4. Add the peppermint extract and stir to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spiked Eggnog Punch with Bourbon
Add a touch of sophistication to your holiday gatherings with this creamy, bourbon-infused eggnog punch. Perfect for parties and get-togethers, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large punch bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, eggnog, simple syrup, and bourbon whiskey. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Cranberry Lime Sparkler Punch
Perfect for warm weather gatherings or holiday celebrations, this refreshing punch combines the tartness of cranberries with the brightness of lime and a splash of bubbles. Serve chilled and garnish with fresh lime wedges and mint sprigs for a festive touch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice and lime juice.
2. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
3. Add sparkling water and stir gently.
4. Chill punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add chopped mint leaves and stir gently.
6. Serve chilled over ice and garnish with fresh lime wedges and mint sprigs.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prep time only)
Warm Vanilla Chai Holiday Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this comforting and aromatic Warm Vanilla Chai Holiday Punch. Perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a special treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed chai tea (black tea blend)
– 1 cup vanilla-flavored milk (or half-and-half)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Fresh mint leaves and cranberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine brewed chai tea, vanilla-flavored milk, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
2. Whisk until the sweetener is dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it warm through for 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in whipped heavy cream just before serving.
6. Ladle into mugs or cups and garnish with fresh mint leaves and cranberries, if desired.
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Serves: 8-10
Pineapple Coconut Rum Punch
A refreshing tropical drink perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions. This punch combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut and a hint of rum, making it a delightful treat for adults.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup dark rum (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of fresh pineapple and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, coconut milk, and rum. Stir well to combine.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the punch over ice in tall glasses and garnish with fresh pineapple and cherry slices.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a cold beverage.
Spiced Pear and Honey Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this warm and inviting Spiced Pear and Honey Punch. This sweet and spicy drink is perfect for the winter season, combining the flavors of ripe pears, aromatic spices, and a touch of honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sliced pears, water, apple cider, and honey. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pears are tender.
3. Add cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Strain the punch into a large pitcher or individual cups. Serve warm, garnished with additional sliced pears and a sprinkle of spices if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cherry Vanilla Holiday Punch
Start your holiday gatherings off right with this refreshing and festive punch recipe, perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry juice (such as Cherry 7-Up or Cherry juice)
– 1 cup vanilla-flavored soda
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
– 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cherry juice and vanilla-flavored soda. Stir well to combine.
2. Add pineapple juice and stir gently.
3. Pour in grenadine syrup and stir again.
4. Top with lemon-lime soda and stir once more.
5. Chill punch in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with slices of orange, lemon, and lime.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Serves 8-10 people
Hot Buttered Rum Punch
Warm Up with Hot Buttered Rum Punch!
This classic winter cocktail combines the comfort of hot buttered rum with the festive cheer of a punch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire, this recipe serves 8-10 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rum
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine rum, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add apple cider and pineapple juice to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Ladle into mugs or cups. Garnish with citrus slices.
5. Serve hot, with a cinnamon stick for added festivity.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sparkling Cranberry Rosemary Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and flavorful punch, perfect for warm winter nights or special celebrations. The combination of cranberries, rosemary, and sparkling water creates a unique and delightful taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 2 sprigs of rosemary, chopped
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges and rosemary leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice, sparkling water, lime juice, and honey syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the chopped rosemary to the pitcher and stir gently.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
4. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Citrus and Thyme Holiday Punch
Add a touch of warmth and zest to your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and fragrant punch. Perfect for a festive cocktail party or a cozy family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
– Slices of orange, grapefruit, and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the orange and grapefruit juices.
2. Add the honey syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the lemon-lime soda and sparkling water.
4. Add the dried thyme leaves and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the punch into individual glasses or a large serving bowl.
6. Garnish with citrus slices and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a non-cooked recipe!
Summary
Get ready to toast the season with these 20 festive holiday punch recipes! From classic wassail to creative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Spiced cranberry orange and sparkling pomegranate ginger punches offer warm and tangy flavors, while cinnamon apple cider and peppermint white hot chocolate add a cozy touch. For adults, eggnog rum and spiked eggnog punch with bourbon bring a grown-up twist. And don’t forget non-alcoholic options like tropical holiday punch and warm vanilla chai for all to enjoy. Cheers to a merry and bright holiday season!
