Candy Cane Christmas Punch combines cranberry, pineapple, and peppermint for a refreshing holiday drink. The fizzy ginger ale and vibrant garnishes make it the perfect beverage for Christmas celebrations.
This Candy Cane Christmas Punch is the ultimate holiday refreshment, bringing a burst of cranberry, pineapple, and peppermint flavors with each sip. It’s a festive and easy drink to prepare, complete with garnishes that capture the holiday spirit in every glass!
INGREDIENTS
- Cranberry juice: 4 cups, for a tart, refreshing base.
- Pineapple juice: 2 cups, adds tropical sweetness to balance the tartness.
- Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda: 2 cups, for a fizzy, festive touch.
- Peppermint syrup or candy cane-flavored syrup: 1/2 cup, infuses a minty holiday flavor.
- Orange juice: 1 cup, for added citrusy brightness.
- Lime juice: 1/2 cup, freshly squeezed for a zesty finish.
- Small candy canes: 6-8, to garnish each glass with a peppermint touch.
- Crushed ice: to keep the punch chilled and refreshing.
- Fresh cranberries, orange slices, and mint: optional garnish for a colorful, festive look.
- Optional Add-Ons: 1 cup vodka or white rum (for an adult version) and crushed peppermint sticks or candy canes to rim the glasses.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare the Base
- In a large punch bowl or pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, pineapple juice, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir well to mix all the juices together.
- Step 2: Add Peppermint Syrup
- Stir in the peppermint syrup (or candy cane syrup) for a subtle minty freshness, perfect for holiday vibes.
- Step 3: Add the Fizz
- Right before serving, pour in the ginger ale (or lemon-lime soda) to give the punch a fizzy, festive sparkle.
- Step 4: Garnish and Decorate
- Add crushed ice to each glass before serving. Garnish with candy canes hanging off the side of the glasses for a decorative touch. Optionally, add fresh cranberries, orange slices, and mint leaves to the punch bowl for extra color and flavor.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- For a festive presentation, crush candy canes and rim your glasses by dipping the rims in water or juice, then pressing them into crushed candy cane pieces. Serve cold and enjoy the holiday cheer!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this punch immediately after adding the soda for the best fizz. If making in advance, combine all juices and peppermint syrup, then add soda just before serving.
- To keep the punch cold without dilution, add frozen cranberries or make ice cubes using cranberry juice.
Helpful Notes
- Rimming glasses with crushed candy cane adds a festive touch and extra peppermint flavor. Simply dip the glass rim in water, then press into crushed candy cane pieces.
- For a more pronounced peppermint flavor, add an extra splash of peppermint syrup or drop a small candy cane into each glass to dissolve as you sip.
- Optional: Add a splash of vodka or white rum for an adult-friendly holiday punch.
Tips from Well-known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using fresh-squeezed lime juice for a burst of citrus freshness that brightens the punch.
- Chef Martha Stewart suggests garnishing with fresh cranberries and mint for an extra festive look.
- Chef Bobby Flay likes to add a touch of grenadine for a richer red color and layered flavor.