The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a flurry of festive gatherings and celebrations. One of the most iconic (and refreshing) drinks associated with this time of year is punch – but not just any punch! We’re talking about delicious, non-alcoholic delights that will quench your thirst and add to the merriment.
From classic combinations like apple cider and cranberry to unique twists featuring pomegranate, ginger, and more, we’ve rounded up 20 refreshing holiday punch recipes that are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. Whether you’re looking for something sweet and fruity, tangy and citrusy, or spicy and warming, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the flavors of the season, with recipes that are perfect for serving at holiday parties, gatherings with friends and family, or even just enjoying as a special treat. So grab your favorite mug, gather ’round the punch bowl, and get ready to toast the season in style!
Sparkling Cranberry Apple Punch
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and flavorful punch, perfect for serving at parties or as a festive drink for family and friends. This Sparkling Cranberry Apple Punch combines the sweetness of apples with the tanginess of cranberries and a hint of sparkle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– Sliced apples and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple juice, cranberry juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, add sparkling water to the pitcher. Stir gently.
5. Serve chilled and garnish with sliced apples and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 8-10 people
Winter Spice Citrus Punch
Warm up with a refreshing glass of Winter Spice Citrus Punch, perfect for the holiday season. This invigorating drink combines the flavors of citrus fruits, spices, and herbs to create a unique and delicious beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 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. Add the apple cider and ginger ale. Stir gently to combine.
4. Add the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir well to distribute spices evenly.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve cold, garnished with slices of citrus fruits.
Cooking Time: None
Pomegranate Ginger Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pomegranate Ginger Fizz, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year. This fizzy drink combines the sweetness of pomegranate juice with the spicy kick of ginger and a splash of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed ginger puree (see note)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh pomegranate seeds and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add ginger ale and stir gently to combine.
3. Stir in freshly squeezed ginger puree.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with pomegranate seeds and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Peppermint Berry Punch
Fresh and refreshing, this Peppermint Berry Punch is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a revitalizing drink any time of the year. With its cooling peppermint flavor and sweet berry notes, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sparkling water and mixed berries. Let it infuse for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle them gently with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
3. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir well.
5. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Orange Vanilla Cream Punch
Elevate your gatherings with this vibrant and refreshing punch, perfect for warm weather celebrations or casual get-togethers. This recipe combines the sweetness of vanilla with the tanginess of orange, creating a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cup vanilla-flavored cream soda
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Slices of fresh orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the orange juice, vanilla-flavored cream soda, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
4. Serve the punch over ice in glasses or a large bowl. Garnish with fresh orange slices.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few steps and no cooking required.
Lemon Lime Rosemary Cooler
Beat the heat with this zesty and herbaceous cocktail that combines the brightness of lemon and lime with the earthy flavor of rosemary. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the lemon-lime soda, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Add the lemon and lime juices, stirring gently to combine.
4. Add the chopped rosemary sprigs and stir again to distribute evenly.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional rosemary sprigs if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Grapefruit Honey Thyme Punch
Grapefruit Honey Thyme Punch: A refreshing and tangy drink perfect for warm weather gatherings or a pick-me-up any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grapefruit juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
– 1 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cups sparkling water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine grapefruit juice and honey syrup. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add fresh thyme leaves to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This will allow the thyme flavor to meld with the other ingredients.
3. Just before serving, stir in sparkling water.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply combine and chill.
Serves: 4-6 people
Cucumber Mint Sparkler
A refreshing twist on the classic spritzer, this Cucumber Mint Sparkler is perfect for hot summer days or as a light and crisp apéritif. With the cooling effects of cucumber and mint, you’ll be sipping in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine sparkling water, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the sliced cucumber to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, stir in the fresh mint leaves.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cucumber Mint Sparkler over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Pineapple Coconut Holiday Punch
Celebrate the holiday season with a refreshing twist on traditional punch! This Pineapple Coconut Holiday Punch is perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a sweet and tangy combination of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup coconut water
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– 1/4 cup shredded fresh coconut
– Slices of fresh pineapple, for garnish
– Sprigs of fresh mint, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, coconut water, and ginger ale.
2. Stir in simple syrup until dissolved.
3. Add shredded coconut and stir well.
4. Chill punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with slices of fresh pineapple and sprigs of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Cherry Vanilla Soda Punch
This refreshing soda punch is perfect for hot summer days or casual gatherings with friends and family. With its sweet and tangy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 2 liters of ginger ale
– 1 cup of cherry juice
– 1/2 cup of vanilla-flavored syrup (or 1-2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract)
– Sliced cherries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the ginger ale and cherry juice.
2. Add the vanilla-flavored syrup or pure vanilla extract to the mixture.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with sliced cherries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and chill.
Apple Cinnamon Cider Punch
Warm up with this delicious and refreshing Apple Cinnamon Cider Punch, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. This sweet and tangy punch combines the flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup cinnamon syrup (see note)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Slices of orange and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, cranberry juice, and cinnamon syrup.
2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pitcher.
3. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve cold, garnished with slices of orange and lemon.
Cooking Time: None! This punch is ready to serve once it’s chilled.
Note: To make cinnamon syrup, combine 1 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Gingerbread Spiced Punch
This delightful punch combines the cozy flavors of gingerbread with a hint of spice, perfect for gatherings and celebrations. With its inviting aroma and tangy sweetness, it’s sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6-8 whole cloves
– Sliced orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple cider, pineapple juice, and ginger ale.
2. Add honey syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Grate fresh ginger over the mixture and add cinnamon stick and whole cloves.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced orange.
Cooking Time: None! This punch is ready to serve as soon as it’s prepared.
Pear Cardamom Sparkling Punch
Celebrate the sweetness of pears with a refreshing twist! This sparkling punch combines the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), diced
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 whole cardamom pods, crushed
– 1 liter sparkling water
– Sliced fresh pear and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine diced pears, water, sugar, and crushed cardamom.
2. Let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or punch bowl.
4. Add sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Chill the punch for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with sliced fresh pear and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including steeping time)
Strawberry Basil Lemonade Punch
This sweet and tangy punch combines the flavors of fresh strawberries, basil leaves, and lemonade to create a unique and refreshing drink perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemonade
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced strawberries and fresh basil leaves.
2. Pour in the lemonade and water, stirring gently to combine.
3. If desired, add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the punch over ice and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Blueberry Lavender Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Blueberry Lavender Fizz, featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of blueberries and lavender.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/4 cup blueberry puree
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup lavender syrup (see note)
– Splash of sparkling water
– Fresh lavender buds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add blueberry puree and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Shake well to combine and chill the ingredients (about 15-20 seconds).
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with lavender syrup and a splash of sparkling water.
6. Garnish with fresh lavender buds.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Note: To make lavender syrup, combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and 1/4 cup dried lavender buds in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Hot Spiced Cranberry Punch
This sweet and tangy punch is perfect for the holiday season, offering a delightful combination of cranberries, spices, and citrus. Serve it hot to guests as a refreshing alternative to traditional eggnog or hot chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cranberry juice
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Slices of orange, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cranberry juice, water, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger to the pot. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain punch into individual mugs or a large serving pitcher. Garnish with slices of orange.
4. Serve hot, enjoying the warm and spicy flavors.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Raspberry Peach Iced Tea Punch
This sweet and tangy punch combines the flavors of ripe peaches, juicy raspberries, and refreshing tea, perfect for hot summer days or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) peach-flavored tea, brewed and cooled
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 cup peach puree
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Slices of peaches and raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea, raspberry puree, and peach puree.
2. Stir in the sugar until dissolved.
3. Add the water and stir well.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice with additional slices of peaches and raspberries for garnish.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled beverage.
Tropical Mango Pineapple Punch
Experience the taste of paradise with this refreshing punch, perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a tropical getaway.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup mango puree
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– Sliced fresh mango and pineapple for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, mango puree, and honey syrup. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add lemon-lime soda and orange juice. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Serve the punch over ice in glasses or a large bowl. Garnish with sliced mango and pineapple.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix, chill, and serve.
Chai Spiced Almond Punch
Elevate your gatherings with this unique and inviting punch, infused with the warm aromas of chai spices and the subtle nuttiness of almonds. Perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple juice
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1/2 cup brewed chai tea (cooled)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– Sliced almonds and star anise for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine apple juice, almond milk, and brewed chai tea.
2. Add honey and whisk until dissolved.
3. Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.
4. Chill punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced almonds and star anise.
Cooking Time: None (assemblage only)
Vanilla Chai Eggnog Punch
Warm up your holiday gatherings with this creamy and aromatic punch, infused with the flavors of vanilla chai and eggnog.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups eggnog
– 1 cup brewed chai tea (or 1 chai tea bag)
– 1/4 cup vanilla syrup (or 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Sliced almonds or nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine eggnog and brewed chai tea (or steep the tea bag in the eggnog). Stir until well combined.
2. Add vanilla syrup (or extract) and sugar to the pitcher. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Stir in cinnamon.
4. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with sliced almonds or nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your holiday gatherings with these 20 refreshing non-alcoholic punch recipes! From classic flavors like cranberry and apple, to unique twists like pomegranate and ginger, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a festive drink to brighten up your day, these delicious and easy-to-make punches are sure to please. From fruity fizzes to warm spiced ciders, discover new flavors to try this holiday season!