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This Christmas Morning Punch is a festive and refreshing cocktail perfect for holiday gatherings. It blends fruity juices with a splash of vodka and liqueur to create a vibrant punch that sets a cheerful tone for any celebration.
I first served this punch at a family brunch and was thrilled when everyone asked for the recipe. It has since become a holiday tradition in my home.
Ingredients
- Two cups cranberry-pineapple juice blend: which adds a fruity and slightly tart base—choose a high-quality juice for the best flavor
- One cup orange juice: fresh-squeezed or store-bought both work but fresh juice brightens the punch
- One cup lemon-lime soda: like 7Up or Sprite for sweetness and fizz—chilled is best
- Half a cup vodka: to give the punch a smooth kick—opt for a quality vodka for a clean taste
- Half a cup raspberry liqueur: which contributes a lovely berry sweetness—look for one with natural raspberry flavor
- Half a cup grenadine: for color and additional sweetness—classic pomegranate-based grenadine is ideal
- Ice: to chill the drink without watering it down too fast
- Fresh orange slices: for garnish adding color and a hint of citrus aroma
Instructions
- Scoop the Juices:
- In a 1.5-liter pitcher or punch bowl, pour the cranberry-pineapple juice blend and orange juice. Combining these juices creates the fruity foundation of the punch.
- Add the Fizz and Spirit:
- Slowly pour in the lemon-lime soda followed by the vodka. The soda adds sparkle and sweetness while the vodka provides an alcoholic warmth.
- Mix in the Raspberry Liqueur:
- Gently add the raspberry liqueur to the mix. This step layers in a berry flavor that deepens the taste and complexity of the punch.
- Sweeten with Grenadine:
- Pour in the grenadine and stir everything well. This beautiful red syrup offers sweetness and gives the punch its festive color.
- Chill and Garnish:
- Top the punch with plenty of ice cubes to keep it cold without diluting too quickly. Add fresh orange slices on top which bring a fresh aroma and visual appeal.
One of my favorite moments every Christmas morning is watching the punch bowl come to life with the bright colors and the scent of fresh citrus. The raspberry liqueur always makes me smile because it reminds me of my grandmother’s holiday parties when her punch was the star of the table.
Storage tips
Store any leftover punch covered in the refrigerator for up to two days but keep the soda separate until serving to maintain fizz. When ready to serve, gently stir and add fresh ice cubes.
Ingredient substitutions
Use pineapple juice instead of cranberry-pineapple blend for a sweeter tropical twist. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute vodka and raspberry liqueur with extra lemon-lime soda or ginger ale.
Serving suggestions
Serve this punch in clear glasses with festive straws or rim the glasses with sugar for an extra holiday touch. It also pairs wonderfully with breakfast pastries or light appetizers.
This festive punch brings holiday joy with every sip and invites fond memories around the table.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What juices are used in this drink?
A cranberry-pineapple juice blend combined with fresh orange juice forms the base of this punch.
- → Can the alcohol be omitted?
Yes, simply skip the vodka and raspberry liqueur for a flavorful non-alcoholic version.
- → What soda complements the flavors?
Lemon-lime soda like 7Up or Sprite adds a crisp, bubbly touch that brightens the drink.
- → How is the punch served?
Serve chilled over ice in a pitcher or punch bowl, garnished with fresh orange slices for a festive look.
- → What gives the punch its red color?
Grenadine syrup and raspberry liqueur contribute rich red hues and a touch of sweetness to the punch.