Christmas Holiday Punch (Optionally with Alcohol): Recipe

Prepare this traditional Christmas punch to enjoy with family and friends. I offer you a delightful hot version with tonic or ginger ale. You have the option to prepare a variant with alcohol—add rum, vodka, or brandy—or leave it non-alcoholic for all to enjoy, including children or those abstaining from alcohol, a consideration we should always keep in mind. This wonderful drink can be served hot or cold with ice according to your preference. It undeniably adds to the festive spirit of the Christmas holidays, complementing the atmosphere, fostering well-being, and embracing the winter season by providing a delightful warmth.

Recipe

Ingredients in this recipe

• 1 liter of cranberry juice
• 1 liter of apple juice
• 1 liter of sparkling water, tonic, or ginger ale
• 1 cup of orange juice
• 1/4 cup of lemon juice
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar or to taste
• 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• Orange slices and cranberries for garnish
• Optional for alcoholic version: rum, vodka, or brandy

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

• In a saucepan, mix cranberry, apple, orange, and lemon juice.

Step 2

• Add sugar and stir until completely dissolved. Adjust the sugar to taste, knowing that everyone can sweeten their punch later.

Step 3

• Add whole cloves and cinnamon sticks. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to boil, then reduce the heat. Cook for approximately 20 minutes to allow the flavors and aromas to meld well.

Step 4

• Set the punch pot aside from the stove. You can let it cool or serve the hot punch shortly.

Step 5

• Before serving, add sparkling water or tonic. If preparing an alcoholic version for adults, add rum, vodka, or brandy.

Step 6

• You can remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks, but some people like them in the glass.

Step 7

• Serve the Christmas punch hot, warm, or chilled in glasses with ice, depending on your preference.

Step 8

• Garnish with orange slices and cranberries for a nice look and additional flavors.

Christmas punch is simply perfect, whether hot or cold, with or without alcohol. What’s most important is that you have a wonderful time, ideally with your loved ones, enjoying moments of well-being and relaxation. So, what’s your favorite punch? Do you have a preferred variant? I’d be thrilled if you shared your punch recipe.