Description
This Festive Spiced Holiday Punch with Citrus and Berries is a refreshing and vibrant non-alcoholic beverage perfect for holiday gatherings. Bursting with the natural sweetness of cranberry, orange, apple, and pomegranate juices, complemented by warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, this punch is brightened with fresh citrus slices and mixed berries. The addition of sparkling water or ginger ale adds a delightful fizz, making it an ideal festive drink to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Juices and Liquids
- 4 cups cranberry juice
- 2 cups orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 2 cups sparkling water or ginger ale
Fruits and Garnishes
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes for serving
Spices and Sweetener
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 3 star anise
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Combine the Juices. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the cranberry juice, fresh orange juice, apple juice, and pomegranate juice. Stir thoroughly to blend the juices evenly for a balanced base.
- Add Sweetener. If desired, sprinkle in the sugar and stir until it fully dissolves, ensuring the punch has the right level of sweetness to your taste.
- Introduce Spices. Place the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise into the juice mixture. These spices will infuse the punch with warm, festive aromas and flavors.
- Chill and Infuse. Cover the pitcher or bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, allowing the spices and juices to meld and develop a rich, complex taste.
- Add Sparkle. Just before serving, take the punch out of the fridge and gently stir in the sparkling water or ginger ale to add a refreshing, fizzy sparkle to the punch.
- Serve with Ice and Fruit. Fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour the spiced punch over the ice. Make sure to include a generous share of mixed berries and citrus slices in each glass for added flavor and festive presentation.
- Garnish. Top each glass with a slice of orange, lemon, lime, and a few fresh mint leaves to enhance the aroma and provide a vibrant, colorful garnish.
- Enjoy. Serve immediately to guests and enjoy the bright, warm flavors of this festive punch during your holiday celebrations.
Notes
- Adjust sugar to taste or omit for a less sweet, naturally flavored punch.
- For a stronger spice flavor, allow the punch to infuse overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for the best flavor; store-bought is an acceptable substitute.
- Substitute sparkling water with ginger ale for a sweeter, spicier fizz.
- To make this punch vegan and vegetarian-friendly, ensure all juices are pure and without animal-derived additives.
- This punch is a non-alcoholic option but can be spiked with your choice of spirits if desired.
