Description
Celebrate the holiday season with a stunning Festive Cranberry Citrus Holiday Punch. This vibrant and flavorful drink combines the tartness of cranberry, the zest of citrus, and the warmth of holiday spices, making it the perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering. Whether served at family get-togethers or holiday parties, this punch is sure to leave a lasting impression!
Ingredients
Produce:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 4 tablespoons lime zest
- 5 sprigs fresh thyme
Baking & Spices:
- 6 whole star anise
- 6 whole cinnamon sticks
Drinks:
- 64 ounces sweetened cranberry juice
- 2 liters ginger ale
- 16 ounces orange juice
Instructions
-
Prepare the Garnish
- Rinse the fresh cranberries and set them aside.
- Using a zester, zest limes to collect 4 tablespoons of zest.
- Gather thyme sprigs, cinnamon sticks, and star anise for decoration.
-
Mix the Base
- In a large punch bowl, combine the cranberry juice and orange juice. Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors.
-
Add Flavorful Touches
- Add the lime zest, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and star anise to the bowl. Allow the mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes to infuse.
-
Add the Sparkle
- Just before serving, gently pour in the ginger ale. Stir slowly to preserve the fizz.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the punch into glasses and garnish with a sprig of thyme, cranberries, and a cinnamon stick. Serve chilled or over ice for the perfect festive touch.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the juice mixture a day in advance and refrigerate. Add ginger ale right before serving.
- Customizable: Add vodka, rum, or champagne for an adult version. For a low-sugar option, swap ginger ale with sparkling water.
- Serving Suggestion: Use ice molds with frozen cranberries and thyme for a stunning presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Holiday, Festive