This festive Holiday Spiked Punch Cocktail is a cheerful mix of fruity flavors, perfect for celebrations! With a splash of your favorite spirits, it adds joy to any gathering.
Ready to be the life of the party? Just mix it up in a big bowl, and you’ll have a delicious drink that everyone will love. I always make extra just in case! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: This adds a tart and refreshing flavor. If you want to cut down on sugar, look for 100% cranberry juice or make your own. You could also use pomegranate juice for a twist!
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice makes the punch bright and flavorful. In a pinch, you can use store-bought juice, but choose one without added sugars for better taste.
Vodka or Spiced Rum: Vodka keeps the flavor light, while spiced rum adds warmth. Feel free to swap these for gin or even a flavored vodka for a unique twist!
Triple Sec or Orange Liqueur: This adds sweetness and depth. If you’re in a bind, you can also use a splash of orange soda or omit it for a lighter version.
Simple Syrup: You can make your own by heating equal parts sugar and water until dissolved. For a healthier option, consider using honey or agave syrup, adjusting the amount to your taste.
How Do You Rim Glasses with Sugar?
Rimming the glasses adds a decorative and tasty touch to your punch. It’s super easy! Here’s how to do it:
- Cut a fresh orange into wedges. Rub the juicy side of the wedge around the rim of your glass.
- Pour some sugar onto a plate. Dip the rim of the glass into the sugar to coat it evenly.
- Shake off any excess sugar, and your glass is ready for pouring!
This small step really elevates your presentation and adds a touch of sweetness!
Holiday Spiked Punch Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 cup vodka or spiced rum
- 1/2 cup triple sec or orange liqueur
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Sliced oranges for garnish
- Ice cubes
- Sugar, for rimming the glasses (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and is ready to enjoy right away! It’s the perfect drink to whip up when you have guests arriving for holiday celebrations.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glasses:
Start by preparing the glasses you’ll serve the punch in. Take a slice of orange and rub the juicy side around the rim of each glass. Then, dip the rim into a plate of sugar to coat it lightly. Set the glasses aside until you’re ready to pour the punch.
2. Mix the Punch:
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, pour in the cranberry juice, orange juice, vodka or spiced rum, triple sec, fresh lemon juice, and the simple syrup. Stir everything together well to combine all the flavors.
3. Fill the Glasses with Ice:
Take your prepared glasses and fill them with ice cubes to keep the punch chilled and refreshing as you serve it.
4. Pour the Punch:
Carefully pour the mixed spiked punch over the ice-filled glasses. Fill each glass generously, but be mindful not to overflow!
5. Garnish for Festivity:
To add a festive touch, garnish each glass with a few fresh cranberries, a sprig of rosemary, and a slice of orange perched on the rim. These colorful additions make your punch look beautiful!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious Holiday Spiked Punch Cocktail is now ready to serve! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and festive atmosphere it brings to your gathering!
This festive cocktail combines bright citrus with tart cranberry and the warmth of spirit, perfectly capturing holiday cheer! Cheers!
Can I Make This Punch Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! Simply omit the vodka and triple sec, and replace them with extra cranberry juice, orange juice, or soda for a refreshing mocktail that everyone can enjoy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Punch?
If you have leftover punch, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the ice may dilute the punch, so add fresh ice when serving again!
Can I Prepare This Punch in Advance?
Yes! You can mix all the juices and spirits ahead of time, but wait to add ice and garnish until just before serving to keep it fresh and chilled!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work great as a garnish and can help keep your punch cold without diluting it. Just toss them in frozen, and they’ll look beautiful in your drink!
