Holiday Punch with Cranberries and Citrus (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Holiday Punch with Cranberries and Citrus
Holiday punch is a delightful tradition that brings people together, especially during the festive season. This classic version, featuring bright cranberries and zesty citrus, is not only visually stunning but also a refreshing treat that can be enjoyed by all ages. The vibrant colors of the punch evoke the spirit of the holidays, making it a centerpiece at any gathering.
Historically, punch has its roots in the 17th century, originating from India and making its way to Europe, where it evolved into various forms. The word 'punch' is derived from the Hindi word 'panch,' meaning five, which refers to the five original ingredients: alcohol, sugar, lemon, water, and tea or spices. In this classic holiday punch, we honor that tradition while incorporating seasonal flavors that celebrate the joy of the season.
To make this punch, you’ll need a large punch bowl or pitcher to accommodate the vibrant mix of ingredients. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet citrus, and a splash of sparkling water creates a refreshing balance that will keep your guests coming back for more. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover cranberries from your holiday baking. Just remember, if you’re serving this at a party, it’s best to keep an eye on the punch bowl—otherwise, it might disappear faster than you can say ‘cheers!’
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 2 cups orange juice
- 0.5 cup lemon juice
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups sparkling water
- 1 whole orange slices
- 1 whole lemon slices
Instructions
- Start by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water. This helps remove any residue and ensures they are clean for your punch.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 0.5 cups of sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves, creating a simple syrup.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling step is crucial to prevent the punch from becoming too warm.
- In a large punch bowl, combine the cooled simple syrup with 2 cups of fresh orange juice and 0.5 cups of fresh lemon juice. Stir well to mix the flavors.
- Add the rinsed cranberries to the punch bowl, giving it a festive touch. The cranberries will float and add a beautiful pop of color.
- Slice one orange and one lemon into thin rounds. Add these slices to the punch bowl for added flavor and decoration.
- Just before serving, pour in 4 cups of sparkling water to give the punch a refreshing fizz. This is the moment when your punch transforms from a simple drink to a bubbly celebration!
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients, being careful not to lose too much carbonation. You want your punch to be lively and effervescent.
- Taste the punch and adjust the sweetness if necessary. If it’s too tart, add a bit more sugar or simple syrup to balance the flavors.
- Serve the punch over ice in festive glasses. Garnish with additional cranberries or citrus slices for an extra touch of holiday cheer.
- If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator, but be aware that the sparkling water will lose its fizz over time. Enjoy within a day or two for the best experience.
- As you serve, don’t forget to raise a glass and toast to the season! After all, what’s a holiday gathering without a little cheer?
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs g: 30
- Protein g: 1
- Fat g: 0
- Sugar g: 25
