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This Peppermint Holiday Punch is the perfect festive drink to brighten up any holiday gathering. It combines creamy ice cream, fruity sherbet, and sparkling soda with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Ready in just 15 minutes, it allows you to spend more time enjoying your company instead of being stuck in the kitchen. This punch has become a family favorite for its joyful flavor and eye-catching presentation.
I first served this punch at a busy holiday party when I was short on time and everyone raved about it. Now it is always on my menu because it creates such a festive atmosphere and everyone loves the peppermint twist.
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream: adds creaminess and sweetness choose a high-quality brand for the smoothest texture
- Strawberry or raspberry sherbet: brings a fruity flavor and a lovely pink color pink peppermint sherbet works too for extra holiday flair
- Cold milk or half and half: creates a silky texture for the punch heavy cream can be used for a richer taste
- Sprite, 7UP, or sparkling lemonade: adds bubbles and balances richness with their refreshing fizz
- Peppermint extract: provides the signature mint flavor use sparingly and adjust to taste as it can be strong
- Red food coloring: is optional but enhances the punch's festive visual appeal
- Crushed candy canes for garnish: add a crunchy peppermint surprise on top
- Mini candy canes: decorate the bowl rim making the presentation extra charming and inviting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bowl:
- Begin by dipping the rim of your punch bowl in melted white chocolate or frosting to help mini candy canes stick. Arrange mini candy canes evenly around the rim for a beautiful festive look and some added sweetness with every sip.
- Make the Punch:
- Scoop vanilla ice cream and strawberry or raspberry sherbet into the punch bowl. Slowly pour the cold milk over the ice cream to begin blending the base. Add peppermint extract carefully tasting as you go. For extra holiday color add a drop or two of red food coloring. Pour in the sparkling soda gently to preserve the bubbles and watch the punch froth. Stir gently just enough to combine without losing the creamy swirls.
- Top and Serve:
- Add a few extra scoops of ice cream on top to create a rich inviting surface. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top to add crunch and peppermint flavor. Serve immediately with a ladle and enjoy the joyful reaction from your guests.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the peppermint extract because that fresh minty burst instantly transforms the punch into a holiday classic. The first time I made this, I watched my family light up as they sipped it by the fire on a frosty evening. It’s those moments I cherish the most making this punch even more special.
Storage Tips
You can prepare the punch base ahead of time and refrigerate it but wait to add the soda until just before serving to keep the bubbles lively. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to two days but the texture may soften as the ice cream melts so it tastes best fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a non-dairy version swap the ice cream and milk for coconut or almond milk and choose dairy-free ice cream to keep it creamy. Instead of sherbet, you can use fruit-flavored ice cream or yogurt to maintain the fruity flavor and smooth texture. For less sweetness, replace the soda with sparkling water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your peppermint punch with classic holiday cookies like gingerbread or sugar cookies for a sweet pairing. It also complements cheese platters nicely adding a cool refreshing contrast. For an adult version add a splash of peppermint schnapps. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch and use clear glasses to show off the beautiful swirls and colors.
Pro Tips
- Add peppermint extract slowly to avoid overpowering the punch
- Do not over stir after adding soda to keep pretty frothy swirls
- For extra creaminess swap milk with half and half or heavy cream if you like it richer
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare peppermint punch in advance?
Yes, mix all ingredients except the soda ahead of time and store in the fridge. Add soda just before serving to keep the fizz fresh.
- → Is peppermint punch kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Simply omit any adult-only ingredients like peppermint schnapps for a creamy, mint-flavored drink perfect for children.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness?
Reduce the amount of sherbet or use sparkling water instead of soda for a less sweet and lighter drink.
- → What are good substitutes for sherbet?
Fruity ice cream or yogurt can replace sherbet, but expect a slight change in flavor and texture.
- → How long does the punch keep after preparation?
Store leftover punch in the fridge up to two days. Texture may soften as ice cream melts, so serving fresh is best.
- → Can I make a vegan version?
Yes, use dairy-free ice cream and plant-based milk alternatives like coconut or almond milk for a vegan-friendly option.