This Candy Cane Punch Mocktail is a fun and festive drink that’s perfect for the holidays! It’s made with refreshing peppermint, bubbly soda, and a splash of cranberry juice. 🎄
When I serve it, everyone loves the candy cane stirrers. It makes me feel like a party planner—without the stress! Just mix, sip, and enjoy the holiday cheer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: This juice gives the punch its beautiful color and tangy flavor. You can swap it for pomegranate juice for a different twist, or even apple juice for a sweeter option.
Sparkling Water or Lemon-lime Soda: I love using sparkling water for a lighter drink, but lemon-lime soda adds extra sweetness. If you prefer to cut down on sugar, go for the sparkling water.
Peppermint Schnapps Syrup or Extract: If you’re avoiding alcohol, peppermint simple syrup does the trick beautifully! Just mix equal parts water and sugar, add peppermint extract, and you’re set.
Crushed Candy Canes: These add a festive flair and crunch. If you can’t find candy canes, any peppermint candy will work, like peppermint patties or even sugar crystals for the rim!
How Do I Make the Perfect Rim on My Glasses?
Rimming glasses adds a lovely touch to your mocktail. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start by pouring coarse sugar or crushed candy canes on a plate.
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass to make it sticky.
- Dip the glass into the sugar/candy mixture so it coats the rim nicely.
- Set aside to dry for a minute before adding ice and juice. This little step makes the drink pop visually and adds a sweet touch!
Candy Cane Punch Mocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 1 cup sparkling water or lemon-lime soda (for fizz)
- ½ cup peppermint schnapps syrup or peppermint extract (for non-alcoholic use, use peppermint simple syrup)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish
- Ice cubes
- Coarse sugar or crushed candy canes to rim the glass
- Lime slices for garnish
- Whole candy canes for decoration (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll be mixing, stirring, and garnishing in no time, making it a quick and festive addition to your holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glasses:
Start by making your glasses festive! Lightly coat the rim of each glass with lime juice. Then, dip each glass into coarse sugar or crushed candy canes until the rim is coated nicely. Set the glasses aside to dry for a moment.
2. Mix the Punch:
In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, peppermint syrup or extract, and fresh lime juice. Stir it well to mix all the wonderful flavors together. This is where the magic begins!
3. Add Some Fizz:
Right before serving, pour the sparkling water or lemon-lime soda into the pitcher. This adds a bubbly fizz that makes the mocktail refreshing and fun!
4. Assemble the Drinks:
Fill each prepared glass with ice cubes. This will keep your drink nice and cold!
5. Serve the Punch:
Pour the punch mixture over the ice in each glass, filling them generously. Make sure everyone gets a lovely mix of colors and flavors.
6. Garnish with Festivity:
Sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top for a sweet crunch and add a lime slice on the rim of each glass. This little touch makes it look extra special!
7. Add a Cute Stirrer:
If you like, add a whole candy cane as a stirrer in each drink. It’s not only cute but also gives a little extra peppermint flavor as you sip.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the Candy Cane Punch Mocktail immediately and enjoy the festive vibes with family and friends! Cheers to a delightful holiday season!
Can I Make This Mocktail Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry and peppermint mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add the sparkling water or soda right before serving to maintain its fizz!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different kind of sweetener, you can use agave syrup or honey in place of peppermint syrup. Just adjust the quantity to taste, keeping in mind honey can add its own flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the punch mixture (without the soda) in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to add the sparkling water fresh when you’re ready to serve!
Can I Make This Punch Alcoholic?
For a festive twist, you can definitely make this punch alcoholic by adding a splash of peppermint schnapps or vodka. Just adjust the quantity based on your preference for a stronger drink!
