Can I make this holiday drinks recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cranberry and orange juice mixture with the rosemary and simple syrup up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water and garnishes just before serving to maintain fizziness.

What substitutions can I make for fresh orange juice?

While fresh orange juice offers the best flavor, you can use high-quality store-bought orange juice. Ensure it's 100% juice and not from concentrate for the best taste in your holiday drinks recipes.

How can I make this punch alcoholic?

To make an adult version, you can add 1.5 to 2 cups of vodka, gin, or white rum to the punch mixture before adding the sparkling water. For a bubbly alcoholic kick, replace some or all of the sparkling water with chilled Prosecco or Champagne.

Is there a way to reduce the sugar content in this holiday drinks recipe?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of simple syrup, or even omit it entirely if you prefer a less sweet, more tart flavor. Alternatively, you can use a sugar substitute in your simple syrup for a low-sugar option.

Holiday drinks recipes: 7 Festive Pours for Your Next Gathering

Description

A vibrant, festive, and refreshingly delicious holiday punch that combines the tartness of cranberries, the brightness of oranges, and the subtle aromatic touch of rosemary. Perfect for any holiday gathering!

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups unsweetened cranberry juice
2 cups fresh orange juice (from about 4-5 oranges)
1 cup sparkling water or club soda, chilled
1/2 cup simple syrup (or adjust to taste, see notes)
1/4 cup fresh rosemary sprigs, plus more for garnish
1 orange, thinly sliced for garnish
1 cup fresh cranberries for garnish
Ice

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the simple syrup if not already made. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let cool completely.
Step 2: In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the unsweetened cranberry juice, fresh orange juice, and simple syrup. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Gently muddle 1/4 cup of fresh rosemary sprigs in the juice mixture. Let steep for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to infuse the rosemary flavor. For a stronger flavor, steep longer or overnight.
Step 4: Before serving, strain the rosemary sprigs from the punch mixture to remove any loose needles. You can use a fine-mesh sieve.
Step 5: Add the chilled sparkling water or club soda to the punch mixture. Stir gently to avoid losing carbonation.
Step 6: Fill your punch bowl or individual glasses with ice. Garnish with fresh orange slices, whole cranberries, and fresh rosemary sprigs. Serve immediately and enjoy your festive holiday drinks recipes!

Notes

For a stronger rosemary flavor, you can gently bruise the rosemary sprigs before adding them to the juice mixture. Adjust simple syrup to your preferred sweetness. For an adult version, a splash of vodka, gin, or prosecco can be added to individual servings.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drinks
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120 kcal
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg