Holiday Punch with Cranberries and Citrus (vegan)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Holiday Punch with Cranberries and Citrus
Holiday punch is a festive staple that has graced gatherings for centuries, often served in large bowls to accommodate the merry crowd. This vegan version embraces the vibrant flavors of cranberries and citrus, creating a drink that’s as refreshing as it is celebratory. With its bright red hue and zesty notes, it’s sure to be the star of your holiday table, outshining even Aunt Edna's famous fruitcake (and that’s saying something!).
The origins of holiday punch can be traced back to the 17th century, where it was a blend of spirits, sugar, and spices, often enjoyed during winter festivities. Over the years, it has evolved into a non-alcoholic delight that caters to all ages, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings. This version is not only vegan but also packed with antioxidants from the cranberries and vitamin C from the citrus, ensuring you can sip with a clear conscience while enjoying the holiday cheer.
To make this punch, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and a large punch bowl to showcase its beauty. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet orange juice, and zesty lime creates a harmonious balance that dances on your palate. Feel free to get creative with garnishes—fresh mint or additional citrus slices can elevate the presentation and flavor. Just remember, the only thing better than a punch bowl full of this delightful drink is a punch bowl that never runs dry!
So, gather your friends and family, and let’s get mixing! This holiday punch is not just a drink; it’s a celebration in a glass. And if anyone asks for the secret ingredient, just tell them it’s a sprinkle of holiday magic (and maybe a dash of patience while it chills). Cheers to a festive season filled with laughter, love, and plenty of punch!
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Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 2 cups orange juice
- 0.5 cup lime juice
- 4 cups sparkling water
- 0.5 cup agave syrup
- 0.5 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 whole orange slices
- 1 whole lime slices
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water. This helps remove any debris and ensures they are clean for your punch.
- In a large punch bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh orange juice and 0.5 cup of lime juice. This citrus base will provide a refreshing zing to your punch.
- Add 0.5 cup of agave syrup to the citrus juices, stirring well until fully dissolved. This will sweeten the punch without overpowering the natural tartness of the cranberries.
- Next, gently fold in the rinsed cranberries into the punch mixture. Their bright color and tart flavor will add a festive touch.
- Pour in 4 cups of sparkling water to the punch bowl. This will give your punch a delightful fizz, making it feel extra special.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to crush the cranberries; you want them to float beautifully in the punch.
- To enhance the presentation, add fresh mint leaves to the punch. Not only do they look lovely, but they also add a refreshing aroma.
- Slice one whole orange and one whole lime into thin rounds. Add these slices to the punch for an extra burst of color and flavor.
- Let the punch chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- When ready to serve, give the punch a gentle stir and ladle it into glasses filled with ice. The ice will keep the punch cool and refreshing.
- Garnish each glass with additional mint leaves or a slice of orange or lime for a festive touch. Presentation is key, after all!
- Enjoy your holiday punch with friends and family, and don’t forget to raise a glass to the season of joy and togetherness!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Carbs g: 30
- Protein g: 1
- Fat g: 0
- Sugar g: 25
