Non-Alcoholic Holiday Punch
This warm, non-alcoholic holiday punch combines bright citrus juices with warming spices, creating a cozy beverage perfect for festive gatherings. The recipe involves gently heating citrus, spices, and sweeteners, then adding sparkling water for a lively finish. It results in a fragrant, slightly tangy, and spicy drink with a sparkling, inviting appearance.
Equipment
- Large saucepan or pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle or large spoon
- Glasses and ice
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice preferably freshly squeezed
- 1 cup fresh orange juice preferably freshly squeezed
- 2 cinamon sticks cinnamon adds warm spice flavor
- 4 cloves whole cloves aromatic spice
- 2 star anise star anise pods adds sweetness and depth
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup adjust for sweetness
- 1 cup sparkling water or soda for fizz
- optional a splash of apple juice for added fruity sweetness
- fresh herbs or fruit slices e.g., rosemary, lemon slices for garnish
- ice ice to chill the punch
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and tools, including a large saucepan, measuring cups, spoons, a ladle, glasses, and ice.
- Pour the lemon and orange juice into the saucepan, adding the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
- Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently, until it just begins to steam and the spices infuse the liquid with a fragrant aroma.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup, tasting and adjusting sweetness if desired.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse, then strain out the whole spices and discard them.
- Pour the warm citrus-spice liquid into a serving pitcher and gently add the sparkling water or soda, stirring softly to combine.
- Taste the punch and, if desired, add a splash of apple juice for extra fruitiness.
- Fill glasses with ice, then pour the punch over the ice, garnishing with fresh herbs or fruit slices for visual appeal and aroma.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the fragrant, sparkling, and cozy flavors of this festive punch.
Notes
Ensure the mixture is heated gently to preserve bright citrus flavors and fizz. Strain out whole spices before serving for a smooth drink. Adjust sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste.