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This cheerful peppermint holiday punch brings a festive pop of color and joy to any winter gathering. Creamy and lightly fizzy with a lively hint of peppermint, it is a showstopper both in flavor and looks. I discovered this punch when searching for a family-friendly Christmas treat and it quickly became the highlight at our annual cookie party. The beautiful pink hue and candy cane finish always spark conversation and smiles.
The first time I made this punch, my youngest insisted on helping with the candy cane garnish. Now decorating the punch bowl is our shared holiday tradition that kicks off the party.
Ingredients
- Vanilla ice cream: brings creaminess and mellow vanilla notes — pick a real dairy ice cream for best taste
- Strawberry or raspberry sherbet: adds pink color and a fruity zing — try pink peppermint sherbet if you spot it for extra seasonal flair
- Cold milk or half and half: gives a smooth body — whole milk keeps it richer but half and half makes it even more decadent
- Sprite or 7UP or sparkling lemonade: adds bubbly lift and a sweet-tart contrast — always use chilled soda so the ice cream doesn’t melt too fast
- Peppermint extract: delivers the holiday flavor — start with a little and add more to taste but avoid using a mint flavor which is different
- Red food coloring: is totally optional just for deeper pink — gel colors work best for vibrant tone
- Crushed candy canes: lend classic look and peppermint crunch — choose fresh ones for brightest flavor
- Mini candy canes: dress up the rim and add instant holiday cheer — press them onto a frosting or melted chocolate base for best hold
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Decorate the Bowl:
- If you want to do a decorative rim set out your punch bowl and dip the top edge lightly in melted white chocolate or frosting. While still tacky press mini candy canes around the edge pressing gently to stick. Let set for a few minutes so they stay put.
- Build the Punch Base:
- In the bottom of your punch bowl drop large scoops of vanilla ice cream and strawberry or raspberry sherbet. Pour the cold milk or half and half over the top. Add the peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring if using.
- Add the Bubbles:
- Slowly pour in Sprite 7UP or sparkling lemonade. Do this gently around the sides rather than directly in the middle. The bubbles will create an irresistible fluffy texture. Use a long spoon to stir gently just enough to combine but leave visible creamy swirls.
- Finish and Serve:
- Top the punch with reserved scoops of ice cream. Sprinkle generously with crushed candy canes. Serve right away using a ladle dipping out punch that has both creamy swirls and fizzy soda.
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My favorite part is sprinkling the crushed candy canes and seeing the delight on everyone’s faces when they take their first pink frothy sip. I still remember last year’s snow day with family gathered around this bowl laughing and drinking together.
Storage Tips
This punch tastes best served immediately so the fizz and creamy texture shine. If you need to prep ahead you can scoop ice cream and sherbet into the punch bowl and freeze covered for up to four hours. Wait to add milk and soda and all peppermint toppings until just before serving to keep it fresh and festive.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any combination of pink sherbet if strawberry or raspberry is not available. For a dairy free version try creamy coconut ice cream and your favorite plant based milk. Use any clear lemon lime soda you enjoy or swap sparkling lemonade for a tangier twist. If you cannot find candy canes try crushed starlight mints for garnish.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this punch in your largest bowl with a hefty ladle so each scoop catches both ice cream and soda. It makes a perfect centerpiece at a hot cocoa bar cookie exchange or Christmas brunch. Offering it in small clear cups shows off its pretty stripes and allows guests to appreciate both the color and texture.
Cultural and Festive Context
Peppermint punch has been a North American holiday tradition since the mid twentieth century when soda fountains were at their peak. The combination of fizz cream and mint goes back to classic ice cream soda treats but takes a cheery seasonal turn with pink sherbet and candy canes. It remains a beloved choice for parties since everyone from kids to adults can join in the fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different flavors of sherbet?
Yes, strawberry, raspberry, or even pink peppermint sherbet work well. Choose your favorite for a custom flavor.
- → Is it possible to make this punch ahead of time?
For best texture, prepare just before serving, as the ice cream and soda should be freshly mixed for frothiness.
- → What can I use instead of soda?
Try sparkling lemonade or plain sparkling water for a less sweet version, still keeping that bubbly element.
- → How do I create the candy cane rim?
Lightly dip the punch bowl rim in melted white chocolate or frosting and press mini candy canes on for decoration.
- → Can I adjust the level of peppermint flavor?
Yes, add peppermint extract to taste, starting with less and increasing until you reach your preferred flavor strength.
- → Is food coloring required?
It's optional and only for enhancing color. The punch will taste great with or without added coloring.