Description
Sparkling Cranberry Punch is a festive and refreshing beverage perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations. Combining tart cranberry juice, citrusy orange and lime juices, and bubbly sparkling water or lemon-lime soda, this punch balances sweet and tangy flavors for a delightful and thirst-quenching drink. Garnished with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and optional mint sprigs, it offers a vibrant presentation that’s as appealing as its taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Juices
- 4 cups cranberry juice (100% juice, unsweetened)
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
Carbonation and Garnishes
- 1 liter sparkling water or lemon-lime soda (chilled)
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Optional: fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Mix the Juices: In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the cranberry juice, orange juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir well to blend all the flavors thoroughly.
- Add Sparkling Water: Just before serving, pour in the chilled sparkling water or lemon-lime soda to add effervescence to the punch. Stir gently to mix without losing the bubbles.
- Add Garnishes: Float fresh cranberries and thin orange slices on top of the punch to give it a festive and colorful appearance.
- Serve: Fill individual glasses with ice cubes, then pour the sparkling cranberry punch over the ice. Garnish each glass with an additional orange slice or a fresh mint sprig if desired to enhance the aroma and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use 100% unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart and authentic flavor; swap for sweetened if preferred sweeter punch.
- Lemon-lime soda can be used instead of sparkling water for a sweeter, more festive punch.
- Fresh mint sprigs are optional but add a refreshing aroma and elegant touch.
- Prepare the juice mixture ahead of time for convenience; add sparkling water right before serving to maintain fizz.
- This punch is non-alcoholic but can be spiked with vodka or rum for adult gatherings.
