Candy Cane Christmas Punch is the ultimate festive drink that instantly puts everyone in the holiday spirit. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, classroom party, or adult cocktail night, this punch delivers creamy peppermint flavor, fizzy fun, and eye-catching color in every glass. It’s the kind of recipe that looks magical and tastes like Christmas.
With just a few ingredients and under 15 minutes of prep, this crowd-pleaser is a go-to favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make alcohol-free or give a grown-up twist. Let’s stir up some peppermint cheer!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive & fun: Perfectly pepperminty and visually stunning with a candy cane garnish.
- Easy to make: Just 5 minutes to mix and serve!
- Kid- and adult-friendly: Make it non-alcoholic or spike it for holiday parties.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep the base, add ice cream just before serving.
Ingredients
- 6 cups lemon-lime soda (or ginger ale for extra fizz)
- 2 cups peppermint ice cream (or vanilla + peppermint extract)
- 1 cup cranberry juice (adds tartness and color)
- ½ cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: fresh cranberries & mint leaves for decoration
For Adults (optional): - ½ cup peppermint schnapps or vodka
Instructions
- Chill all ingredients at least 2 hours before mixing.
- In a large punch bowl, combine soda and cranberry juice.
- Add scoops of peppermint ice cream, gently stirring until frothy.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Garnish with cranberries, mint leaves, or whole candy canes as stirrers.
- Serve immediately in festive glasses.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Note: Values may vary with substitutions and brands.
Calories: ~180
Carbs: ~34g
Sugar: ~28g
Fat: ~4g
Protein: ~1g
Tips & Variations
🍸 Fun Twists:
- Frozen version: Blend everything into a slushy punch.
- Frosty White Punch: Skip the cranberry juice for a snowy-white look.
- Grinch Punch: Use lime sherbet + green food coloring.
🍬 Tips:
- Rim glasses with crushed candy cane + corn syrup for extra flair.
- Serve in a glass punch bowl to highlight the beautiful colors.
- Add ice cubes with frozen cranberries inside for a decorative touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap in dairy-free peppermint ice cream or raspberry sorbet.
Q: How do I keep it fizzy longer?
Chill all ingredients and add soda last, right before serving.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes—mix cranberry juice and soda base ahead, but add ice cream right before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I skip the ice cream?
Sure! Use peppermint syrup + extra soda for a lighter version.
Candy Cane Christmas Punch
Equipment
- – Large punch bowl
- – Ice cream scoop
- – Glasses for serving
Ingredients
- – 6 cups lemon-lime soda or ginger ale
- – 2 cups peppermint ice cream or vanilla + peppermint extract
- – 1 cup cranberry juice
- – ½ cup crushed candy canes plus more for garnish
- – Fresh cranberries & mint leaves optional
- – ½ cup peppermint schnapps or vodka optional, for adults
Instructions
- Chill all ingredients before use.
- Combine soda and juice in a punch bowl.
- Add scoops of peppermint ice cream and stir gently.
- Top with crushed candy canes.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Notes
– Swap soda types for different levels of fizz.
– Serve immediately for best froth and color.
Conclusion
This Candy Cane Christmas Punch isn’t just a drink—it’s a holiday tradition in a glass. Creamy, bubbly, and bursting with peppermint magic, it’ll become a regular feature at your December celebrations. Serve it with cookies, gingerbread, or a full Christmas brunch spread for a truly merry experience.