Nothing gets a holiday party going like a festive bowl of punch. Though the term “punch”originated from 18th-century British colonial India, we’re defining the term loosely here as a fruity-and-boozy cocktail that you can make in a large batch for a crowd.
For more holiday suggestions, check out our other round-ups such asfestive vegetable sides,holiday potatoes,Christmas soup and salad starters,roasted meatslikeBeef Wellington, plusbar cookies,fudgeandshowstopper holiday desserts.And, tell us about your favorite eggnogs on ourFacebookpage.
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RecipeCitrus Tea Punch
Sweet iced tea is a southern staple. Adding fresh lemon and orange juice transforms it into a punch that can be made even more festive with a splash of vodka. -
RecipeWhite Wine & Elderflower Gløgg
Throughout December, Scandinavians meet outside to drink the hot spiced wine punch known as gløgg (pronounced "gleug") and sing carols—it’s like a cocktail party in the snow. Red wine is traditional in gløgg, but white wine is a nice change of pace in this light, bright version. -
RecipeCranberry-Lime Shrub Sparkler
Popular in colonial times, a shrub is a sweetened fruit and vinegar syrup, made here with cranberries for a particularly festive color and tart flavor. Make it in a big batch and let guests top it off with sparkling wine or seltzer as they choose. -
RecipeSt. Cecilia Society Punch
This concoction of brandy, green tea, pineapple juice, and sparkling wine is named for a famously private and exclusive social organization founded in Charleston, South Carolina, in the 18th century. -
RecipeTenant’s Harbor Punch
This punch is named for a quiet, windswept point on the rocky coast of Maine. The caraway-flavored aquavit is balanced by lemons, fresh strawberries, and cucumber slices. -
RecipeTequila-Champagne Sangria
This spiked white sangria is one of several served at El Real Tex-Mex Café in Houston. The sparkling wine and soda give it a gentle effervescence, rather than a fierce fizz.
