Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and colorful – The red and white elements capture the spirit of Christmas beautifully.
• Easy to make – Just a few simple ingredients and you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable – Easily make it non-alcoholic or add more fizz to suit your taste.
• Perfect for parties – A great crowd-pleaser that can be made in large batches.
• Refreshing peppermint flavor – A delightful mix of cranberry and mint for a holiday twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups cranberry juice
• 4 cups lemon-lime soda
• 1 cup peppermint schnapps (or to taste)
• 2 cups water (or club soda for extra fizz)
• 1 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Directions

1. Prepare the Punch Base
   In a large punch bowl, combine the cranberry juice, peppermint schnapps, and water. Stir well to mix.

2. Add the Soda
   Slowly pour in the lemon-lime soda to add fizz and sweetness. Gently stir to combine without losing too much carbonation.

3. Incorporate the Candy Canes
   Add the crushed candy canes to the punch for a sweet peppermint flavor. Mix until well combined.

4. Serve with Ice
   Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the Candy Cane Christmas Punch over the ice.

5. Garnish and Enjoy
   Garnish each glass with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes and a fresh mint leaf for an extra festive touch.

   Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the peppermint schnapps and replace it with additional cranberry juice or flavored sparkling water!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Non-Alcoholic Version – Replace the peppermint schnapps with extra cranberry juice or mint-flavored sparkling water.
• Extra Fizz – Use club soda instead of water for a bubblier drink.
• Creamy Twist – Add a splash of vanilla ice cream for a creamy holiday punch.
• Citrusy Kick – Add fresh orange or lime slices for a tangy flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Version – Use candy cane-flavored syrup instead of schnapps.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This punch is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep it covered to maintain the flavors.
• Reheating: Since this is a cold beverage, no reheating is necessary. If the fizz has faded, you can add fresh lemon-lime soda before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this punch ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the cranberry juice, schnapps, and water in advance, but add the soda and crushed candy canes just before serving to keep it fresh and fizzy.

2. What’s the best way to crush candy canes?

Place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or a food processor for an even texture.

3. Can I use a different type of alcohol?

Absolutely! You can substitute peppermint schnapps with vodka, rum, or even champagne for a unique twist.

4. How do I make this punch more minty?

Add a few drops of peppermint extract or muddle fresh mint leaves in the punch for a stronger mint flavor.

5. Can I use sugar-free soda?

Yes, using sugar-free lemon-lime soda is a great option if you want to cut down on sugar.

6. Can I serve this warm?

This punch is best served cold, but if you prefer a warm version, skip the soda and gently heat the cranberry juice with peppermint syrup instead.

7. What can I use instead of peppermint schnapps for a non-alcoholic version?

You can replace it with mint extract, candy cane syrup, or additional cranberry juice with a splash of sparkling water.

8. How do I keep the punch cold without watering it down?

Use frozen cranberries or make cranberry juice ice cubes to chill the punch without diluting it.

9. Can I add fresh fruit to this punch?

Yes! Fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or citrus slices make great additions.

10. What other garnishes work well for this drink?

Besides crushed candy canes and mint, you can use whipped cream, sugared cranberries, or a candy cane hanging on the rim of the glass.

Conclusion

Candy Cane Christmas Punch is a fun, festive, and flavorful holiday drink that is perfect for celebrating the season. Whether you make it with or without alcohol, this refreshing beverage will bring holiday cheer to any gathering. Try it at your next Christmas party and watch it become a new favorite tradition!

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Candy Cane Christmas Punch

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This Candy Cane Christmas Punch is the ultimate holiday party drink, bursting with festive peppermint flavor and a sparkling cranberry twist. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, this refreshing punch is easy to make, customizable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 8-10
• Category: Holiday Drinks, Punch
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American, Holiday
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 cups cranberry juice
• 4 cups lemon-lime soda
• 1 cup peppermint schnapps (or to taste)
• 2 cups water (or club soda for extra fizz)
• 1 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

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Notes

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the base (cranberry juice, peppermint schnapps, and water) in advance, but add soda and crushed candy canes just before serving to keep it fizzy.
• Non-Alcoholic Option: Replace the schnapps with extra cranberry juice or a splash of mint-flavored sparkling water.
• Extra Chill: Use frozen cranberries or cranberry juice ice cubes instead of regular ice to prevent dilution.
• More Minty Flavor: Add a few drops of peppermint extract or muddle fresh mint leaves for a stronger mint taste.
• Garnish Ideas: Besides crushed candy canes and mint, try sugared cranberries, whipped cream, or a whole candy cane on the rim of the glass.