Easy Frozen Holiday Punch: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Christmas Party Drink for All Ages

Get ready to delight your guests this holiday season with the most incredible frozen holiday punch recipe! This vibrant, effervescent drink is the perfect addition to any festive gathering, from a cozy Christmas Eve dinner to a lively New Year’s celebration. Combining the zesty fizz of ginger ale with the sweet tang of pineapple juice and a splash of cherry-flavored Jello, it creates a frosty, beautiful party punch that everyone in the family can enjoy. Best of all, it’s designed to be made ahead of time, taking the stress out of last-minute party prep.

I’ll also share tips on how to effortlessly transform this family-friendly favorite into a delightful boozy version for the adults, ensuring there’s a perfect sip for every guest. And if you’re eager for more festive sips with a grown-up twist, don’t miss out on my popular Christmas Margaritas and exciting Christmas Jello Shots!

There’s something truly magical about a festive punch during the holidays. Growing up, our Christmas Eve celebrations always featured a rotation of cherished Christmas punch recipes, and this icy holiday punch quickly became one of my all-time favorites. It’s inspired by a fantastic old recipe from Taste of Home magazine, which I’ve adapted to be completely alcohol-free. This way, everyone, especially my son, can feel included in the special holiday toast and join in the fun!

This rosy, frosty drink isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly convenient. You can whip it up in minutes the night before your event, allowing it to freeze solid. Then, a few hours before serving, simply take it out of the freezer to let it soften into a delightful slush. The real magic happens right before serving when you add the ginger ale, transforming it into a bubbly, refreshing treat. Forget watered-down drinks from melting ice cubes – this method ensures a consistently sweet, fruity, and fizzy deliciousness in every single glass, maintaining its vibrant flavor and perfect icy texture.

Why This Frozen Holiday Punch Recipe is an Absolute Must-Try

This particular holiday punch recipe has earned its place as a staple in my festive celebrations for several compelling reasons. Its simplicity, adaptability, and sheer deliciousness make it a true holiday hero. Here’s why I’m confident you’ll adore it too:

• Kid-Friendly Delight. While I certainly enjoy mixing up sophisticated adult beverages like Christmas Sangria and Mistletoe Margaritas for guests, the holidays are also about inclusive family moments. This recipe shines because it’s perfectly crafted without alcohol, making it a fantastic option for kids and adults who prefer non-alcoholic drinks. My son’s face lights up every time I make this festive drink, knowing he can have a special, celebratory beverage just like the grown-ups. It’s wonderful to share a toast with the whole family, ensuring no one feels left out.
• Fizzy, Frosty, and Flavorful. As a lover of all things fizzy, this punch delivers a delightful sparkle. The freezing technique is a game-changer; it means you never have to dilute your delicious punch with melting ice cubes, which can quickly water down the flavor. Instead, the punch becomes a beautiful, icy slush that stays cold and refreshing. Just before serving, you add the ginger ale, ensuring maximum fizz and a wonderfully slushy texture that’s absolutely perfect for sipping. It’s pure, undiluted deliciousness from start to finish.
• Incredibly Adaptable. One of the best features of this holiday punch is its versatility. You have complete control to tailor it to your audience and preferences. You can keep it completely booze-free, or easily transform it into an adult-friendly concoction by adding a splash of your favorite liquor. Beyond alcohol, you can swap out various fruit juices, change the Jello flavor, or even substitute the ginger ale for sparkling wine or club soda. This flexibility makes it ideal for any occasion or dietary preference.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make. Holiday entertaining can be hectic, which is why simple recipes are always a win. This frozen punch comes together with minimal effort and just a few basic ingredients, all mixed in one bowl. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing you to prepare it the night before and free up valuable time on the day of your party. It truly doesn’t get much easier than this, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.

Essential Punch Ingredients for a Perfect Holiday Sip

Did you know the word “punch” actually comes from the German word “Punsch”? It traditionally refers to a delicious mixture of fruit juices, often with liquor, and typically topped with something fizzy like sparkling wine or soda. While my base recipe for this frozen holiday punch is delightfully alcohol-free, it’s incredibly simple to adjust if you prefer a boozy version (we’ll dive into those details later!).

For now, let’s explore the core ingredients that make this frosty beverage so special. These are readily available and come together beautifully to create a festive drink. For a convenient, printable list with the exact measurements and full recipe details, please scroll down to the recipe card below.

• Cherry Jello – You’ll need one 6-ounce packet of cherry Jello. The cherry flavor provides that classic festive red hue and a wonderful sweet-tart note that’s quintessential for holiday drinks. However, this recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with other gelatin flavors you love, such as strawberry or raspberry, to customize the color and taste.
• Sugar and Water – To create the base, I combine the Jello with boiling water and a touch of granulated sugar. This helps the Jello dissolve completely and adds an extra layer of sweetness, balancing the fruit juices. If you prefer a less sweet punch, you can certainly reduce or even skip the added sugar. Alternatively, for those avoiding refined sugar, honey or a sugar substitute like Stevia could be used.
• Ginger Ale – This is the key to the punch’s delightful fizz and a subtle spicy note. Its crisp, refreshing quality pairs perfectly with the fruit flavors. If ginger ale isn’t your preference or isn’t available, other clear, fizzy soft drinks make excellent substitutes. Popular choices include Sprite, 7Up, or Fresca, which offer similar carbonation and a bright, citrusy lift.
• Pineapple Juice – I typically use 100% pineapple juice, often found in canned form, for its consistent flavor and sweetness. Pineapple juice adds a fantastic tropical sweetness and a lovely tang that brightens the entire punch. Any brand of pineapple juice you find at your local grocery store will work wonderfully for this recipe.

Mastering the Art of Frozen Holiday Punch: Step-by-Step Guide

Making this icy, juicy Christmas punch is incredibly straightforward, and it’s the perfect make-ahead recipe to simplify your holiday party preparations. By preparing it the night before, you ensure a stress-free serving experience on the day of your event. Here’s how to create this festive masterpiece, with detailed steps to guide you. Remember to scroll down to the recipe card for the full printable instructions and precise measurements.

• Combine the Base Ingredients. Begin by selecting a large, freezer-proof bowl or container that will comfortably hold your punch mix. In this container, carefully dissolve the cherry Jello powder and granulated sugar in the boiling water. Stir continuously until both the Jello and sugar are completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth base. Once dissolved, stir in the pineapple juice and the cold water. This initial mixture forms the concentrated flavor of your punch.
• Freeze for Frosty Perfection. Once your mixture is thoroughly combined, cover the container and carefully place the punch into the freezer. It needs to freeze overnight, or for at least 8-12 hours, to become completely solid. This solid block is what creates the perfect slushy texture later on. When you’re nearing serving time, typically 2-4 hours beforehand, remove the frozen punch from the freezer. This allows it ample time to soften slightly into a delightfully slushy consistency, making it easy to scoop and ensuring it’s icy but not rock-hard.
• Finish and Serve with a Flourish. The final step brings the punch to life! When you are ready to serve your festive holiday punch, gently break up the slushy frozen mixture in the bowl. Then, pour in the chilled ginger ale. Stir gently to combine the fizz with the fruity base. The ginger ale adds the perfect amount of carbonation and helps achieve that ideal, refreshing slushy texture. Ladle into individual glasses, garnish with fresh fruit or mint, and enjoy this wonderfully fizzy and flavorful drink!

Absolutely! Crafting a Boozy Holiday Punch

For those looking to add a little extra cheer to their holiday celebrations, transforming this recipe into a boozy punch is incredibly simple and highly recommended for adult guests. The fruit-forward base provides a perfect foundation for various spirits and wines, allowing you to customize the kick to your liking.

To give your holiday punch an extra festive (and adult) edge, simply stir in your preferred liquor along with the ginger ale when you’re ready to serve. Popular choices include:

• White Rum or Vodka: These spirits are excellent as they offer a neutral base that lets the fruity flavors of the punch shine. Add about 1-2 cups for a batch of this size, adjusting to taste.
• Spiced Rum: For a warmer, more aromatic twist, spiced rum complements the cherry and pineapple beautifully, adding depth and a touch of holiday spice.
• Liqueurs: Enhance the sweetness and complexity with liqueurs. Options like peach schnapps, Cointreau, triple sec, or even a cherry liqueur can wonderfully complement the flavors in this recipe. Start with 1/2 to 1 cup and taste before adding more.

Another fantastic option is to replace some of the non-alcoholic components with wine. You could substitute a portion of the fruit juice or ginger ale with red wine (like a Merlot or Zinfandel for a deeper flavor), white wine (such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a crisper taste), a lovely rosé, or even sparkling wine for an extra special bubbly treat. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor the punch to your guests’ preferences and the specific occasion. See the next section for even more easy variations!

Get Creative: Easy Variations for Your Holiday Punch

The beauty of this frozen holiday punch recipe lies in its incredible versatility. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to create a unique beverage that perfectly suits your taste and holiday theme. Here are some easy variations to inspire your punch-making creativity:

• Elevate with Sparkling Wine. For a truly elegant and celebratory touch, replace the ginger ale or other soda with your favorite sparkling wine. A dry Prosecco or an affordable Champagne will add a sophisticated bubbly texture without overwhelming sweetness. If you prefer something sweeter, a Moscato d’Asti would be a delightful choice, bringing its own fruity notes. This instantly transforms the punch into a chic cocktail perfect for New Year’s Eve or a formal holiday dinner.
• For a Less Sweet Punch. If you or your guests prefer drinks that aren’t overly sweet, it’s simple to adjust. Swap out the ginger ale for club soda, sparkling water, or unsweetened seltzer. These options provide the desired fizziness without adding extra sugar, allowing the natural fruit flavors to shine through more prominently. You can also reduce the amount of added sugar when making the Jello base.
• Explore Different Fruit Juices. The world of fruit juice is your oyster! While pineapple juice provides a fantastic base, almost anything goes when it comes to customization. Instead of, or in addition to, pineapple juice, consider these delicious alternatives:
  • Apple Cider (or Apple Juice): Adds a comforting, autumnal sweetness.
  • Cranberry Juice: Perfect for a tart, vibrant red color and classic holiday flavor.
  • White Grape Juice: Offers a lighter, sweeter fruit flavor.
  • Peach Juice or Nectar: Brings a lovely, mellow sweetness and a hint of stone fruit.
  • Lemonade or Limeade: For a zesty, citrusy kick that can balance sweetness.
  • Orange Juice: A classic punch ingredient for its bright, sunny flavor.
  Feel free to combine a few to create your signature blend!
• Switch Up the Jello Flavor. Just as with fruit juices, your choice of Jell-O flavor can dramatically change the punch’s character and color. While cherry Jello provides that iconic festive red, don’t limit yourself! Go ahead and substitute it for strawberry for a similar sweetness, raspberry for a slightly tarter berry note, or even lime for a vibrant green holiday punch. You can also opt for sugar-free gelatin mixes to further reduce the sugar content without sacrificing flavor or color.
• Delightful Add-ins and Garnishes. Presentation is key, especially during the holidays! Elevate your punch visually and texturally with these delightful additions:
  • Fresh Citrus Slices: Thinly slice oranges, lemons, or limes and float them in the punch for a beautiful aroma and pop of color.
  • Fresh Berries: Add fresh or frozen cranberries, raspberries, or whole cherries. They not only look stunning but also keep the punch colder.
  • Pomegranate Arils: These jewel-like seeds add a sophisticated touch and a burst of tartness.
  • Herbs: Fresh sprigs of mint or rosemary offer a fragrant, festive touch that hints at holiday greenery.
  • Edible Glitter: For an extra dash of sparkle, a pinch of edible glitter can make your punch truly magical.

Creative Serving Suggestions for Your Holiday Punch

This frozen holiday punch is an absolute showstopper and perfect for almost any festive get-together. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste make it a highlight, whether you’re hosting an intimate family dinner or a grand holiday bash. Here are some ideas to make your punch and your party truly memorable:

• Holiday Feasts: Naturally, it’s a star for Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, or New Year’s Eve parties. Its make-ahead nature means less stress on busy celebration days.
• Winter Gatherings: Don’t limit it to just the big holidays! This punch is fantastic for any winter gathering, potluck, or festive brunch throughout the season.
• Party Food Pairings: Serve a big batch of this frosty punch alongside an array of delicious appetizers and finger foods. It pairs wonderfully with savory bites like hearty Crock Pot Honey Garlic Meatballs, savory cheesy Sausage Cups, and a classic Party Mix.
• Sweet Treat Companions: For dessert, complement the punch with sweet treats such as rich Peanut Clusters, whimsical Reindeer Chow (also known as Hot Chocolate Muddy Buddies), or festive cookies.
• Presentation Matters:
  • Punch Bowl: A large, clear punch bowl showcases the beautiful color and icy texture.
  • Individual Glasses: For a more personal touch, serve in individual glasses, perhaps rimmed with sugar or edible glitter.
  • Garnishes: Enhance the visual appeal with fresh garnishes. Fresh mint or rosemary sprigs make a fun, Christmassy touch that also adds a subtle aromatic note. Floating cherries, orange slices, or even star anise can add a beautiful finish to each glass or the punch bowl itself.
  • Ice Ring: For an extra special touch, freeze some of the punch base with cranberries or citrus slices in a bundt pan to create a festive ice ring. This keeps the punch cold without diluting it and adds a stunning visual element.

Storing Your Frozen Holiday Punch: Make-Ahead & Leftover Tips

One of the many benefits of this frozen holiday punch is its fantastic make-ahead potential and how easily it stores. This allows you to prepare well in advance and enjoy a fuss-free celebration.

• Make-Ahead Perfection. You can prepare the punch mix (everything except the ginger ale) and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. This is perfect for getting ahead of the holiday rush! You have a couple of options for freezing:
  • Large Block: Freeze it in one large, freezer-proof block in a decorative punch bowl (if freezer-safe) or a large container. Remember that it will require 2-4 hours to thaw to a slushy consistency before serving.
  • Individual Portions/Ice Cubes: For even quicker thawing and easier portion control, you can pour the punch base into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, simply add a few cubes to each glass and top with ginger ale as it thaws.
  If you’re freezing this punch more than one day ahead, be aware that it might need slightly more time to thaw to the ideal slushy consistency.
• Re-freeze Leftovers. If you happen to have any leftover punch (without the added ginger ale), it can absolutely be returned to the freezer in a freezer-safe container. Simply thaw it again at a later date for another refreshing treat. However, remember that the carbonation from the ginger ale will diminish over time. For the best flavor and fizz when re-serving, I highly recommend adding a fresh splash of ginger ale to your thawed punch. This will revive its bubbly nature and delicious taste.

Tips for the Best Frozen Holiday Punch Every Time

To ensure your frozen holiday punch is a resounding success and tastes fantastic, consider these additional tips:

• Chilled Ingredients are Key: While the Jello needs boiling water, ensure your pineapple juice and additional cold water are well-chilled before mixing. This helps the punch freeze more consistently and quickly.
• Patience with Thawing: Don’t rush the thawing process. Removing the punch 2-4 hours before serving (or even 5-6 hours if it’s a very large, dense block) is crucial for achieving that perfect slushy, scoopable texture. If it’s still too solid, let it sit a bit longer at room temperature or gently break it up with a sturdy spoon.
• Taste and Adjust Sweetness: Before freezing, taste your Jello and juice mixture. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more sugar. If it’s too sweet, a splash of lemon or lime juice can balance it out.
• Ginger Ale Last: Always add the ginger ale (or other fizzy component) right before serving. This preserves its carbonation and ensures maximum effervescence in every glass.
• Consider a Punch Ladle: A good punch ladle makes serving much easier, especially with the slushy consistency.
• Safety First: If adding alcohol, make sure to clearly label the punch for adult guests, especially if a non-alcoholic version is also being served.

More Holiday Drink Recipes to Explore

Looking to expand your repertoire of festive beverages? Here are some other delightful holiday drink recipes from my collection that are sure to impress your guests and add extra sparkle to your celebrations:

• Cranberry Mimosas: A vibrant, bubbly classic with a holiday twist.
• Winter White Cosmo: A sophisticated and elegant cocktail, perfect for a chic winter party.
• Cranberry Gin Cocktail: Refreshing and crisp, showcasing the lovely flavors of gin and tart cranberry.
• Mistletoe Margarita: A festive take on a favorite, bringing holiday cheer to every sip.
• Christmas Sangria: A beautiful, fruit-filled pitcher drink that’s easy to make for a crowd.

4.37 from 11 votes

Frozen Holiday Punch

By Erin Sellin

This frozen holiday punch is an easy make-ahead party punch that the whole family can enjoy! Make it with fizzy ginger ale, pineapple juice, and cherry-flavored Jello.

Prep: 5 minutes mins

Total: 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Pin Recipe Rate Recipe Print Recipe

Ingredients 

• ▢ 1 (6 oz) cherry jello
• ▢ 3/4 cup sugar
• ▢ 2 cups boiling water
• ▢ 1 (46 oz) can pineapple juice
• ▢ 6 cups cold water
• ▢ 2 liters ginger ale

Instructions 

• In a very large pitcher, punch bowl, or bowl mix together jello, sugar, and boiling water. Once completely dissolved stir in pineapple juice and water.
• Place in freezer over night.
• Remove from freezer a few hours before ready to serve. Add ginger ale when ready to serve.

Notes

Recipe from Taste Of Home

Can freeze in a large block or you can pour into ice cube trays or smaller amounts. 

Nutrition

Serving: 12Servings | Calories: 124kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Sodium: 39mg | Sugar: 32g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

Course: Drink Recipes

Cuisine: American

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 124

Keyword: holiday punch

Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!

Save

I’ve created a fun and vibrant community on Facebook, and I’d be absolutely thrilled for you to join us! It’s a wonderful space where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask questions, connect with other food enthusiasts, and stay updated on all the new and exciting recipes from Dinners, Dishes and Desserts (so you never miss out on a delicious idea)!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU make and share!

Don’t want to miss a single post? Be sure to follow me on all my social media channels:

Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

.