There’s nothing like a holiday punch to make a gathering feel both timeless and special. This season, we’re turning to whisky, apple cider, and a pinch of cinnamon warmth to create a simple, yet notable impression on your guests. And while the ingredients make the punch, it’s the right presentation—think glassware, garnishes, and a showstopping holiday ice mold—that makes it catch attention. Here’s your guide to making a holiday punch that will keep guests feeling welcomed, cozy, and just a little bit spirited.
Recipe: Holiday Bourbon Punch (8-10 servings)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups bourbon (choose a well-rounded, slightly spiced option)
- 4 cups apple cider
- ½ cup ginger liqueur
- 6 cinnamon sticks
- A large splash of sparkling water or champagne for some fizz, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large punch bowl with an ice mold (see below) or large amount of ice cubes, combine the bourbon, apple cider, and ginger liqueur.
- Add in the cinnamon sticks and stir to let the flavors meld for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Pour into glasses over holiday-themed ice cubes or standard ice, and garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick, a twist of orange peel, or a couple of fresh cranberries.
Presentation: The Perfect Glass
While any glass technically works, choosing one that complements your punch elevates the whole experience. If your punch has a bit of fizz, go for something with a stem, like our Roberta Punch Glasses, to keep it cold longer. For a heartier punch, try vintage-inspired rocks glasses to give your cocktail that “curl up by the fire” feel. Check out the Hobstar Double Old Fashioned Glasses.
Holiday Ice Molds: Showstoppers for Your Guests
A large holiday-themed ice mold makes the punch stand out visually and keeps the flavor concentrated, since it melts slower than standard ice cubes. Here are some seasonal ideas:
- Snowflake Ice Mold: Bring a winter wonderland feel to your punch bowl with delicate snowflake-shaped ice. The day before your gathering, fill our Snowflake Cake Pan with water and freeze overnight. Run some warm water over the back of the pan when it's time to assemble the punch and the ice should fall right out.
- Pomegranate and Cranberry Ice Ring: Freeze a mix of pomegranate seeds, cranberries, and a few rosemary sprigs into a circular bunt pan (give our Cut Crystal Bundt Pan a go)—this will add both color and flavor as it melts. When ready to use, carefully allow the ice to temper on a countertop for a moment or two before turning it out of the mold. Be sure to carefully place the ring in the center of your punch bowl (prior to adding the punch to the bowl) to avoid splashing.
- Star-Shaped Ice Cubes with Citrus Zest: Small, star-shaped molds with a hint of zest frozen inside will make each glass feel festive and fun.
Punch Garnishes and Ingredients
The beauty of a holiday punch is in the seasonal flavors and eye-catching garnishes. Here are some crowd-pleasers:
- Fresh Cranberries: They float beautifully and add a pop of color.
- Rosemary Sprigs: These lend an earthy aroma and make each sip feel festive.
- Sliced Oranges with Clove Studs: Not only do they look decorative, but they also add that extra warmth and spice to the drink.
- Star Anise Pods: Perfect for a touch of holiday flavor and striking visuals in each glass.
Hosting with a Punch
The best part of serving a holiday punch is that it frees you up to mingle and savor the festivities with your guests. Set up your punch station with all the garnishes nearby, encouraging everyone to create their own holiday cocktail. And don’t be surprised if the punch itself sparks conversations—especially when it comes with a story.
Our Punch Recipes Travel: From Cozy Gatherings to Big Celebrations
We’ve been lucky enough to take our punch recipes across the country, hosting private dinners and unforgettable celebrations for friends and family alike. From candlelit dinners in New York lofts to private toasts in stunning California properties, each event starts with the welcoming cocktail that sparks a vibe.
This holiday season, let the whisky punch kick off a season of warmth, fun, and flavor. And who knows? Maybe a new tradition will be born right in your own kitchen.