Countdown to Christmas: 9 Sleeps

Holiday Punch

A great staple to have for parties, I leave my punch "virgin" (without alcohol), and leave out various bottles of liquor for people to add their own Christmas spirit (gin is always a favourite). A quick and easy drink to serve to a crowd.

I must admit, in the chaos leading up to our holiday party this year, I forgot to take a picture! You'll have to trust me - this punch is a beautiful pink colour, and the addition of an ice ring filled with orange slices and cranberries really makes it look festive!

1 can citrus juice concentrate, melted (5-alive is best, lemonade works well too)

1 can fruit juice concentrate, melted

2-2L bottles ginger ale

1. In a large punch bowl, combine all ingredients just before party. Gently stir to combine.

2. Add ice ring, just before serving. An ice ring will take much longer to melt, so your punch will not become too watery and stay colder, longer.

For Ice Ring:

1 orange, sliced

1 cup fresh cranberries

water

1. Layer a few cranberries in the bottom of a bundt pan. Top with orange slices. Add just enough water to cover the orange slices (cranberries float, so don't add too much water!). Freeze first layer.
2. Add more orange slices and cranberries, and top with more water. Freeze again.
3. If desired, add more water for a third layer of ice.
4. Pop out of bundt-pan* and add to punch just before serving.

*If you have a silicon bundt-pan, it will make your life a million times easier - just pop out the ring right before serving. If not, line a metal pan with plastic wrap, to help pull the ice from the pan when ready.