Sparkling Cranberry Cider Punch
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If you’re looking for a quick and festive addition to your Christmas party, this Sparkling Cranberry Cider Punch is a crowd-pleasing winner. With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up a cheerful holiday drink that’s bubbly, refreshing, and full of seasonal flavor.
To make it, combine one bottle of sparkling apple cider, a 2-liter of Sprite Zero, and two cans of frozen cranberry juice concentrate. Stir everything together in a large punch bowl or beverage dispenser—just make sure it holds at least 2 gallons to accommodate the full batch.
For a beautiful finishing touch, toss in a handful of frozen cranberries. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also help keep the punch chilled without diluting the flavor. I like to keep a bowl of ice on the side, so guests can add it to their cups before pouring the punch. This way, the drink stays crisp and flavorful from the first sip to the last.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or a full-blown holiday bash, this punch is a festive favorite that comes together in minutes—and disappears just as fast!
Ingredients for Sparkling Cranberry Apple Cider Punch
- MARINELLI’S SPARKLING APPLE CIDER
- SPRITE ZERO
- FROZEN CRANBERRY JUICE CONCENTRATE
- FRESH CRANBERRIES, FROZEN (OPTIONAL FOR PRESENTATION)
Instructions for Sparkling Apple Cider Cranberry Punch
Grab a 2-gallon punch bowl or beverage dispenser, and pour in the sparkling apple cider, Sprite Zero, and thawed cranberry juice concentrate. Give it a gentle stir until everything is well combined and beautifully bubbly.
For a festive touch, toss in a handful of frozen cranberries—they’ll float like ornaments and help keep the punch chilled. When serving, fill individual glasses halfway with ice, then pour the punch over the top. This keeps the drink crisp without watering it down. Makes about 2 gallons, perfect for holiday gatherings and cheerful toasts!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this punch ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the ingredients a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Just add the frozen cranberries right before serving to keep it chilled and festive.
Can I use regular Sprite instead of Sprite Zero?
Absolutely. Sprite Zero keeps it lighter, but regular Sprite or any lemon-lime soda works just as well.
Do I need to thaw the cranberry juice concentrate first?
Yes, thawing helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or run the cans under warm water for a quicker option.
What if I don’t have a 2-gallon punch bowl?
You can split the punch between two smaller pitchers or use a beverage dispenser. Just make sure the total capacity is around 2 gallons to hold everything comfortably.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Yes, but frozen cranberries help chill the punch without watering it down. If using fresh, consider adding ice or refrigerating the punch longer before serving.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Apple Cider Punch
- Chilled Spiced Cider Punch
- Slow Cooker Cranberry Apple Cider
- Hot Cranberry Orange Cider
Sparkling Cranberry Cider Punch
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 25.4 oz bottle Martinelli's sparkling apple cider
- 2 liter bottle Sprite Zero
- 24 oz frozen cranberry juice concentrate thawed
- fresh cranberries frozen (optional for presentation)
Instructions
- In a 2 gallon punch bowl or beverage dispenser add the sparkling cider, Sprie, and thawed juice concentrate. Stir to combine.
- Add in frozen cranberries if desired. Serve over individual glasses filled halfway with ice. Makes 2 gallons of punch.
Nutrition
Recipe adapted from Life in a Lofthouse.
