Grinchy Pineapple Punch Cocktail Recipe

Honestly, I’ve always been a sucker for drinks that bring a little extra fun to a holiday party. The Grinchy Pineapple Punch is probably my go-to—it’s juicy, bright green, and just looks so festive on the table.

This cocktail is sweet, tangy, and super easy to throw together. It’s the kind of drink that gets people talking, or at least asking for seconds.

I’m all about quick recipes that don’t take all day and still manage to make people smile. If you’re looking for something that’s both simple and a little bit special, this punch might be the thing for your next get-together.

Grinchy Pineapple Punch Cocktail Recipe

There’s something about this bright green drink that just feels right for holiday parties. The pineapple juice gives it a tart kick, and the Sprite adds a bubbly, refreshing twist.

Kids love the red sanding sugar on the rim—adults, too, honestly—and that scoop of lime sherbet is what really makes it pop.

Equipment

• Large pitcher or punch bowl
• Long spoon for mixing
• Measuring cups
• Glass cups or punch glasses
• Small plate (for sanding sugar)
• Ice scoop or ice tongs
• Ladle (if using a punch bowl)

You don’t need anything fancy here. I just make sure the pitcher or bowl is big enough, because adding the soda and sherbet can fill things up fast.

A scoop for the ice or sherbet is handy—otherwise, you might end up with sticky fingers.

Ingredients

• 4 cups pineapple juice
• 2 cups lemon-lime soda (Sprite works best)
• 1 cup ginger ale
• 2-3 scoops lime sherbet
• 1-2 tablespoons red sanding sugar
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Ice cubes

Pineapple juice is the star here, for sure. Sprite and ginger ale bring the fizz and sweetness, and the lime sherbet is what turns the punch that perfect Grinchy green.

The red sanding sugar is just for fun and looks, but it really does make each glass feel a little more festive.

Instructions

• Pour pineapple juice into a large pitcher or punch bowl.
• Add lemon-lime soda (Sprite) and ginger ale, stirring gently so it stays fizzy.
• Scoop in lime sherbet and give it a swirl to get that green color going.
• Chill your glasses. On a small plate, spread out the red sanding sugar.
• Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip the rim into the sanding sugar to coat it.
• Add ice cubes to the glasses.
• Ladle the punch into each glass and serve right away.

I try not to over-mix so it keeps some fizz. And honestly, serving it quickly is best—the sherbet is at its prettiest before it melts.

Notes

Sometimes I toss in extra lime sherbet if I want more green or a sweeter punch. If I’m feeling like it’s a little too sweet, I’ll swap in more ginger ale and cut back on the Sprite.

For parties with kids, I keep it non-alcoholic, but if it’s just adults, a splash of coconut rum or vodka works surprisingly well.

The sanding sugar is cute, but if you’re short on time or just not feeling it, you can skip it. Lime wedges make a nice garnish too.

I always chill the sodas ahead of time so I don’t have to use too much ice—otherwise, the punch gets watery. And if you need more or less, you can easily double or halve the recipe.

Tasting Notes

With that first sip, the pineapple juice jumps out at me—bright, juicy, and just the right kind of sweet. It’s not heavy or syrupy at all.

Honestly, the drink feels light enough that I could go back for another glass without thinking twice. That’s rare for something so fruity.

There’s this gentle tartness from the lime juice that helps keep things in check. It stops the sweetness from taking over and gives the punch a fresh, lively edge.

A soft citrus aroma wafts up as soon as I lift the glass. It’s subtle, but it really makes the whole experience a bit more inviting.

Whenever I go with coconut rum, there’s a mellow tropical vibe in the background. It’s not in-your-face coconut, just enough to remind me of vacations by the beach.

The coconut blends in nicely with the pineapple, never stealing the spotlight. That balance is honestly kind of impressive.

If I toss in a red cherry and rim the glass with green sugar, there’s this playful candy note and a satisfying little crunch. It’s a small detail, but it makes the punch way more fun.

Plus, that pop of green really makes each glass look festive.

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