Holiday Punch With Brandy Cocktail Recipe

Holiday gatherings just feel more festive when there’s a big, inviting bowl of punch on the table. There’s something about everyone dipping in for a glass that makes the whole thing warmer.

Holiday Punch with Brandy is a straightforward cocktail, mixing bright fruit flavors with that smooth, cozy kick of brandy. It’s honestly perfect for Christmas or just about any winter get-together.

What I love here is how the punch brings together the warmth of brandy and the sweetness of fruit juices. It’s cheerful, not overpowering, so it works as a holiday cocktail—or even as a rum punch if you want to change things up.

This recipe makes plenty for a group, which means you’re not stuck mixing drinks all night. That’s a relief, right?

You’ll see, it’s really easy to throw together with just a handful of ingredients and some basic tools. Prepping it ahead of time is the real bonus—more time to actually enjoy the party instead of being stuck behind the counter.

Holiday Punch With Brandy Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this punch because it hits that sweet spot: not too sweet, a little tart, and just bubbly enough. The combo of brandy, fruit juices, and sparkling wine makes it a breeze to serve a crowd.

Equipment

Honestly, I don’t bother with fancy bar tools for this. Just the basics to mix and serve a big batch.

• Punch bowl or large pitcher – Needs to be big enough for everything, including the fruit.
• Ladle – Way easier (and less messy) for serving.
• Measuring cups – For both liquids and dry stuff.
• Cutting board and knife – To slice up oranges, lemons, or apples.
• Mixing spoon – Something long enough to reach the bottom of the bowl.
• Ice mold or large ice cubes – Keeps things cold without watering it down too fast.

I’ll say, a clear punch bowl always looks the best since you can see all the colors swirling around. And don’t skimp on a sturdy ladle—once that punch is full, it gets heavy.

Ingredients

I try to stick with fresh juices and good spirits. The mix of brandy, sparkling wine, and fruit juice is what really gives it that depth and brightness.

• 2 cups brandy
• 1 cup dark rum
• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup simple syrup (taste and adjust)
• 1 bottle dry sparkling wine or champagne
• 2 cups ginger ale
• 2–3 cinnamon sticks
• Sliced oranges, lemons, and apples for garnish
• Ice block or large cubes

I always play with the simple syrup a bit—sometimes less, sometimes a touch more. The ginger ale adds fizz and helps mellow out the punch from the brandy and rum.

Instructions

I usually prep the punch in stages, just so the flavors have time to mingle. Chilling the ingredients first? That’s key for keeping it cold.

• Add brandy, dark rum, cranberry juice, apple cider, orange juice, and simple syrup to the punch bowl.
• Give it a good stir with a long spoon until everything’s mixed.
• Toss in the sliced fruit and cinnamon sticks for both flavor and looks.
• Chill it in the fridge for at least an hour if you can swing it.
• Right before serving, pour in the sparkling wine and ginger ale.
• Add a big ice block or a bunch of large cubes so it stays cold without getting watered down.

I always wait until the last minute to add the sparkling wine. Gotta keep those bubbles, right?

Notes

Dry sparkling wine or champagne works way better than the sweeter kinds. It keeps the punch from turning into a sugar bomb.

If I want it lighter, I’ll just splash in more ginger ale. Feeling bold? A little extra brandy never hurt.

Fresh fruit slices aren’t just for looks—they add flavor as they soak. Cinnamon sticks are my go-to for a warm, spicy note, especially when it’s cold out.

This recipe easily serves a group, but you can always halve it if you’re hosting something smaller. I always taste before serving, just to tweak the sweetness or strength if it needs it.

Tasting Notes

So, when I take that first sip, the brandy is the first thing that jumps out at me. There’s this warmth—smooth, almost like a hug in a glass—that really balances out the sweetness of the punch.

The alcohol isn’t trying to steal the show, though. It just gives everything a cozy depth that I find pretty inviting.

The fruit juices? They’re bright and fresh, no question about it. I get that tart citrus kick, which slices right through the richer notes from the brandy.

There’s enough sweetness from the other juices to keep things from getting too sharp. It’s mellow, sort of rounds out the edges.

I pick up a light spice in the background, too. It’s not in your face, just a gentle warmth that makes the whole thing feel a little more interesting.

Honestly, I love how that spice lingers for a moment after each sip. It’s subtle, but it’s there.

As for texture, it’s got a crisp feel—especially if I throw in some soda or sparkling water. That fizz really perks up the punch and makes it super refreshing, especially if it’s ice-cold.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what stands out to me:

• Brandy: smooth, warm, just a touch sweet
• Citrus juice: tart, bright, totally fresh
• Other juices: sweet, fruity, mellow
• Spices: gentle, warm, quietly present
• Sparkle (if added): crisp, refreshing, light