Cherry Egg Nog Punch
A festive, creamy punch combining cherry, vanilla, and egg nog flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings and crowd-pleasing celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs and milk together in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture through, but do not boil, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and add sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and halved or quartered maraschino cherries.
- Chill until very cold, preferably overnight.
- When ready to serve, add the vanilla ice cream and very cold lemon-lime soda to a punch bowl.
- Pour the chilled egg nog over the mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, whip the cream until soft peaks form before folding it into the punch. If maraschino cherries aren't available, you can substitute with fresh cherries or frozen ones. Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference, especially if using flavored soda. Ensure all ingredients are well chilled to enhance the punch's refreshing quality.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cherry Egg Nog Punch in festive glasses for a holiday gathering or family celebration. It pairs beautifully with dessert options like Maxine's Chess Pie or can be enjoyed alongside savory appetizers. Garnish with extra maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover punch in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The ice cream may melt, but you can re-chill the mixture before serving again. If you want to save the egg nog mixture separately, keep it in a sealed container for up to 3 days, and add the soda and ice cream just before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Egg Nog Punch contains roughly 2052 calories, with 16g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 174g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (223% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1988mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this punch ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the egg nog mixture a day in advance and chill it overnight. Just remember to add the ice cream and soda right before serving to maintain the punch's frothy texture and carbonation.
Is this punch suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This Cherry Egg Nog Punch is a fun, festive drink that kids can enjoy since it doesn't contain any alcohol. The whipped cream and ice cream make it a delightful treat for all ages.
What can I substitute for the lemon-lime soda?
If you prefer a less sweet option, you can use club soda or sparkling water for a lighter version. Alternatively, ginger ale can add a nice spice to the punch, creating a unique flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).