A few weeks ago I found a wonderful punch jar at a thrift store for $10. I walked away at first, but my husband and I agreed we needed to go back and get it. We love hosting outdoor barbecues, and the jar seemed perfect for serving a big, colorful drink that everyone could enjoy.
The next weekend happened to be full of birthday celebrations, so I decided to try the punch. It was an instant hit. Guests commented on the bright color and the fun presentation. My grandmother liked the jar so much she nearly walked out with it, while my dad tried to take home the leftover punch. It turned into one of those party details that people remembered long after the cake was eaten.
I was inspired by a recipe I saw on another family food blog. I liked how using raspberry sherbet in that version creates a vivid pink hue. My store didn’t have raspberry sherbet, so I used rainbow sherbet instead, which added a lovely mix of flavors and a softer color. I also used a diet lemon-lime soda to keep the drink lighter and less sweet, but regular soda works well if you prefer more sweetness.
This sherbet punch is extremely easy to prepare and adapts well to a variety of gatherings — from casual weekend barbecues to birthday parties. The basic idea is very simple: combine soda with scoops of sherbet, add ice, and float citrus slices on top for extra flavor and a pretty presentation. Below you’ll find the recipe as I make it, along with a few serving tips and variations to help you tailor it to your event.
Sherbet Punch Drink
Ingredients
-
2
two-liter bottles (about 2 liters)
of Diet Sierra Mist
You can use regular lemon-lime soda if you prefer a sweeter punch. -
1
tub of rainbow sherbet
Alternatively, use raspberry sherbet for a brighter color. -
Slices
of lemons, grapefruits, and oranges
Use any combination of citrus you like for visual appeal and extra flavor. -
Ice
To keep the punch chilled, add ice to the jar and to individual glasses as needed.
Instructions
-
Pour both two-liter bottles of lemon-lime soda into the punch jar or large pitcher. Add several ice cubes to keep the mixture chilled.
-
Scoop enough sherbet to float on top so it covers the surface; gently stir just enough to incorporate a bit of the sherbet into the soda, creating a creamy, fizzy texture.
-
Arrange slices of lemon, grapefruit, and orange on the top of the punch and around the jar for flavor and decoration. Serve in cups with an extra scoop of sherbet on top if desired.
-
If you are using a serving jar like the one pictured, ladle the punch into cups and add an additional scoop of sherbet to each glass for an extra-special presentation.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
Serving
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Tips, Variations, and Storage
Tips:
– Use a chilled jar or pitcher so the punch stays cold longer.
– If you prefer less fizz, pour the soda gently down the side of the jar.
– For a non-carbonated version, substitute ginger ale or a citrus-flavored sparkling water to control the sweetness.
Variations:
– Substitute raspberry sherbet for a brighter color and a fruitier taste.
– Add fresh berries or frozen fruit cubes for visual interest and added flavor.
– For an adult version, stir in a splash of clear spirit to individual servings to taste.
Storage:
– Prepare the punch shortly before serving for best texture; sherbet will melt and alter the consistency if left too long.
– Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for a short time, but the carbonation will diminish and the sherbet will continue to melt.