Frozen Christmas Punch
Michelle Jeffery is VPR's Communications Producer.
Bananas, lemonade, and pineapple juice may not be the typical flavors of Christmas, but my childhood friend and mentor Cynthia always served this non-alcoholic frozen punch at her annual Christmas open house. I’ve worked my entire life to emulate her good nature, sense of humor, and generosity of spirit. It’s a lot to ask of a bowl of half-thawed fruity goodness, but enjoying it in this season of fellowship and reflection reminds me of her - and the kind of person I strive to be.
2 cups sugar
4 cups water
2 quarts pineapple juice
1 can (12 oz) frozen orange juice, prepared according to package directions
1 can (12 oz) frozen lemonade, prepared according to package directions
5 large bananas, pureed
2 quarts ginger ale
Combine sugar and water in sauce pan, bring to a boil, and stir until sugar is dissolved. Cool. Combine all ingredients except the ginger ale and freeze (gallon size freezer bags work well).
Before serving, remove from freezer and allow to thaw slightly. Put in punch bowl and add ginger ale. Stir and serve.
Makes about 50 servings.
Bananas, lemonade, and pineapple juice may not be the typical flavors of Christmas, but my childhood friend and mentor Cynthia always served this non-alcoholic frozen punch at her annual Christmas open house. I’ve worked my entire life to emulate her good nature, sense of humor, and generosity of spirit. It’s a lot to ask of a bowl of half-thawed fruity goodness, but enjoying it in this season of fellowship and reflection reminds me of her - and the kind of person I strive to be.
2 cups sugar
4 cups water
2 quarts pineapple juice
1 can (12 oz) frozen orange juice, prepared according to package directions
1 can (12 oz) frozen lemonade, prepared according to package directions
5 large bananas, pureed
2 quarts ginger ale
Combine sugar and water in sauce pan, bring to a boil, and stir until sugar is dissolved. Cool. Combine all ingredients except the ginger ale and freeze (gallon size freezer bags work well).
Before serving, remove from freezer and allow to thaw slightly. Put in punch bowl and add ginger ale. Stir and serve.
Makes about 50 servings.