This Peppermint Eggnog Punch is a holiday party hit that tastes like Christmas in a cup. It’s creamy, minty, bubbly, and super easy to make.
No cooking, no fancy tools—just pour, stir, and enjoy. It’s great for small get-togethers, big family dinners, or when you just want a festive treat on a cold day.
You’re going to love how simple and delicious this is.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this for a last-minute holiday gathering, and it was gone in minutes. Everyone kept going back for more—even folks who say they don’t like eggnog! Since then, it’s become a yearly tradition.
- Only takes 5 minutes
- No cooking required
- Festive and so pretty!
- Tastes like minty vanilla ice cream meets holiday cheer
- Perfect for holiday parties or just a cozy night in
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups eggnog (chilled)
- 2 cups peppermint ice cream (slightly softened)
- 2 cups ginger ale (chilled)
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Extra crushed candy canes (for garnish)
- Optional: mini candy canes for the rim
Tools You’ll Need
- Large round glass punch bowl
- Large mixing spoon or ladle
- Ice cream scoop
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk (optional)
- Serving glasses or cups
Pro Tips
- Use peppermint ice cream that’s slightly soft—it blends better.
- Crush candy canes in a ziplock with a rolling pin for easy cleanup.
- Chill your punch bowl beforehand for extra cold punch.
- Don’t over-stir after adding the ginger ale—you want to keep it fizzy.
- Serve immediately after mixing to keep the bubbles fresh.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap peppermint ice cream for vanilla + extra peppermint extract.
- Use club soda or lemon-lime soda instead of ginger ale.
- Add a splash of white chocolate liqueur for an adult version.
- Dairy-free? Use almond nog and dairy-free peppermint ice cream.
Make Ahead Tips
You can scoop out the peppermint ice cream into a bowl and keep it in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before making the punch, so it’s the perfect soft texture for mixing. Don’t add ginger ale until just before serving to keep it bubbly.
Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Add Eggnog to the Punch Bowl
Pour 4 cups of chilled eggnog into your large punch bowl.
Step 2: Add Slightly Softened Peppermint Ice Cream
Add 2 cups of slightly softened peppermint ice cream into the punch bowl. Use an ice cream scoop for easy portioning.
Step 3: Stir Until Creamy
Use a spoon or whisk to gently stir the ice cream into the eggnog until mostly combined but still creamy.
Step 4: Add Peppermint Extract
Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the bowl and give it a quick stir.
Step 5: Pour in Ginger Ale
Slowly pour 2 cups of chilled ginger ale into the bowl to add some sparkle.
Step 6: Sprinkle in Crushed Candy Canes
Add 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes and stir gently.
Step 7: Top with Whipped Cream and Garnish
Top with whipped cream and a few more crushed candy canes. Add mini candy canes on the rim if you’d like.
Leftovers and Storage
If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The fizz will go flat, but the flavor will still be great. Give it a quick stir before serving again. Don’t freeze—dairy and soda don’t hold up well.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The fat in the eggnog and ice cream gives the punch a rich, creamy texture that balances out the sharp peppermint. Ginger ale adds carbonation, giving it that light, fizzy lift. The crushed candy canes not only give a pop of red color but slowly melt into the drink, adding a sweet peppermint layer.
Common Mistakes
- Using rock-hard ice cream: Let it soften first, or it won’t blend smoothly.
- Adding ginger ale too early: Wait until the end so it stays fizzy.
- Over-mixing: Gentle stirring keeps the punch creamy without killing the bubbles.
- Not chilling ingredients: Warm punch is a no-go. Keep everything cold.
What to Serve With
- Christmas cookies (sugar, gingerbread, or peppermint bark)
- Mini cheese boards or sweet-and-savory snack trays
- Warm cinnamon rolls or scones
- Holiday brunch items like quiche or breakfast casseroles
FAQ
Can I make it without soda?
Yes! You can use sparkling water or just skip it for a creamier drink.
Can I use vanilla ice cream instead of peppermint?
Yep—just add more peppermint extract or crushed candy canes.
Is it gluten-free?
Most eggnog and soda brands are, but double-check the labels to be safe.
Can I make this in advance?
You can prep the ice cream and eggnog mix, but wait to add the soda and toppings until just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Peppermint Eggnog Punch is everything you want in a holiday drink—sweet, minty, creamy, and festive. It comes together fast and looks beautiful on the table. Whether you’re hosting or just looking to treat yourself, it’s a little glass of holiday magic. Give it a try, and let me know how it goes in the comments!
