Tossing together big batches of pretty punch is one of the must-do's for a party. And this bright, sparkling Hibiscus Ginger Lemonade is perfect for such.
With a touch of natural tartness, floral hibiscus lends both beautiful flavor and stunning color to honey-sweetened lemon juice. Vodka can be added, to make this one boozy. Or keep it kid-friendly, omitting the booze.
Then top off with gingerale, and call your favorite people over. Punch is served, and it's a darned purty pitcher of such.
The first part of this recipe--the hibiscus-lemonade syrup can be easily made ahead of time. Feel free to prep that part up to 48 hours in advance, storing it in a mason jar and keeping it in the fridge until ready to mix.
Then assemble it all over ice, pour in ginger soda (or sparkling water, if you're watching your calories).
Then share and celebrate. This simple recipe is a crowd-pleasing favorite. I can't help but think of Steel Magnolias when I see pitchers:
Truvy: What are your colors, Shelby?
Shelby: My colors are "blush" and "bashful."
M'Lynn: Her colors are "pink" and pink."
Shelby: My colors are "blush" and "bashful" Mama!
M'Lynn: How precious is this weddin' gonna get, I ask you?
Call it whatever you please. Pink. Blush. Bashful.
In every way, the word for this punch is: pretty.
Pretty pleasing on the eyes, and totally tasty on the tongue.
Cheers, you!
Hibiscus Ginger Lemonade Party Punch
8 servings | 20 mins
- 1 cup Volcano Lemon Juice
- 1 cup raw honey
- 3 Tbsp dried hibiscus petals
- 4-5 drops pure almond extract
- 1 cups vodka (optional)*
- 1 liters gingerale*
- lots of ice
In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, honey and hibiscus petals. Heat until honey is dissolved and petals turn mixture bright pink. If desired, strain petals from mixture. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Whisk in vodka, if using.
Pour mixture into a large pitcher, top off with ice and gingerale.
*NOTE: Depending on how much punch you need, feel free to toss in a second cup of vodka and another liter of gingerale. For a less sweet option, top off with sparkling water, instead of gingerale. This punch also tastes lovely with 1/4 cup creme de violette stirred in.