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This bubbly southern crowd-pleaser with pineapple sherbet just brings people together. It's creamy, cool, and packed with fruity flavor. Folks keep lining up for more, even if they claimed they didn't want any at first. It always gets smiles at birthdays, potlucks, or any big get-together.
Growing up, this punch popped up at every church function in the South. Those fizzy bubbles and bright colors meant something fun was kicking off. Now, my kids beg for it every single Easter morning.
Lively Ingredients
- Pineapple juice: totally the MVP—it’s got a sweet and tangy thing going on. Fresh “not from concentrate” works best but fancy bottles are cool, too
- Frozen lemonade concentrate: brings sharp, bright flavor to the mix. Get a brand you already trust for best results
- Frozen orange juice concentrate: gives the citrusy punch a boost. Hunt down a no-added-sugar kind if you care about that
- Pineapple sherbet: brings creamy, luscious tropical flair. Check labels for sherbet that actually has pineapple inside for big flavor
- Ginger ale, chilled: all that sparkle plus just enough spicy zip. If you like it bolder, grab a ginger-heavy kind, but regular does the trick
Easy Step-by-Step
- Chill Pineapple Juice:
- Stick the pineapple juice in your freezer a full day before so it turns icy-thick. That's what makes things extra frosty and fun later.
- Soften and Prep Juice Mixes:
- About two hours before you’re mixing, pull pineapple juice to soften. Prep orange and lemonade concentrates just like the cans say, using cold water for flavor that pops.
- Chunk It In the Bowl:
- Once guests are here, scoop soft pineapple juice and sherbet into a big bowl. Bust it up using a big spoon so you’ve got slushy, rough pieces.
- Pour in Citrus and Ale:
- Add your lemonade and orange blends on top of those frozen chunks. Dump lots of ginger ale over everything, then give it a gentle stir. You want a chilly, slushy punch—not totally smooth.
- Stir and Serve:
- Leave some sherbet and icy bits floating on top for that classic look. Right before you serve it up, give one more stir so you get foamy slush in every cup. Go quick—serve it while it’s still popping with fizz.
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Whenever I throw a party, the pineapple sherbet is the first thing gone. One time, my kid and his cousins sneaked in after the adults and left just melting slush for the rest of us.
How to Keep it Tasting Good
Stash leftovers in the fridge (up to three days) in a pitcher or something with a lid. If you want to save more, freeze it, then move to the fridge when you're ready—just stir well when it’s all melted again. For extra fizz, hold the ginger ale until right before you pour next time.
Switch-ups and Extras
No pineapple sherbet around? Lemon or orange sherbet swaps in easily—different vibe, but still delicious. Try lemon-lime soda instead of ginger ale for a brighter twist. Toss in canned pineapple for a fun touch.
Creative Ways to Serve
Put maraschino cherries or pineapple slices on top to make it fun. If you’re in the mood, heap on whipped cream or pass out curly straws for an old-school float kind of moment. I usually dig out my punch cups for a little nostalgia.
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Just a Little History
Showing up with one of these classic southern punches is pure comfort and tradition. Every potluck meant you’d spot this next to sheet cake, deviled eggs, and loads of laughs. Now it just feels like home, sharing it with people you love.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Can I prep this drink in advance?
You can cut and measure everything ahead of time, but keep the ginger ale on the side and mix it in only right before pouring to keep things bubbly.
- → Any swaps for pineapple sherbet?
If you don’t have pineapple sherbet, orange or lemon sherbet works. Even vanilla ice cream makes it super creamy and fun.
- → What’s the best way to keep leftovers?
Just pour what’s left into a pitcher, then stick it in the fridge up to three days. Give it a stir before pouring another drink.
- → Is it okay to freeze this?
Absolutely! Freeze leftovers for up to a month. Let them sit in the fridge to thaw and stir well to get the texture back.
- → Is this punch kid-friendly?
Yeah! This is all fun and fruit with no booze—kids and adults can both enjoy it.
- → How do I tone down or boost the sweetness?
If it’s too sweet, just add more juice or pour in extra ginger ale. You can also toss in some citrus slices for a bit of tartness.