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This DIY Holiday Slush Drink brings tons of fun to winter gatherings. Mix tart cranberry juice with sweet orange juice and tangy lemonade concentrate, then top it off with bubbly cherry lemon-lime soda for a cool frozen drink everyone can enjoy. It's super refreshing, looks amazing in glasses, and packs all those yummy fruit flavors that kids and adults will both love.
What Makes This Drink So Special
You'll fall in love with how this drink balances sharp cranberry with juicy orange and zingy lemon, finished with fizzy soda that makes every sip exciting. You can make it way ahead of time, which frees you up to handle other party stuff. Need to serve a big crowd? No problem! This drink scales up easily and looks way prettier than regular alcoholic options.
What You'll Need for Holiday Slush
- For the Base Mixture:
- 4 cups cranberry juice (go for 100% juice if you can)
- 2 cups orange juice
- 2 cans (12 oz each) frozen lemonade concentrate
- When You're Ready to Serve:
- 1-2 liters cherry lemon-lime soda
- Ice cream scoop to dish it up
- Pretty holiday glasses
- Pretty Extras:
- Some fresh cranberries
- Slices of orange
- Fresh mint sprigs
- Sugar-coated cranberries (if you want)
How to Make Your Holiday Slush
- Blend Your Liquids
- Grab a big bowl and pour in your cranberry juice, orange juice, and thawed lemonade concentrate. Mix everything until the concentrate totally melts in.
- Let It Set Up
- Pour the liquid into a container that can go in the freezer. Leave it there overnight or at least 8 hours, giving it a stir now and then if you remember.
- Get Ready to Serve
- Take the slush out about 10 minutes before party time so it softens a bit. Make sure your soda is cold and your garnishes are ready.
- Build Your Drinks
- Use your ice cream scoop to fill glasses halfway with the frozen mix. Pour the cherry lemon-lime soda on top until the glass is full and bubbly.
- Add Final Touches
- Toss in some cranberries, orange slices, or mint leaves on top. Serve right away while it's still fizzy and slushy.
Tricks for the Best Results
Always pick 100% juice for better taste. Get your soda super cold before you mix drinks. Don't leave the slush out—put it back in the freezer between servings. For the smoothest texture, stir it once or twice while it's freezing. If it gets too hard, just let it sit out for a few minutes until you can scoop it again.
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Ways to Present Your Drink
Set up a fun drink bar with your frozen mixture, cold soda, and all the fancy extras. Try using both plain and sugar-rimmed glasses. Match your straw colors to your Christmas decorations. If you're having lots of people over, fill glasses with slush ahead of time and keep them in the freezer for quick serving. These drinks go great with Christmas sweets or party snacks.
Keeping It Fresh and Planning Ahead
Your slush base will stay good in the freezer for up to a month. Just keep it in a sealed container and give it a mix every now and then. Only add the soda when you're about to drink it. You can make huge batches and split them into different containers. If it freezes too solid, just let it warm up a little before scooping.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can I keep the mixture frozen?
- Let it freeze overnight for the best results, but you can store it in the freezer for several days before serving.
- → Why melt the sugar in hot water first?
- It helps dissolve the sugar better, forming a syrup that blends smoother into the drink without any gritty bits.
- → Is this drink suitable for all ages?
- Yes, it’s a non-alcoholic option that’s perfect for anyone, kids and adults alike, at festive events.
- → What’s the best way to serve it?
- Scrape the frozen mixture with a fork, scoop it into glasses, and pour cherry lemon-lime soda over the top. Garnish if you'd like.
- → Can I swap out the fruit juices?
- You can, but the original mix gives it that signature holiday taste. Try with other juices if you're feeling creative!