If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday festivities, Christmas Coffee Punch is about to become your new celebration tradition. This creamy, dreamy, coffee-infused punch is equal parts decadent dessert and cheerful sipper, bringing together strong brewed coffee, lush ice cream, and a gentle hit of vanilla. Whether you’re starting Christmas morning with family or capping off a holiday party with friends, every ladleful of this punch is festive bliss in a mug. The flavors are nostalgic and cozy, yet just unusual enough to guarantee delighted guests and requests for the recipe. Let’s mix up some holiday magic!

Christmas Coffee Punch Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Coffee Punch:
- 2 cups strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1 quart whole milk
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream
- 1 quart coffee ice cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream for topping
- Ground nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish

How to Make Christmas Coffee Punch

Step 1: Brew and Chill the Coffee

Start by brewing two cups of strong coffee. It’s important to let it cool completely; this keeps your punch from melting the ice cream too quickly. If you want to prep ahead, pop the coffee in the refrigerator so it’s icy cold when you’re ready to assemble.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a big punch bowl or your fanciest festive pitcher, pour in the chilled coffee, whole milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves—nobody likes a grainy punch. This base sets the stage for those creamy, layered flavors you’re about to create.

Step 3: Add the Ice Cream

Now for the fun part! Scoop generous balls of vanilla and coffee ice cream into the bowl. Some will float, some will melt and swirl into the punch, and all of it will create creamy ribbons. Let the ice cream soften slightly for a luxurious texture, but not so much that it loses its rich, cold appeal.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Right before serving, crown your Christmas Coffee Punch with whipped cream and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. This makes the punch extra special and gives every cup a hint of classic holiday flavor. Ladle into mugs or punch cups and serve immediately so everyone enjoys the mix of cold and creamy.

How to Serve Christmas Coffee Punch

Garnishes

Garnishing is your chance to get festive! Pile on snowy peaks of whipped cream just before serving, and add a light sprinkle of ground nutmeg or cinnamon for both aroma and a wintry look. For even more cheer, try adding chocolate shavings or a stick of cinnamon to each glass.

Side Dishes

Christmas Coffee Punch loves a sweet sidekick! Pair it with buttery shortbread cookies, chocolate truffles, gingerbread, or even a platter of classic coffee cakes. The creamy punch acts as a dessert on its own but also shines alongside a variety of holiday treats.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take your presentation up a notch, serve the punch in vintage glass mugs or small mason jars. For a kids’ table, offer fun straws or mini candy canes for stirring. You can even rim the cups with colored sugar or cocoa powder for an extra jolly touch. A punch ladle and a big bowl allow guests to help themselves, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Christmas Coffee Punch left after your gathering, transfer it into a lidded container and refrigerate. The ice cream will melt into the punch, making it even creamier. It’s best enjoyed within two days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for this punch once mixed, as the texture may become icy and separate when thawed. However, you can freeze brewed coffee ahead in ice cube trays for an extra-chilly, never-watered-down punch when mixing fresh.

Reheating

Since Christmas Coffee Punch is meant to be served cold and creamy, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply give leftover punch a good stir and pour over fresh ice or add another scoop of ice cream to recapture its deliciously frosty vibe.

FAQs

Can I make Christmas Coffee Punch without ice cream?

Ice cream is the heart of this punch, adding both texture and sweetness, but you could substitute with a rich coffee creamer or non-dairy ice cream if needed. The result will be a little lighter, but still tasty.

Is it possible to make this punch dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based milk and dairy-free ice creams. Coconut or oat milk work particularly well for their creamy texture, and there are plenty of delicious vegan ice cream options out there.

What’s the best way to make this punch boozy?

For an adults-only twist, stir in a splash of coffee liqueur or Irish cream just before serving. Start with 1/4 cup and taste as you go—just enough to add warmth, but not so much it overpowers the classic flavors.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Christmas Coffee Punch scales up easily. Just double (or triple) all the ingredients and use the biggest punch bowl you have. It’s perfect for parties, open houses, or any merry get-together.

How far ahead can I prepare Christmas Coffee Punch?

You can mix the coffee, milk, sugar, and vanilla up to a day in advance and chill it. Add the ice cream and toppings just before serving so the texture stays wonderfully creamy and special.

Final Thoughts

If you want to create a cozy, memorable holiday moment, you simply must try Christmas Coffee Punch. It’s festive, totally indulgent, and guaranteed to bring grins to every guest. Mix up a batch this season—and let the merry memories begin!

Christmas Coffee Punch Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 19 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with this creamy and rich Christmas Coffee Punch. Made with a blend of coffee, milk, and two types of ice cream, this holiday drink is a delightful treat for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Coffee Punch:

2 cups strong brewed coffee (cooled)
1 quart whole milk
1 quart vanilla ice cream
1 quart coffee ice cream
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

Whipped cream for topping
Ground nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Coffee Punch: In a large punch bowl, mix cooled brewed coffee, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until sugar dissolves.
Add Ice Cream: Scoop vanilla and coffee ice cream into the bowl, allowing them to melt slightly.
Top and Serve: Before serving, add whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon. Ladle into mugs and enjoy chilled.