Southern Mint Julep Celebration Punch
A refreshing and vibrant punch that embodies the Southern charm with a modern twist. Perfect for a Kentucky Derby party or any festive occasion, this punch combines the classic flavors of a Mint Julep with the tropical notes of pineapple, creating a delightful and invigorating beverage. It's effortlessly elegant yet delightfully simple to prepare, ensuring your guests will be impressed. This punch makes about 5 1/2 quarts, suitable for approximately 32 servings using 5-ounce cups. Note: Chilling time is additional.
32
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Mint Jelly
10 ounces (Melted with water)
Water
4 cups (Divided for use)
Bourbon
1 liter (Chilled)
Unsweetened Pineapple Juice
46 ounces
Lime Juice
1/2 cup (Freshly squeezed preferred)
Ice Cubes
As needed (For serving)
7-Up Soda
56 ounces (Chilled)
Lime Slices
Optional (For garnish)
Fresh Mint Leaves
Optional (For garnish)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the mint jelly and 2 cups of water. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until the jelly fully melts and blends with the water. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
2
In a large pitcher or bowl, mix the cooled jelly mixture with bourbon, pineapple juice, lime juice, and the remaining 2 cups of water. Stir until thoroughly combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until well chilled.
3
When ready to serve, fill a punch bowl with ice cubes.
4
Pour the chilled bourbon juice mixture over the ice in the punch bowl.
5
Gradually add the chilled 7-Up soda, stirring gently to incorporate without losing the fizz.
6
Optionally, garnish the punch with lime slices and fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
7
Serve immediately in punch cups for optimal enjoyment.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Mint Julep Celebration Punch?
A refreshing and vibrant punch that combines classic Southern Mint Julep flavors with tropical pineapple notes for a modern twist.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 32 servings when using 5-ounce cups.
What is the total volume of the punch?
The punch makes about 5 1/2 quarts of liquid.
How long should the mixture be chilled?
The bourbon and juice mixture should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours or until well chilled.
What are the main ingredients in this punch?
The main ingredients include mint jelly, water, bourbon, pineapple juice, lime juice, ice, and 7-Up soda.
How do I prepare the mint jelly for the recipe?
Melt 10 ounces of mint jelly with 2 cups of water in a saucepan over low heat, then allow it to cool completely.
How much bourbon is required?
The recipe calls for 1 liter of chilled bourbon.
What type of pineapple juice should I use?
Use 46 ounces of unsweetened pineapple juice.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
While 1/2 cup of lime juice is needed, freshly squeezed lime juice is preferred for the best flavor.
What kind of soda is used in the punch?
The recipe requires 56 ounces of chilled 7-Up soda.
When should the 7-Up be added?
Add the 7-Up gradually just before serving to ensure the punch remains carbonated.
How should I garnish the punch?
You can optionally garnish the punch with lime slices and fresh mint leaves for extra elegance.
Is this punch suitable for the Kentucky Derby?
Yes, it is specifically described as perfect for a Kentucky Derby party or any festive occasion.
How much total water is used?
The recipe uses 4 cups of water in total, divided between the jelly melting and the juice mixture.
Should the liquids be chilled beforehand?
Yes, the bourbon, 7-Up, and the juice mixture should all be well chilled before combining.
How do I prevent the punch from losing its fizz?
Stir gently when adding the soda to incorporate it without losing the carbonation.
What equipment is needed for this recipe?
You will need a medium saucepan, a large pitcher or bowl, and a punch bowl for serving.
Can the punch be served immediately after mixing?
The base should be chilled for 2 hours, but once the soda is added, it should be served immediately.
Is the punch served with ice?
Yes, fill a punch bowl with ice cubes before pouring the chilled mixture over them.
What makes this punch 'Southern'?
It embodies Southern charm by using classic Mint Julep components like bourbon and mint.
Can I substitute the 7-Up?
While the recipe calls for 7-Up, any similar lemon-lime soda can generally be used as a substitute.
Is there any sugar added to the recipe?
No extra sugar is added; sweetness comes from the mint jelly, pineapple juice, and soda.
How many ingredients are in the punch?
There are 9 ingredients total, including the optional lime and mint garnishes.
What size punch cups are recommended?
5-ounce punch cups are recommended for serving.
Is this recipe difficult to prepare?
No, it is described as delightfully simple to prepare and effortlessly elegant.
Does the mint jelly need to be a specific brand?
The recipe does not specify a brand, only that 10 ounces of mint jelly is required.
Can I make the mint jelly mixture in advance?
Yes, you can melt the jelly and water in advance, as it needs to be completely cooled before mixing.
Is the pineapple juice a tropical addition?
Yes, the pineapple juice provides tropical notes that modernize the traditional Mint Julep flavor.
What is the purpose of the lime juice?
The lime juice adds a bright acidity that balances the sweetness of the jelly and pineapple.
How many quarts of punch will I have?
The total yield is approximately 5.5 quarts.