If you’re craving something cool, fruity, and a little bit indulgent, this Pineapple Coconut Mocktail checks all the boxes. It blends juicy pineapple with creamy coconut and a splash of fresh lime for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The frozen pineapple and ice create a thick, frosty texture that feels like a smoothie-meets-mocktail, perfect for warm days, parties, or a fun afternoon treat.

What makes this mocktail even better is the use of Truvia® Stevia Leaf Sweetener. It adds just the right touch of sweetness without the extra calories of traditional sugar. Since it’s made from the stevia leaf, it’s a simple swap that lets the natural tropical flavors shine while keeping the drink light and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Coconut Mocktail

• Tropical flavor in every sip with pineapple, coconut, and lime
• Creamy, frosty texture that feels like a vacation treat
• Sweetened with Truvia® for fewer calories without sacrificing taste
• Perfect for any occasion—mocktail hour, brunch, or summer gatherings

Ingredients

Scroll Down to the Bottom of this Post for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Printable Recipe Card

• Pineapple juice – The sweet, fruity base that gives this drink its bold tropical flavor
• Frozen pineapple – Adds natural sweetness and creates a thick, slushy texture
• Cream of coconut – Brings rich, creamy coconut flavor and smoothness
• Fresh lime juice – Balances the sweetness with a bright, citrusy kick
• Truvia® Stevia Leaf Sweetener – Adds sweetness with fewer calories than sugar
• Ice – Helps achieve that refreshing, frosty consistency
• Optional Toppings: pineapple wedge, lime slice, fresh mint, toasted coconut flakes

How to Make a Pineapple Coconut Mocktail

1. Add pineapple juice, cream of coconut, lime juice, frozen pineapple, ice, and Truvia® Stevia Leaf Sweetener to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, thick, and frothy.
3. Pour into a chilled glass.
4. Garnish with pineapple, coconut flakes, mint, or lime if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Use frozen pineapple instead of fresh for the best thick, slushy texture
• Adjust sweetness to taste—start with less Truvia® and add more if needed
• Chill your glass beforehand for an extra refreshing experience
• Blend longer for extra creaminess and a smoother finish
• Add a splash of coconut milk if you want it even creamier

Frequently Asked Questions

This post was created in partnership with Truvia. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.

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Pineapple Coconut Mocktail

This Pineapple Coconut Mocktail is the ultimate tropical escape in a glass! Bright, creamy, and perfectly refreshing. 

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword holiday, holidays, party

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 2

Ingredients

• 2 cups chilled pineapple juice
• 2/3 cup cream of coconut
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
• 2 cups ice
• 3-4 teaspoons Truvia® Stevia Leaf Sweetener

Instructions

• Add the pineapple juice, cream of coconut, lime juice, frozen pineapple, ice and Truvia® Stevia Leaf Sweetener to a blender.
• Blend until smooth and frothy.Pour into a chilled glass.
• Pour into a chilled glass.
• Garnish as desired and serve immediately.

The post Pineapple Coconut Mocktail appeared first on Dinner in 321.

Nothing says “happy holidays” like a warm mug of Slow Cooker Mulled Cider. Filled with warm spices, fresh apple cider, and bright citrus, it’s a holiday staple that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Simply toss all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let the magic happen. No fuss, just pure holiday bliss!

My family has loved this cider my whole life. One of my favorite memories of having it is when we sipped on it as we picked out and cut down our Christmas tree. Adding toppings adds a fun spin for everyone too. Whipped cream, caramel, cookies…there are so many delicious options. It’s also excellent to have for parties as you can make it ahead of time, and it’ll make your house smell like the best holiday candle!

It’s truly the coziest holiday drink. You can keep it non-alcoholic or add some liquor options on the side for guests. Alternatively, If you’re looking for a crisp and cool beverage, our holiday Slush Punch will be right up your merry alley!

Why You’ll Like This Recipe

• Super Easy: Just combine ingredients in the crock pot and let the magic happen. No stovetop simmering required.
• Filling and Cozy: Warm spices and fruity flavors make this drink perfect for chilly nights and holiday celebrations.
• Great for Entertaining: Make this mulled apple cider ahead and keep warm for serving at parties, family gatherings, or holiday get togethers. It’s a must for Thanksgiving, Christmas, leaf jumping, trick or treating, and tree-trimming!
• Festive Aroma: Your home will smell incredible as the spices simmer away, perfect for setting a cozy holiday mood.

Ingredients

Scroll Down to the Bottom of this Post for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Printable Recipe Card 

• Apple Cider: The star of the show—provides a sweet, tart base.
• Orange Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the spices.
• Brown Sugar: Melts into the cider, adding caramel sweetness.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Infuses the cider with the hallmark flavor of mulled drinks.
• Whole Cloves: Offer a spicy, slightly bitter note.
• Whole Allspice Berries: Imparts a warm, peppery, and slightly sweet flavor.
• Star Anise: Adds a subtly licorice-like aroma.
• Orange: Adds freshness and vibrant citrus flavor.
• Garnish options: cinnamon sticks, orange slices, apple slices, fresh whipped cream, or mug cookies.

Tools You’ll Need

• 6 Quart or Larger Crockpot
• Liquid Measuring Cups
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

How to Make Slow Cooker Mulled Cider

1. To a slow cooker, add apple cider, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and star anise. Whisk until combined.

2. Add orange slices on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

3. Before serving, strain and remove the spices and orange slices. Stir well, then add fresh orange and/or apple slices if desired.

4. Ladle into mugs and garnish as desired.

Pro Tips and Substitutions

• Adjust the Sweetness. Use more or less brown sugar depending on your sweetness preference. Honey or maple syrup can also be used in place of brown sugar.
• Spice Variations. Add sliced fresh ginger, cardamom, a splash of vanilla, or a pinch of nutmeg for different flavor options.
• Make It Spiked. For adults, you can add alcohol either in it or on the side. Bourbon, whiskey, brandy, vodka, red wine or spiced rum are popular requests. Serving it on the side would allow your guests to add their desired amount.
• Juice Options. You can use cranberry juice along with or instead of orange juice. If your store doesn’t have cider, you can also use apple juice as base. It will be less tangy, have a lighter, sweeter flavor, and may also lack some of the richness that unfiltered cider adds.

Serving and Storage

When serving, keep it in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting for up to 4 hours during your party.

Store leftover mulled cider in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

If you’d like to freeze it, simply strain any spices from the cider, pour in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge when ready to reheat. 

Frequently Asked Questions

More Holiday Recipes You’ll Love

• Cranberry Orange Pound Cake
• Creamy Hot Chocolate
• Cranberry Orange Monkey Bread
• Butter Toffee

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Slow Cooker Mulled Cider

This Slow Cooker Mulled Cider is the easiest drink to make for a crowd for your holiday celebrations. Simply combine apple cider, orange juice, and holiday spices, then let the slow cooker do the work. You can keep it non-alcoholic or add some liquor options for guests on the side.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword holiday, holidays

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 10 servings

Calories 145kcal

Ingredients

• 8 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 5 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon whole allspice
• 5 star anise
• 1 orange sliced
• Garnish options: cinnamon sticks, orange slices, apple slices, fresh whipped cream or mug cookies

Instructions

• To a slow cooker, add apple cider, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and star anise. Whisk until combined.
• Add orange slices on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
• Before serving, strain and remove the spices and orange slices. Add fresh orange and/or apple slices if desired.
• Ladle into mugs and garnish as desired.

Video

Notes

Pro Tips and Substitutions

• Adjust Sweetness. Use more or less brown sugar depending on your sweetness preference. Honey or maple syrup can also be used in place of brown sugar.
• Spice Variations. Add sliced fresh ginger, cardamom, a splash of vanilla, or a pinch of nutmeg for different flavor options.
• Make It Spiked. For adults, you can add alcohol either in it or on the side. Bourbon, whiskey, brandy, vodka, red wine or spiced rum are popular requests. Serving it on the side would allow your guests to add their desired amount.
• Juice Options. You can use cranberry juice along with or instead of orange juice. If your store doesn’t have cider, you can also use apple juice as base. It will be less tangy, have a lighter, sweeter flavor, and may also lack some of the richness that unfiltered cider adds.

Serving and Storage

When serving, keep it in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting for up to 4 hours during your party.

Store leftover mulled cider in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. If you’d like to freeze it, simply strain any spices from the cider, pour in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge when ready to reheat. 

Nutrition

Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Sodium: 11mg | Potassium: 346mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 29g | Vitamin A: 142IU | Vitamin C: 34mg | Calcium: 58mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Slow Cooker Mulled Cider appeared first on Dinner in 321.

When we are entertaining for a crowd, this Non-Alcoholic Sangria is always on the menu. Both kids and adults love it for it’s fresh fruity flavor. You would never know there’s no alcohol in the recipe.

We make a double or even triple batch the night before entertaining and keep it cold in the fridge until we are ready to serve. The easy part is if someone would like some wine in their sangria, we serve it on the side.

It’s a delicious non alcoholic punch that is always gone by the end of any event. In fact our friends and family always ask us for the recipe too! If you are in need of some more drink recipes for a party, try our Pineapple Punch as well, it’s so good!

Why you’ll Love This Recipe

• Make ahead beverage. This non-alcoholic sangria is best when it’s made a day in advance for the flavors to marinate.
• Great for all ages. We make this sangria good for kids and adults since it has no alcohol in it.
• Customize based on the season. We love to add berries in the summer and lots of citrus in the winter when the fruits are ripest.

Laura Ashley’s Tip: Use your favorite fruits of the season to make this sangria have great flavor all year round. When the fruit is ripest, it’s best to make this delicious non-alcoholic punch.

Ingredients

Scroll Down to the Bottom of this Post for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Printable Recipe Card 

• Cranberry juice: Adds tartness and a hint of that red wine flavor without the alcohol.
• Orange juice: Gives that classic orange flavor we all love in sangria.
• Pineapple juice: Infuses the drink with a hint of tropical flavor.
• Lemon juice: Be sure to squeeze it fresh for nice tartness.
• Orange, lime, and lemon: The citrus fruits we slice to add flavor and make the drink look pretty.
• Granny Smith Apple: Adds nice tartness and is very delicious to eat when it soaks in the juices.
• Strawberries and blueberries: The berries we add especially in the summertime when they are ripest.
• Fresh mint leaves: Adds a punch of herb flavor that goes well with the sweet fruit.
• Sparkling water, lemon lime soda, or sparking or dry red or white wine: All different options whether you would like your sangria to be non-alcoholic or alcoholic.

Tools You’ll Need

• Glass Pitcher
• Liquid Measuring Cups
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife

How to Make Non-Alcoholic Sangria

1. To a large pitcher, whisk together cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, and the juice of 1 lemon and 1 lime.
2. Slice remaining lime and lemon. Peel the orange and cut it and the apple into bite-sized chunks. Remove the leaves from the strawberries and cut into slices. 

3. Add the sliced fruits, berries, and fresh mint to the pitcher. Stir well, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

4. When ready to serve, add sparkling water, lemon lime soda, or sparking or dry red or white wine. To serve, scoop some of the fruit into a punch cup and pour the liquid portion on top, leaving room to add additional sparkling water, lemon lime soda or wine to the top if desired.

Expert Tips

• Be sure to let the sangria soak for at least 30 minutes. It’s better overnight, but this is to let the flavors marinate and infuse with one another and the fresh fruit!
• You can add wine if you desire or this sangria is delicious as a non-alcoholic beverage. We serve it both ways so that it appeals to everyone. You can either top off the sangria with a lemon lime soda, soda water, or red, white or sparkling wine.
• Choose the best seasonal fruit for this drink. We love to make it in the summer because the berries are the ripest during that season. In the winter, we use a lot of fresh citrus in this drink.
• Muddle the fruit a little bit to release it’s juices. You can use the back of a wooden spoon for this. By releasing the natural juices, the sangria will be even more flavorful.
• Adjust the sweetness. To adjust the sweetness in sangria, add sugar, honey, or a sweet liqueur. To reduce tartness, add a bit more fruit juice or a touch of simple syrup. Taste as you go to achieve your desired balance.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store the sangria for up to 3 days in the fridge. If you strain out the fruit, you can freeze the sangria for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or on the counter for a couple hours until liquid again and cold.

This is the perfect party drink to make in advance, we love to make it the day before so it’s super flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Easy Fruit Recipes

• Rainbow Fruit Tray
• Frozen Fruit Salad
• Pineapple Fluff
• Grape Salad Recipe

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Non-Alcoholic Sangria

This Non-Alcoholic Sangria is simple to make and has all the delicious fruit flavors of the classic drink recipe. Rather than wine, we use cranberry juice or white grape juice, plus we add sparkling water or soda to give some bubbles in every sip.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword holiday, holidays, party

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

30 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 110kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 1 cup orange juice
• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 2 limes divided
• 2 lemons divided
• 1 orange
• 1 Granny Smith apple
• 1/2 pint strawberries
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 4 cups sparkling water, lemon lime soda, or sparking or dry red or white wine plus more to top of poured glasses

Instructions

• To a large pitcher, whisk together cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, and the juice of 1 lemon and 1 lime.
• Slice remaining lime and lemon. Peel the orange and cut it and the apple into bite-sized chunks. Remove the leaves from the strawberries and cut into slices.
• Add the sliced fruits, berries, and fresh mint to the pitcher. Stir well, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• When ready to serve, add sparkling water, lemon lime soda, or sparking or dry red or white wine. To serve, scoop some of the fruit into a punch cup and pour the liquid portion on top, leaving room to add additional sparkling water, lemon lime soda or wine to the top if desired.

Video

Notes

Storage: 
Store the sangria for up to 3 days in the fridge. If you strain out the fruit, you can freeze the sangria for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or on the counter for a couple hours until liquid again and cold.

This is the perfect party drink to make in advance, we love to make it the day before so it’s super flavorful.

Expert Tips

• Be sure to let the sangria soak for at least 30 minutes. It’s better overnight, but this is to let the flavors marinate and infuse with one another and the fresh fruit!
• You can add wine if you desire or this sangria is delicious as a non-alcoholic beverage. We serve it both ways so that it appeals to everyone. You can either top off the sangria with a lemon lime soda, soda water, or red, white or sparkling wine.
• Choose the best seasonal fruit for this drink. We love to make it in the summer because the berries are the ripest during that season. In the winter, we use a lot of fresh citrus in this drink.
• Muddle the fruit a little bit to release it’s juices. You can use the back of a wooden spoon for this. By releasing the natural juices, the sangria will be even more flavorful.
• Adjust the sweetness. To adjust the sweetness in sangria, add sugar, honey, or a sweet liqueur. To reduce tartness, add a bit more fruit juice or a touch of simple syrup. Taste as you go to achieve your desired balance.

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 29mg | Potassium: 324mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 282IU | Vitamin C: 70mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Non-Alcoholic Sangria appeared first on Dinner in 321.

When we are looking for a great non-alcoholic fruit punch recipe to serve to a crowd, this Pineapple Punch is a family favorite. It’s a recipe my mom made for both mine and my sister’s wedding and a tradition that has lived on!

The key to this pineapple punch drink is preparing it in advance since it’s best to freeze the base of the drink for 2 days prior to serving. We actually love that this tropical punch can be prepped ahead of time because it makes entertaining for a crowd so much easier.

With flavors pineapple, orange, and banana, we promise you can’t go wrong serving this for your family and friends. It’s mixed with lemon lime soda for an impressive presentation and a flavor that transports you straight to the beach!

If you love a fruity recipe, be sure to also try our Fruit Cocktail Cake and Frozen Fruit Salad.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Make ahead punch for entertaining. We love this drink because we can prep it 2 days in advance. It only takes 15 minutes to assemble and then we can relax the day of the party knowing it’s ready to serve.
• Non-alcoholic drink great for kids and adults. If you’re looking for a beverage without alcohol that’s full of so much flavor, you should definitely try this tropical punch.
• 6-Ingredient drink recipe. It’s easy to shop for and affordable too. You’ll probably want to make a double batch of it to keep in the freezer, it’s very popular at all of our celebrations!

Ingredients

Scroll Down for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Recipe Card Below

• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the drink just right.
• Frozen orange juice cans: Adds great citrus flavor to the base of the drink. We prefer the frozen orange juice since it’s more concentrated in flavor than the juice in the bottle.
• Pineapple juice: The star juice of the drink that gives it that tropical sweet and sour flavor.
• Lemon juice: We always add lemon juice for the brightness it brings. Be sure to squeeze this fresh and not use the pre-bottled. It makes all of the pop!
• Bananas: Be sure to buy ripe bananas because you’ll be mashing them for this punch. It infuses the drink with more tropical tastes and pairs so well with the pineapple.
• 7-Up Pop: You can use regular here or swap for sugar-free if desired. Adds great lemon lime fizz!
• Garnish options: We love to add a garnish to make it fun for a party. Some suggestions are fresh mint, pineapple segments, orange slices, or lemon slices.

Tools You’ll Need

• Potato Masher or Chopper
• Punch Cups and Bowl
• Liquid Measuring Cups
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk

How to Make Pineapple Punch

1. Combine sugar and water in a large saucepan on medium-high heat. Cook until the sugar has dissolved. Turn off the heat, and cool completely. This is called simple syrup.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled sugar water, orange juice, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and mashed bananas.

3. Transfer the mixture into individual smaller containers (16-32 ounces each), and place in the freezer. Freeze a minimum of 2 days prior to serving.

4. On the day of serving, remove your desired amount of punch from the freezer to room temperature 2 hours before your event.
5. When ready to serve, transfer the punch into a serving bowl or punch bowl. Pour 7-Up over the punch. Carefully slush apart with a meat chopper or sharp utensil.

6. Ladle in individual punch cups. Garnish if desired.

Expert Tips

• Be sure to freeze the pineapple juice base for up to 2 days in the freezer. This is essential as it chills the punch for a long period of time without diluting the flavor.
• Buy very ripe bananas. They have a sweeter and more intense banana flavor and also mash better to infuse the base of the punch recipe with tropical tastes. You can also mash in a food processor if you want it extra smooth. Another banana fave is this Banana Milkshake!
• Use orange juice concentrate and not regular orange juice. The concentrate has a richer orange flavor which is a better flavor for this punch.
• Make a simple syrup for sweetening the punch like a pro. This is how all the professional restaurants sweeten both their non-alcoholic and cocktail recipes. By dissolving the sugar into the water on the stovetop, there is no gritty sugar texture and it’s easier to control the amount of sweetness.
• Customize the flavors to your liking. This is our family punch recipe, but you could also use a cherry lemon lime soda or a mango concentrate instead of pineapple. Both are so delicious!
• Other Mix-Ins: This punch also pairs well with ginger ale and club soda. If you want to add alcohol, Prosecco, Champagne, Rosé, rum, tequila, or vodka can be used.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store the frozen base of this punch in the freezer for at least 2 days and up to 2 months. This way you are ready to serve whenever friends and family come over!

This truly is the best make ahead drink recipe, we often keep some extra frozen pineapple juice base in the freezer in case we need it last minute for entertaining.

FAQs

More Delicious Fruit Recipes

• Rainbow Fruit Tray
• Grape Salad
• Cookie Salad
• Ambrosia Salad

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Pineapple Punch

This Pineapple Punch drink is a classic non-alcoholic punch recipe that we've always had at every family gathering. Both kids and adults love this fruity beverage that's best to prepare a couple days in advance.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword holiday, holidays

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

2 days days

Total Time 2 days days 30 minutes minutes

Servings 24 servings

Calories 87kcal

Ingredients

• 3 cups water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 12 ounces frozen orange juice cans
• 32 ounces pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 mashed ripe bananas approximately 1 1/2 cups
• 7-Up Pop (regular or sugar-free) amount as desired
• Garnish options: fresh mint, pineapple segments, orange slices, or lemon slices

Instructions

• Combine sugar and water in a large saucepan on medium-high heat. Cook until the sugar has dissolved. Turn off the heat, and cool completely.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled sugar water, orange juice, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and mashed bananas.
• Transfer the mixture into individual smaller containers (16-32 ounces each), and place in the freezer. Freeze a minimum of 2 days prior to serving.
• On the day of serving, remove your desired amount of punch from the freezer to room temperature 2 hours before your event.
• When ready to serve, transfer the punch into a serving bowl or punch bowl. Pour 7-Up over the punch. Carefully slush apart with a meat chopper or sharp utensil.
• Ladle in individual punch cups. Garnish if desired.

Video

Notes

Approximate Nutrition information is for 1/2 cup of the punch base. This does not include the additional regular or diet 7-up.

Storage: 

Store the frozen base of this punch in the freezer for at least 2 days and up to 2 months. This way you are ready to serve whenever friends and family come over!

This truly is the best make ahead drink recipe, we often keep some extra frozen pineapple juice base in the freezer in case we need it last minute for entertaining.

Expert Tips: 

• • Be sure to freeze the pineapple juice base for up to 2 days in the freezer. This is essential as it chills the punch for a long period of time without diluting the flavor.
  • Buy very ripe bananas. They have a sweeter and more intense banana flavor and also mash better to infuse the base of the punch recipe with tropical tastes. Use a food processor for a smoother mash.
  • Use orange juice concentrate and not regular orange juice. The concentrate has a richer orange flavor which is a better flavor for this punch.
  • Make a simple syrup for sweetening the punch like a pro. This is how all the professional restaurants sweeten both their non-alcoholic and cocktail recipe. By dissolving the sugar into the water on the stovetop, there is no gritty sugar texture and it’s easier to control the amount of sweetness.
  • Customize the flavors to your liking. This is our family punch recipe, but you could also use a cherry lemon lime soda or a mango concentrate instead of pineapple. Both are so delicious!
  • Other Mix-Ins: This punch also pairs well with ginger ale and club soda. If you want to add alcohol, Prosecco, Champagne, Rosé, rum, tequila, or vodka can be used.

•  

•  

•  

•  

Nutrition

Calories: 87kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 194mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 65IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 0.2mg

The post Pineapple Punch appeared first on Dinner in 321.

You’ll love having this homemade Creamy Hot Chocolate recipe for family or guests around the holidays. It’s perfect to have simmering on the stovetop or warmed in the slow cooker to serve to guests for any party.

If you’ve ever wanted to know how to make professional bakery or coffee shop-style hot chocolate right at home, this is the recipe for you. With just 10 minutes, you can easily make it from scratch in the same amount of time it takes to make the store-bought kind from the packet. You’re family will give you rave reviews (mine definitely does!).

This rich hot cocoa recipe is extra special because I show you how to make it with real chocolate and no cocoa powder. I love making cocoa inspired desserts, try my hot chocolate rice krispie treats, frozen hot chocolate pie, or frozen hot chocolate!

“So good!” – Julie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 5 Basic Ingredients. It’s easy to make and takes less than 15 minutes to assemble, it’s an easy sweet treat for cool days.
• Versatile to Customize the Flavors. You can easily swap or change ingredients to your taste preference.
• Bakery Quality Cocoa. Cozy up in your own house instead of a coffee shop for this delicious beverage.
• Have Fun with Toppings. Add your favorite toppers like marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint, and more!

Laura Ashley’s Tip: Be sure to use high quality chocolate, one with 60% cocoa content for the best homemade recipe.

Choosing Quality Chocolate

The foundation of any exceptional hot cocoa recipe lies in the chocolate itself. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60% and good quality milk chocolate chips.

Using cheap chocolate can significantly impact the taste and overall quality of the beverage. They can contain a higher proportion of sugar and less cocoa, contain more fillers such as vegetable oils or waxes, contain artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, and leave a bitter aftertaste.

Ingredients

• Cornstarch: Gives this homemade recipe its thick and luxurious texture.
• Milk: Forms the bulk of the drink, providing creaminess, richness, and a smooth texture.
• Dark Chocolate Bars and Milk Chocolate Chips: Serves as the base flavoring, providing the rich, chocolatey taste.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the sweetness while balancing the bitterness of the dark chocolate.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.

Tools You’ll Need

• Small Saucepan
• Whisk
• Liquid Measuring Cups
• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board

How to Make Creamy Hot Chocolate

1. To a medium saucepan on medium heat, add 3 1/2 cups of milk. To the reserved 1/2 cup of milk, whisk in cornstarch until blended well and set aside.

2. When bubbles appear around edge of the pan, add both chocolates, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt and stir until smooth.

3. Whisk in the cornstarch milk mixture.

4. Taste a spoonful to see if it’s at your desired sweetness. Bring to a light boil, then immediately reduce to simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat and either rest for 5 minutes prior to serving or pour in a Crockpot set to warm. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. Serve with your favorite toppings.

Expert Tips

• Picking Quality Chocolate. Use high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60%. The higher the cocoa content, the richer and more intense the flavor will be.
• Bring the milk and cream to a simmer, rather than a boil. You don’t want to boil the cocoa base too much or it could break. A nice simmer is perfect.
• Add a Nut Butter. Add a small spoonful of almond butter, peanut butter, or hazelnut spread to your cocoa. These nut butters not only add thickness but also impart a delightful nutty flavor.
• Try your favorite chocolate. You can use semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate depending on your preference. Or a mix of different kinds!
• To keep the cocoa warm for a party, hold it over low heat in a pot on the stovetop, or you can place it into the slow cooker and set it on warm to enjoy throughout the day.

Substitutions

• Try Alternative Sweeteners. Experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup. These alternatives can add sweetness while contributing to the overall thickness.
• Coconut Cream for Dairy-Free. Replace regular milk with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Coconut cream adds richness and a subtle coconut flavor, making it a popular choice for thickening.
• Change the flavor with Spices and Extracts. Enhance the flavor and thickness by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Swap the Thickening Agents. Besides cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives for thickening the hot chocolate. These starches work similarly to cornstarch and provide a smooth, thick texture.

Serving this hot chocolate alongside a holiday pastry like Gingerbread Scones makes for a perfect winter morning!

Variations

Here is a list of all different flavor variations for your hot chocolate! Everyone in the family will be happy with all of these different options!

1. Spiced: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of chili powder to your mug for a warm, spicy kick. You can also experiment with cardamom or ginger for unique flavors.
2. Pumpkin Hot Chocolate: The perfect blend of rich chocolate and flavors of the Fall, making every sip a warm hug on a chilly day!
3. Peppermint: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract or add crushed candy canes to create a refreshing peppermint-flavored beverage. Top it with whipped cream and more crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
4. Orange: Infuse your hot cocoa with a hint of orange by adding orange zest or a splash of orange extract.
5. Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce inside your mug before pouring in the hot chocolate. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top and stir gently.
6. Coconut: Replace regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist. Top your drink with whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
7. Mocha: Add a shot of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee to this recipe for a mocha-flavored delight.
8. Peanut Butter: Stir in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter until it melts completely. The rich, nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with chocolate. Top with whipped cream and chopped peanuts for extra texture.
9. Raspberry: Add a splash of raspberry syrup or a handful of fresh raspberries.
10. Cozy Chai: Steep a chai tea bag in hot milk before adding chocolate. Remove the tea bag and stir in your favorite chocolate.
11. S’mores: Top your mug with mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers. Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marshmallows for that authentic s’mores flavor.
12. White chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate or cocoa powder to create a creamy, vanilla-infused hot drink. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon
13. Bright Pink Hot Chocolate: This pretty pink treat is a huge hit for any Valentine’s Day party, Barbie Party, or afternoon tea party treat!

What to Serve with Hot Chocolate with Real Chocolate

Well of course this recipe is perfect for the holidays, so you have to serve it with some delicious treats! Some of my favorites are my white chocolate peanut butter cookies, Santa brownies, and mini cheesecakes.

Storage

Refrigeration: If you plan to consume the hot chocolate within a day or two, you can store it in the refrigerator. Transfer the leftover drink to an airtight container while it’s still warm. When you want to reheat it, you can do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Keep It Warm: If you want to keep the cocoa warm for a few hours, consider using a thermal carafe or a slow cooker set on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on the surface.

Freezing Hot Chocolate: Let the beverage cool down to room temperature before freezing. Do not put hot liquid directly into the freezer, as it can raise the temperature inside and affect other frozen items. Pour the cooled hot chocolate into ice cube trays or silicone molds. Leave a little space at the top.

Reheating: Transfer the hot chocolate cubes from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can gently reheat the frozen cubes directly from the freezer, but this might take longer and requires careful monitoring to avoid scorching.

Adjustments: You might need to add a bit more milk or cream to adjust the consistency, as freezing can sometimes change the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Holiday Treats

• Slush Punch
• Caramel Chex Mix
• Christmas at the Ritz Cookies
• Homemade Chex Mix

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Creamy Hot Chocolate

This Creamy Hot Chocolate is quick to make in just 10 minutes and it's made with real chocolate, no cocoa powder! It's truly the most luxurious homemade hot cocoa recipe. A little bit goes a long way!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword christmas, holidays

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 453kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 4 cups milk divided
• 4 ounces dark chocolate bars (60% cacao) chopped
• 4 ounces milk chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspooon vanilla extract
• Pinch of Salt
• Topping Options: marshmallows, whipped cream, shaved chocolate, crushed peppermint, cinnamon

Instructions

• To a medium saucepan on medium heat, add 3 1/2 cups of milk. To the reserved 1/2 cup of milk, whisk in cornstarch until blended well and set aside.
• When bubbles appear around edge of the pan, add both chocolates, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt and stir until smooth.
• Whisk in the cornstarch milk mixture.
• Taste a spoonful to see if it’s at your desired sweetness. Bring to a light boil, then immediately reduce to simmer for 5 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and either rest for 5 minutes prior to serving or pour in a Crockpot set to warm. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. Serve with your favorite hot chocolate topping.

Video

Notes

• Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60%. The higher the cocoa content, the richer and more intense the chocolate flavor will be.
• Thickening Agents: Besides cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives for thickening the hot chocolate. These starches work similarly to cornstarch and provide a smooth, thick texture.
• Alternative Sweeteners: Experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup. These alternatives can add sweetness while contributing to the overall thickness.
• Nut Butters: Add a small spoonful of almond butter, peanut butter, or hazelnut spread to your hot chocolate. These nut butters not only add thickness but also impart a delightful nutty flavor.
• Coconut Cream: Replace regular milk with coconut cream for a dairy-free, thick hot chocolate. Coconut cream adds richness and a subtle coconut flavor, making it a popular choice for thickening.
• Spices and Flavorings: Enhance the flavor and thickness by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

Nutrition

Calories: 453kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 107mg | Potassium: 695mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 48g | Vitamin A: 511IU | Calcium: 365mg | Iron: 3mg

The post Creamy Hot Chocolate appeared first on Dinner in 321.

I was first introduced to this chocolatey goodness at Serendipity 3 in New York City. Oprah deemed their Frozen Hot Chocolate as one of her “Favorite Things,” so you know I had to make it my mission to try one on my next visit to the city. Let me tell ya…it was love at first sip!

Every visit to the city since has required a visit to this little gem! They go all out for the holidays with their decor and have a lot more yummy goodies other than their Frozen Hot Chocolate. My second favorite is their Strawberry Fields Sundae: Cheesecake, Strawberry Ice Cream, and Strawberry Topping with Whipped Cream!

When we opened our restaurant Thyme on Broadway in 2015, we found at a food show that Ghirardelli sold a Frozen Hot Chocolate mix! It was an instant addition to our drink menu. Serendipity 3 sells one as well, but not in the bulk size we needed for the restaurant. It is the best blend of bittersweet chocolate notes balanced with the right amount of sweetness. The Frozen Hot Chocolate was our #1 seller at the restaurant, and I always make sure there’s a container in my pantry for celebrations or when that sweet craving hits!

What You’ll Need

• Ghirardelli Frozen Hot Chocolate Mix (This canister will make 15 drinks.)
• Milk
• Ice
• Optional: Whipped Cream and Garnishes (noted below)

Tools You’ll Need

• Blender
• Measuring Cups

How to Make This Recipe

1. The brand of blender and type of ice will make the ice amount and time to blend vary. (See tips below) To the blender, add milk, ice (start with 1 cup), then the frozen hot chocolate mix. Blend until the ice is crushed fine and the mixture billows smoothly from the sides through the middle of the blender. If too thin, add more ice and blend again. Too thick, add a little milk.
2. Pour in a cup and top with whipped cream and desired garnishes.

Tips and Substitutions

• You can get creative with garnishes:
  • Chocolate sauce
  • Caramel
  • Chocolate Shavings
  • Sprinkles
  • Strawberry Syrup
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Cherries
  • Fresh Berries
• There is also a Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix that is sold in some stores. It has directions for a Frozen Hot Chocolate on the back. In a pinch, I’d use this…but the Frozen Hot Chocolate mix is our preference.
• The type of ice makes a difference in the texture and cohesiveness of the blend. I recommend a firmer large chunk of ice rather than a rabbit size, shaved, or crushed ice. They yield a more watery result.
• The type of blender makes a difference in the time to blend and the smoothness of the ice. At the restaurant, we tried a few brands and found that Vitamix hands down made the best blend. While they still yielded a yummy result, we found that the cheaper blenders lent a chunkier ice and a less desirable texture. Of course, you can still use whatever blender you have on hand and it will still taste scrumptious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Like This

• Frozen Hot Chocolate Pie
• Rich and Thick Hot Chocolate

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Frozen Hot Chocolate

Chocolate heaven, insanely delicious, and easy to make, this frozen hot chocolate is perfect to cool you down and warm your heart!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 Serving

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk
• 1-1 1/4 cups ice chunks
• 1/2 cup Ghirardelli Frozen Hot Chocolate Mix (1 of the scoops that comes in the canister)
• Whipped Cream
• Chocolate Drizzle

Instructions

• Add to the blender milk, ice (start with 1 cup), then the mix. Blend until the ice is crushed fine and the mixture billows smoothly from the sides through the middle in the blender. If too thin, add more ice and blend again. If too thick, add a little milk and blend again
• Pour in a cup and top with whipped cream and garnish as desired. ENJOY!

Video

The post Frozen Hot Chocolate appeared first on Dinner in 321.

Holiday punch has been around for thousands of years and there are probably thousands of punch recipes. They might be fruity, sour, dolloped with sherbet or ice cream, spiked, topped with pop or filled with fresh produce. This Slush Punch Recipe uses just six easy ingredients; sugar, strawberry Jello, lemonade, Hawaiian punch, pineapple juice and ginger ale!

This easy holiday punch has been a tried and true family recipe for several decades! Mom always has stocked in the freezer and ready to pull out one container at a time. This is a nonalcoholic drink recipe but feel free to add some vodka to make it a cocktail punch for the adults!

Festive drinks during the holiday season are some of my favorite things to make. I also love a creamy hot chocolate or frozen hot chocolate served at a party. 

“This has to be the world’s greatest slush punch recipe! It was love at first sip! My whole family loved it!”

Sara F., TikTok

Looking for a delicious punch you can make on-the-spot and serve? Check out my friend Jesseca’s Fruit Punch! It’s quick-to-make, customizable, and has all the fruity flavors you love in a celebration drink!

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Make Ahead Treat: This is the best punch for many reasons but a big one it’s one thing you can take off your plate well before your celebration! Simply transfer to the refrigerator the day before serving.
• Few Ingredients with Maximum Flavor: This sweet drink has just 6 simple ingredients and is made in 1 bowl. It has the perfect combination of flavors.
• Stores Well in the Freezer: Frozen separate containers makes for easier thawing as well as rationing to the number of people you intend to be serving. You can serve it at multiple occasions!
• Mix and Match Favorite Flavors: The perfect punch has loads of bright, refreshing flavors that you can substitute, add-to, and alter as desired. It can be served with or without alcohol as well.

What is Slush Punch?

Slush punch which often tastes like a slushy drink, has been around for so many years. It’s a great party beverage since it can serve so many people. The best part about this easy drink recipe is that it can be made with so many different flavors.

This tasty fruit drink is made with minimal ingredients, my favorite version uses strawberry Jello, frozen lemonade, Hawaiian punch, pineapple juice and is topped with ginger ale. The best part of making slush punch is that it makes a large batch and can be easily made ahead and stored in the freezer. Adding the Jello to the punch creates the slushy consistency.

Try using your favorite fruit juices, lemon or lime flavor of Jell-o, and favorite fruit sodas to make your own delicious recipe. You can even add alcohol like vodka to serve to make it a cocktail!

Ingredients

Scroll Down for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Recipe Card Below

• Sugar: Enhances sweetness; balances the tartness from citrus ingredients.
• Strawberry Jello Mixes: Adds flavor and can contribute to the overall texture of the slush.
• Frozen Lemonade Concentrate: Contributes a refreshing citrus taste and helps balance the sweetness.
• Hawaiian Punch: Adds citrus flavors and a vibrant color to the punch.
• Pineapple Juice: Provides a tropical pineapple flavor, sweetness, and acidity.
• Ginger Ale: It adds effervescence, creating a bubbly and refreshing quality to the punch. It also contributes its distinct ginger flavor, which can add a hint of spice and warmth to the punch.

Pro Tip: Freeze the punch ahead of time. Adding the Jello to the punch is the secret to this recipe that gives it its amazing slushy consistency.

Tools You’ll Need

• Potato Masher or Chopper
• Punch Cups
• Punch Bowl
• Whisk

How to Make this Easy Punch Recipe

1. This is one of those recipes you need to plan in advance. It needs time to freeze so that it slushes properly when it’s time to celebrate.
2. The mixture is simple to make. Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan on the stove top. The boiling water dissolves the sugar in the Jello mixture and the flavors will bloom together.

3. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl until well combined then place in the freezer. The entire batch can be frozen in one large container, but it’s best to separate in smaller containers if you plan on having it on more than one occasion or if you want to pull out a few containers at a time.

4. When it’s party time, place your desired amount of punch in a large punch bowl and break apart into large chunks with a sharp kitchen item like a butter knife or masher. Pour ginger ale on top of the slush mixture, then ladle and serve. Cheers!

Recipe Tips and Substitutions

• Try using different fruit juices, juice concentrates, flavors of fruit Jello, as well as different fruit flavored sodas.
• If desired, you can substitute with sugar-free alternatives or adjust the amount of sugar.
• Instead of ginger ale, you can also use a bottle of lemon-lime soda like Sprite 7-Up, Ale-8 One, or your favorite bottle of soda.
• If desired, you can add desired spirits for an adult version. Commonly used spirits in this blend are Malibu rum and vodka. Add 1 cup of vodka or rum or more depending on taste and strength of cocktail.  
• Optional garnishes for this punch include fresh lime slices, strawberries, orange slices, a festive homemade ice ring, or fresh cranberries that have been briefly soaked in orange juice or a simple syrup.
• We freeze punch in 9 32 ounce airtight container tumblers. You can use a larger or smaller size container, depending on your storage space and how much you intent to serve at one time. Just ensure the container has extra room as the mixture expands slightly as it freezes.

Storage

The best part about this recipe is in order to make it correctly, it must be frozen in advance! I find it best to freeze this punch in large ziptop bags laying flat so they stack easily and can be defrosted in batches during a party. You can also freeze them in individual containers or tumblers. Ensure you leave extra room in the container to allow for expansion during freezing.

How to Serve Slushy Punch

The beauty of this luscious slush punch recipe is you can serve it in a big punch bowl for a party and it will stay very cold for several hours or you can serve in single serving cups.

If you want to add a festive touch, trying adding a sugared rim to the cocktail glass or garnish with a cocktail pick with a citrus wheel.

FAQs

More Holiday Recipes To Try

• Chocolate Covered Ritz Crackers
• Holiday Dinner Party Salad
• Caramel Chex Mix
• Bisquick Sausage Balls

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Slush Punch (Easy Punch Recipe)

This Easy Slush Punch is just 6 ingredients and great to make ahead. It's made with Jello and can be stored in the freezer too! Customize this nonalcoholic drink with your favorite juices or sodas.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword holidays

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 0 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups boiling water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 (3 ounce) packages strawberry jello
• 12 ounces frozen lemonade thawed
• 1 gallon orange Hawaiian punch
• 2 (46 ounce) cans pineapple juice
• 2 liters ginger ale

Instructions

• In a large container, whisk together water, sugar and jello until well combined. Whisk in lemonade, pineapple juice and orange punch. Pour into containers and freeze until ready to serve.

Video

Notes

• Try using different fruit juices, flavors of fruit Jello, as well as different fruit flavored sodas.
• If desired, you can substitute with sugar-free alternatives.
• If desired, you can add desired spirits. Commonly used spirits in this blend are rum and vodka. Add 1 to 2 cups depending on taste and strength of cocktail.

The post Slush Punch (Easy Punch Recipe) appeared first on Dinner in 321.