(Photo credit: Josh Self)
For a different punch while you, your family and friends put up the Christmas decorations, I’ve opted for a cold punch instead of a hot one. This punch serves 40 punch cup servings (or less in 6-8 ounce glass). Even though the punch can be used for the summer, it has a heavy-bodied feel that is nice in the winter, too.
1 gallon strong coffee – chilled
3/4 cups sugar
1 gallon chocolate ice cream
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 pint whipping cream (heavy cream) whipped
and sweetened
grated nutmeg
Combine the sugar, coffee and vanilla. Stir to dissolve. Refrigerate mixture. To serve, scoop ice cream into the punch bowl. Add refrigerated coffee mixture and then gently fold in the whipped cream. Sprinkle the top with grated nutmeg to taste.
Servings: 40 punch cups full
I serve this up in an antique milk glass bowl, but it also looks great in a cranberry glass bowl and ladled up with a silver ladle.
Some appetizer recipes are to follow.
Happy decorating. It’s time to bring tree, ornaments, and lights from the storage room!!!
The World Holidays and Traditions Reader 