Punch

Why this once popular drink has faded into obscurity is a mystery to us. It's relatively light but packed with flavor, and it deserves to reclaim its place in the punchtheon.

A fresh raspberry syrup infuses this pretty drink with bright fruit flavor.

A splash of vodka or gin transforms this lively punch into a festive cocktail.

This punch — containing rum, Cognac, and peach brandy — is potent. If it packs a bit too much of a wallop for your taste, you can dilute it with cold black tea, a common mixer for this particular punch, or with seltzer water, for a bit of fizz. Some punch bowls may not be big enough to accommodate the size ice block we call for — feel free to use other freezing containers that are more suitably shaped. And though the block is a classic part of this recipe, you can, of course, simply serve the punch in a pitcher over ice cubes.

A vanilla bean is an extravagance that lends a note of sophistication to this drink, but extract is a fine substitute.

(Hot Scandanavian Christmas Punch)

Try this frothy, creamy cocktail instead of eggnog to kick off your Christmas festivities.

This drink is sweet, pretty, and refreshing. Grenadine can be found in the liquor section of most supermarkets.