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This classic southern party drink with pineapple sherbet is super cheerful. It's creamy and fruity, making it the perfect thing to share at any get-together. Whether you're at a birthday, potluck, or a family get-together, everyone loves it—even the 'I don't like punch' folks end up going back for another cup.
I remember seeing this punch at nearly every church function while I was growing up in the South. That pastel color and fizzy top meant something good was happening. Now my kids request it for our Easter morning feast every single year.
Delightful Ingredients
- Cold ginger ale: Gives everything that fizzy kick. Find any brand you like, but if you want a little bite, pick one with some spice.
- Pineapple sherbet: Adds creamy, tropical flavor. Try to get one that uses actual pineapple for the best taste.
- Frozen orange juice concentrate: Brings a zesty citrus punch. Go for the kind without extra sugar if you can.
- Pineapple juice: The punch’s bright, sweet star. Use the best 'not from concentrate' juice you can find.
- Frozen lemonade concentrate: Makes it juicy and tart. Buy the one that tastes like real lemons for extra flavor.
Easy Step-by-Step
- Mix and Serve Right Away:
- Leave a few little sherbet chunks floating around for a fun look. Quickly stir again just before pouring it up so you get that bright, foamy top with icy bits. Serve quick to keep all the bubbles in.
- Add Ginger Ale and Citrus Goodness:
- Pour the orange and lemonade concentrate mixes over everything that’s frozen. Dump the ginger ale over top for fizz, then stir carefully so you’ve got slush and punch all blended, but not too mixed.
- Throw It All in the Bowl:
- Scoop the mostly thawed pineapple juice and as much sherbet as you want into your bowl. Grab a chunky spoon and chunk everything up to make a slush.
- Thaw and Get Juices Ready:
- Set the pineapple juice out from the freezer about 2 hours before you want to serve it so it softens up. Make the orange and lemonade concentrates as their cans direct using cold water so it’s still punchy and doesn’t taste watered down.
- Freeze the Pineapple Juice:
- The day before, toss your canned or bottled pineapple juice in the freezer. Let it get icy and slushy, which makes the whole thing super frosty.
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At my parties, the pineapple sherbet is always first to go. One time after dinner, my son and his cousins snuck into the kitchen and finished it off, leaving only a bit of slushy stuff behind.
Storage ideas
If you have any leftovers, just pour them into a sealed jug or container and stash it in your fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, let it thaw in the fridge and stir well to blend everything back together. Skip adding the ginger ale until you're actually serving—otherwise, it'll go flat.
Swap outs
No pineapple sherbet? No biggie—orange or lemon sherbet works and tastes great, too. If you're out of ginger ale, use something like Sprite or 7UP for a bubbly twist. Throw in some pineapple chunks on top for a fun garnish if you want.
Ways to serve it
For extra color, add pineapple slices or toss in some cherries before you serve. Use fun straws or go wild and top each cup with whipped cream for that sundae feeling. At my place, we always pour it into old-school glass punch cups.
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History and tradition
Southern potlucks aren’t the same without this crowd-pleaser. Growing up, it sat next to homemade cakes with plenty of laughter all around. Making it now feels like sharing something special from the past with my family and friends.
Common Questions
- → Can this be put together in advance?
Get your ingredients ready ahead, but mix everything up right before you serve. That way the ginger ale stays bubbly and fresh.
- → What can I use if I'm out of pineapple sherbet?
Orange or lemon sherbet do the trick. Even a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it extra rich and creamy.
- → What's the best way to keep leftovers?
Pop any leftovers in a pitcher or sealed container in the fridge for a couple days. Stir it up before pouring another glass.
- → Can I freeze what's left over?
You sure can! Stick it in a freezer container and it'll be good for a month. Thaw it in the fridge and give it a good stir before pouring.
- → Is this okay for kids to drink?
Totally! There's nothing boozy in it, so it's perfect for all ages and super popular at family parties.
- → How do I tweak the taste if it's too sweet?
Add some more ginger ale or a splash of fruit juice if you want. Slices of citrus make it fresher, too.