Christmas Pudding Mocktail
This Christmas Pudding Mocktail is the perfect non-alcoholic alternative for your holiday celebrations. With its rich, complex flavor profile that genuinely mimics the beloved Christmas dessert, it will impress even the most discerning guests. The make-ahead nature of this recipe makes it ideal for busy hosts who want to offer something special without last-minute preparation. Whether served hot in a cozy mug on a snowy evening or cold with plenty of ice for those celebrating in warmer climates, this festive drink will become a new holiday tradition in your home.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Infusion Time 8 hours hrs
Total Time 8 hours hrs 5 minutes mins
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
- 1 cup cranberry juice low sugar, organic preferred
- 1 cup pomegranate juice 100% pure
- ½ cup dried mixed fruit with orange and lemon rind if possible
- 2 teaspoons orange zest from 1 medium orange
- 4 slices orange
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest from 1 small lemon
- 2 slices lemon
- 2 whole cloves
- ½ teaspoon mixed spice also known as pudding spice or pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg or ground
- 1 tablespoon fine desiccated coconut for garnish
For Garnish (Optional)
- Cinnamon sticks
- Fresh mint or rosemary sprigs
- Additional orange slices
- Star anise
Combine cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, dried mixed fruit, orange and lemon zest, orange and lemon slices, cloves, mixed spice, and nutmeg in a large glass jug or bowl. Cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 2 days to allow flavors to develop.
Remove the larger fruit pieces from the mixture. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth, fine strainer, or clean cotton cloth into a clean container, pressing gently to extract all the flavorful liquid.
To serve cold, prepare your glasses by moistening the rim with orange juice and dipping into desiccated coconut for a festive touch. Fill glasses with ice and pour the strained mocktail over.
For a warm version, pour the strained mixture into a mug and heat in the microwave until warm but not boiling. For a sparkling version, fill your glass halfway with the mocktail and top with sparkling water.
Garnish with orange slices, a cinnamon stick, or fresh herbs if desired. Store any leftover mocktail in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.