Name: Hocus Pocus Punch
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 liters Sprite; 4 cups pineapple juice; 2 quarts lime sherbet (or orange sherbet as an alternative); 2 limes, sliced; Food-grade dry ice (for smoky effect); Halloween-themed sprinkles, for garnish

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Hocus Pocus Punch is a festive, bubbly drink that’s perfect for parties, spooky movie nights, or any magical gathering. With a glowing green hue, citrusy sweetness, and a touch of dry ice fog, this punch adds a fun, eerie vibe to your table and delights guests of all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Parties: This punch makes a bold visual impact and is easy to serve to a crowd.
Kid-Friendly and Non-Alcoholic: Great for all ages, and it can easily be adapted into an adult version if needed.
Quick and Easy: Made with just a few ingredients and minimal prep.
Fun and Festive: The combination of sherbet and dry ice creates a magical, smoking cauldron effect.
Customizable: Swap in different sherbet flavors or garnishes to match your party theme.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 liters Sprite
4 cups pineapple juice
2 quarts lime sherbet (orange sherbet can be used as an alternative)
2 limes, sliced
Food-grade dry ice
Garnish: Halloween-themed sprinkles

Directions

Rub a lime slice around the rim of each glass, then dip the rim into a shallow dish of Halloween sprinkles. Set aside to dry.
In a large punch bowl, use an ice cream scoop to add the lime sherbet to the bottom.
Pour the Sprite and pineapple juice over the sherbet. Add in the sliced limes.
Carefully break food-grade dry ice into small chunks using gloves. Drop a few pieces into the punch to create a bubbling, smoky effect.
Serve immediately in prepared glasses and enjoy the spooky, fizzy fun.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 12–14 cups (depends on serving size)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Alcoholic Version: Add vodka, rum, or a melon liqueur for an adult twist.
Change the Color: Use orange sherbet for a bright, pumpkin-hued version.
Add Fruit: Float gummy worms, orange slices, or green grapes for a creepy-crawly look.
Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free soda and low-sugar juice for a lighter version.
Frozen Punch Pops: Pour leftovers into molds and freeze for punch popsicles.
Themed Ice Cubes: Freeze juice in Halloween-shaped ice cube trays for extra flair.
Berry Version: Use raspberry sherbet and cranberry juice for a blood-red version.
Glittery Punch: Add edible glitter to give it a magical shimmer.
Glow-in-the-Dark: Serve under blacklight for a spooky glowing effect.
Lemon-Lime Twist: Use lemon-lime soda and add a splash of lemonade for extra zing.

Storage/Reheating

This punch is best enjoyed fresh. Once the sherbet melts and the soda goes flat, the texture and fizz diminish. If you have leftovers, refrigerate without ice or sherbet and consume within 1 day. Do not attempt to store with dry ice. For best results, make only what you plan to serve immediately.

FAQs

Is this punch safe to drink with dry ice?

Yes, but do not ingest dry ice. Wait until the dry ice has completely dissolved before serving, or use a ladle to avoid scooping any into individual cups.

Can I make this punch ahead of time?

You can prepare the liquid mix ahead (Sprite and juice), but add sherbet and dry ice just before serving for the best effect.

Can I use a different soda?

Yes, lemon-lime soda works well, or try ginger ale for a different flavor profile.

Is this punch suitable for kids?

Absolutely. It’s non-alcoholic and fun for kids—just monitor them around dry ice.

What’s a good substitute for sherbet?

Sorbets or ice cream can work, though they’ll create a different texture and flavor.

Can I skip the dry ice?

Yes, the punch will still taste great without it. You’ll miss the smoky effect, but it’s still festive.

Where can I find food-grade dry ice?

Dry ice is often available at grocery stores, especially around Halloween. Be sure it’s labeled food-safe.

Can I use frozen limeade concentrate instead of juice?

You can, but dilute it with water and adjust sweetness to taste.

How do I keep the punch cold without watering it down?

Freeze some of the punch mixture into ice cubes ahead of time, or add extra sherbet during the party.

Can I use orange sherbet instead of lime?

Yes, it creates a more autumn-inspired color and flavor and is just as festive.

Conclusion

Hocus Pocus Punch is the ultimate Halloween party drink—eye-catching, delicious, and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a spooky bash or simply enjoying a themed movie night, this fizzy green punch adds just the right amount of fun and magic to the occasion. With endless variations and that signature fog effect from dry ice, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bring back every year.