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–+ servings
Good Luck Punch
Good-Luck Punch is a charming vintage beverage recipe straight from the April 1949 edition of Farm Journal. This refreshing and visually beautiful punch features tangy rhubarb as the base, cooked down and combined with a light lemon and pineapple citrus blend. A homemade sugar syrup balances the tartness perfectly. Finished with effervescent ginger ale, floating lemon slices, and floral touches like rosebuds or freesias, this punch is both elegant and nostalgic. Ideal for garden parties, showers, or any celebratory gathering, it serves up a full gallon of retro refreshment with timeless flair.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 110 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 quart rhubarb (about 2 dozen stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • water (enough to cover rhubarb)
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 2 cups water (for syrup)
  • 6 lemons (juice of)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1 quart ginger ale (add just before serving)

Optional Garnishes:

  • lemon slices
  • rosebuds ( or freesias, for floating in punch bowl)
  • ice (1 large chunk for punch bowl)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Rhubarb Juice

  • Cut 1 quart of rhubarb (about 2 dozen stalks) into 1-inch pieces.
  • Add enough water to cover.
  • Cook until soft, about 10 minutes.
  • Drain through cheesecloth or a sugar sack.
  • Measure to ensure you have 3 quarts of juice.

Step 2: Make the Syrup

  • In a saucepan, dissolve 3 cups sugar in 2 cups water.
  • Cook for 10 minutes to create a syrup.

Step 3: Combine Juices

  • Add the juice of 6 lemons and 1 cup pineapple juice to the rhubarb juice.
  • Stir in the sugar syrup.

Step 4: Assemble the Punch

  • Pour the juice mixture over a large chunk of ice in a punch bowl.
  • Just before serving, add 1 quart of ginger ale.
  • Float lemon slices with rosebuds or freesias for garnish.

Tips

  • Substitute club soda for ginger ale for a less sweet version.
  • Add sliced strawberries or raspberries for extra flavor and color.
  • For an adult twist, mix in sparkling wine instead of ginger ale.
  • Freeze edible flowers in ice cubes for a charming presentation.
  • Use frozen rhubarb if fresh is unavailable—just adjust cooking time slightly.

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 0.3gSodium: 8mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 27gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword ginger ale, homemade non-alcoholic, Lemon, party, party drink, punch, rhubarb, summer beverage, vintage
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