
This lively southern punch with pineapple sherbet is a real crowd-pleaser. It's cool, fruity, bubbly, and has a creamy sherbet twist. Folks will sneak a second glass even if they said they wouldn’t. Perfect when you’re bringing a treat to birthdays, potlucks, or any time your family gets together.
I remember this punch showing up at all the church gatherings down south when I was a kid. Its bright color and fizzy sweetness meant there was something fun about to happen. Now, my kids ask for this every Easter morning just like I used to.
Lively Ingredients
- Pineapple juice: the main flavor, both tangy and sweet. Stretch your budget for the best—skip “from concentrate” if you can
- Frozen lemonade concentrate: perks everything up and adds a refreshing kick. A good brand keeps things tasting right
- Frozen orange juice concentrate: brings a burst of citrus brightness. Try to find unsweetened so it isn’t too sugary
- Pineapple sherbet: throws in tropical, creamy vibes. Check the label for real pineapple for the best taste
- Cold ginger ale: adds lively fizz and a subtle spice. Bold ginger ales make it grown-up or stick to classic for the usual taste
Chill Steps to Make It
- Freeze Pineapple Juice:
- Stick pineapple juice in the freezer all day so it gets icy and thick. This step gives you that chill, frosty finish everyone loves.
- Thaw and Mix Lemon Stuff:
- Pull out the pineapple juice about two hours before guests come. Prep the orange and lemonade concentrates per instructions and use really cold water to keep things snappy.
- Combine in Big Bowl:
- Once folks arrive, scoop the slushy pineapple juice and sherbet into your bowl. Use a big spoon to break them up into chunky bits for flavor and texture.
- Add Ginger Ale and Citrus:
- Pour in your lemonade and orange juice on the frozen mix. Add cold ginger ale over the top. Stir it gently so things stay cold and a little slushy, not too smooth.
- Mix and Pour to Serve:
- Right before pouring into cups, give it all a gentle stir. Leave big bites of sherbet on top for style. Serve it quickly to keep the bubbles in your glass.

Whenever I throw a party, the pineapple sherbet goes first without fail. One time, after the adults left the room, my son and his cousins finished off the punch and left just a slushy mess behind.
Stay Bright
If you have any left, stash it in a closed jug or container in the fridge for a couple of days. If you want to hold onto it longer, freeze the leftovers, then let them thaw in the fridge before mixing well. To keep it bubbly later, only add ginger ale right before serving again.
Mix It Up
Can’t find pineapple sherbet? Lemon or orange work too—just a little different but still fun. Lemon-lime soda works instead of ginger ale for a less spicy, more mellow fizz. Want to get creative? Try tossing in canned pineapple pieces for a little extra.
Serve with Fun
Slice up pineapple rings or toss on some cherries for an easy upgrade. Use silly straws or add whipped cream on top if you want to bring back soda shop vibes. We like to pour it into old-fashioned punch glasses to really lean into the nostalgia.

A Little History
Big punch bowls like this are classic southern hospitality—sharing and catching up with a glass in hand. When I make it now, I’m reminded of old friends, family times, and church suppers, all laid out on the table together.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Is it okay to freeze this?
For sure! Pop leftovers in a freezer-safe tub for a month. Let it sit in the fridge to thaw, then stir to make it smooth again.
- → What’s the best way to keep leftovers?
Pour what’s left into any container, then stash it in the fridge for three days max. Give it a quick mix before you drink more.
- → Any swaps for pineapple sherbet?
You could go with vanilla ice cream or maybe scoop in orange or lemon sherbet if that's more your thing.
- → Can I prep this drink in advance?
Get all your stuff ready early but don't mix it together till you're about to pour—keep that ginger ale nice and fizzy!
- → How do I tone down or boost the sweetness?
To make it less sugary, add a splash of juice or extra ginger ale. Throw in some sliced citrus for a zesty pop.
- → Is this punch kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It's all just juice and sherbet, so everyone can dip in, even the kids.