Coffee Punch

The joys of coffee and ice cream unite for an incredibly delicious, refreshing coffee punch that will leave your guests asking for more. This coffee recipe is so simple, frothy and frosty that you just might want to make it all the time. Keep your freezer stocked with vanilla ice cream, just in case!

Coffee Punch Ingredients

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• Vanilla-flavored black coffee: The vanilla ensures that each mouthful of coffee has a pleasant vanilla flavor and aroma.
• Evaporated milk: Evaporated milk adds a creamy, smooth texture to the coffee even before the ice cream melts into it.
• Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness while enhancing the vanilla notes in the coffee.
• Vanilla ice cream: Vanilla ice cream turns the coffee into a refreshing dessert-like treat worthy of any occasion.

Directions 

Step 1: Mix the coffee

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In a large pitcher or mixing bowl with a spout, combine the coffee, evaporated milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 2: Make the punch

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Scoop the full gallon of ice cream into a large punch bowl. Pour the sweetened coffee mixture over the ice cream, then sprinkle cinnamon on top. Add a serving spoon and enjoy.

Editor’s Tip: Leave the unopened gallon of ice cream out on the counter for a few minutes to let it soften a bit. This makes it much easier to scoop.

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Coffee Punch Variations

• Go decaf: Concerned about caffeine? Swap the coffee out for vanilla-flavored decaf, or offer both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee punch, clearly marking each punch bowl. Everyone’s happy!
• Make it mocha: Use chocolate ice cream in place of vanilla for a chilled mocha punch. Vanilla coffee plus chocolate ice cream equals yum!
• Give it a boozy boost: Add a shot or two of a coffee liqueur or Irish cream to the punch to kick this up a notch. Just let guests know about the alcohol, or offer an alcohol-free version for those who don’t imbibe.

How to Store Coffee Punch 

Coffee punch is best made just before serving. Feel free to make the liquid portion of the recipe ahead of time, storing it in a lidded pitcher in the refrigerator for a day, or at most two days, ahead of party time. If you need more time, brew the black coffee and keep it, sans sugar and evaporated milk, for up to four days in the fridge.

How long does coffee punch last?

The liquid portion of coffee punch lasts up to two days in the refrigerator, but it tastes best fresh. If you save leftover coffee punch in the fridge once the ice cream melts, just stir and enjoy the beverage in the next day or two. Will there really be any leftovers, though?

Coffee Punch Tips

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Can I make this without coffee? 

Sure! Swap the coffee for chocolate milk for an equally tasty, frothy drink reminiscent of a milkshake.

Can I use instant coffee?

Instant coffee also works in this coffee punch recipe. Follow the instant coffee measurements on the container to make a large batch. Add a little vanilla extract when mixing in the evaporated milk, if desired.

Why is the ice cream melting so fast?

If you’d like the ice cream to stay somewhat solid a while longer, make sure the coffee mixture is as cold as possible before pouring it atop the ice cream. For a party outdoors, keep the punch in the shade, as direct sunlight will make the ice cream melt faster. No worries, though—it tastes great either way!