Noche Buena Ponche – Super King Markets

Noche Buena Ponche Recipe: A Festive Mexican Tradition

The Steaming hot Noche Buena Ponche (Punch) consist of its the signature warm flavors of tejocotes (fragrant Mexican hawthorn fruits) caña (fresh sugar cane) and tropical guavas. You can add other ingredients like tamarind pods, dried hibiscus flowers or a variety of dried fruit to customize it to your liking. You can add chopped nuts give it a delicious bite, and if you’re feeling festive, you can make this into a party drink by adding a shot of rum or tequila. (Yum!)

Recipe Summary

Total: 1 hr 10 mins

Active: 35 min

Servings: 12

Ingredients for Noche Buena Ponche

• Essential Fruits and Spices:

  • 8 oz tejocotes (Mexican hawthorn fruit) or crab apples

  • 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers

  • 4 guavas, peeled and diced

  • 2 apples, peeled and diced

  • 1 cinnamon stick (plus more for garnish)

• Sweeteners and Enhancers:

  • 1 cup chopped piloncillo or brown sugar

  • 1/2 cup dried prunes, raisins, or cherries

  • 1/4 cup tamarind pods, peeled and cut

  • 2 large Medjool dates, pitted and sliced

  • 3 sugarcane sticks, peeled and halved

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

• Optional Additions:

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

  • A splash of rum or tequila for an adult version

Directions

Step 1
Combine 2 quarts of water and the tejocotes in a large stockpot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the tejocotes start to soften, for about 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tejocotes to a medium bowl and let cool. Reserve the cooking liquid. When the tejocotes are cool to the touch, remove and discard the skins, stems and pits and tear the fruit in half with your hands. Set aside.

Step 2
Meanwhile, add the hibiscus flowers to the reserved cooking liquid and bring to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the flowers and discard or save for another use, such as a second infusion for a jamaica agua fresca.

Step 3
Add the tejocotes, piloncillo, prunes, raisins, tamarind, guavas, sugarcane, apples, dates, cinnamon and vanilla, if using, to the pot. Lower the heat and gently simmer until the fruit is softened and the mixture is reduced slightly, about 30 minutes.

Step 4
Pour the hot ponche into mugs, scoop some fruit into each and garnish with a cinnamon stick or Sugar Can pieces. Serve with spoons.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this ponche with tamales, buñuelos, or pan dulce to complete your holiday meal. It’s the perfect warm beverage to enjoy on cold winter nights.

Looking for a lighter, fruity beverage? Try our Refreshing Orange Peach Smoothie for a quick and energizing treat

FAQs about Noche Buena Ponche

Q: Can I substitute tejocotes with another fruit?
A: Yes! Crab apples are a great alternative if tejocotes are unavailable.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the ponche a day before, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.

Q: Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version?
A: Of course! Simply omit the rum or tequila to keep it family-friendly.

Celebrate with Super King Markets

Find all the ingredients you need for this authentic Noche Buena Ponche at Super King Markets. From fresh guavas to piloncillo and tamarind, we have everything to make your holiday special.