Banana Slush Punch: A Sweet, Frosty Family Classic
Introduction
I had just opened the second cookbook when I saw it, tucked neatly under the front cover—my late mother-in-law’s Banana Slush Punch recipe. A cherished treasure and reminder of many sweet memories. Thanksgiving had just ended, and as I worked on my next food blog, I felt compelled to revisit my old cookbooks. It was one of those cold, rainy mornings, perfect for a blanket and a cup of coffee. I grabbed three cookbooks from the dining room, curled up on the couch, and settled in.
The TV murmured in the background, but I soon lost myself in that comforting world only vintage cookbooks evoke. Page after page. Recipe after recipe. Everything else faded away.
I don’t know how many of you fellow food lovers find comfort in leafing through old recipe books. I certainly do. The history preserved in those worn pages fascinates me. I can spend hours immersed in the cookbooks I’ve collected over the past 40 years. Sometimes, a recipe jumps out—one I remember from childhood. Instantly, I’m transported to a simpler time. It always brings a smile.
For most people, food is a necessity. Of course, it is. But I see it through a different lens. Cooking is survival, yes, but it’s also one of my favorite ways to create. When I read a recipe, I imagine the texture, the sweetness, or the savoriness. I can practically smell it simmering on the stove or baking in the oven. I hear the delight of family and friends gathered around the table. In those moments, I’m reminded that not all masterpieces hang on a wall. Some are served in bowls, on plates, or poured into a frosty punch cup. This Banana Slush Punch is one of those masterpieces.
When I found that old recipe card, I paused. I’m not certain how old this recipe is. I do know this punch recipe has anchored my mother-in-law’s family traditions for over 50 years. It has graced church functions, reunions, graduations, showers, holidays, and weddings. A humble handwritten card holds decades of memories. Today, it resurfaced for me, so I knew I needed to share it with you. So grab a punch bowl, friend. Let’s get stirring.
This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Banana Slush Punch Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need for this easy, crowd-pleasing punch. It’s pure nostalgia in a bowl and sure to steal the show at your next gathering:
- 4 medium ripe bananas
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 cups water (divided)
- 1 can (46 oz) pineapple juice
- 2 cans (12 oz) frozen orange juice concentrate
- 1 can (12 oz) frozen lemonade concentrate
- 3 liters of ginger ale (Sprite or 7UP works too)
A Frosty Family Favorite: Banana Slush Punch Recipe
Everyone needs a reliable punch recipe in their box. This may be the only one you’ll ever need. Sweet, tropical, and deeply nostalgic, it blends banana, pineapple, orange, and lemonade. One sip explains why Banana Slush Punch is a family favorite through generations. People remember it, request it, and come back for seconds—and thirds.
Banana Slush Punch
Equipment
- 1 blender
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups water
- 1 46 oz can pineapple juice
- 2 12 oz cans frozen orange juice concentrated thawed
- 1 12 oz can frozen lemonade concentrate thawed
- 3 cups water
- 3 liters ginger ale Sprite or 7Up can also be used
Instructions
Step 1
- In a blender, combine the bananas, sugar, and 3 cups of water. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Pour into a large mixing bowl, then mix in pineapple juice, orange juice concentrate, lemonade concentrate, and another 3 cups of water. Stir until well blended. Divide into 3-gallon freezer bags and place them in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 hours, but overnight is recommended for best results.
Step 2
- Remove the bags from the freezer at least 30 minutes before serving. Once the bags start to thaw, squeeze them to make slush and place the slush in a punch bowl. Add 1 liter of cold ginger ale for each bag, stir, and serve.
If you tried this recipe, don't forget to scroll up and tap those stars. I'd love to know how it turned out for you.
Notes
Nutrition
Tips for Making Banana Slush Punch
- To make serving easier, divide the banana mixture evenly into three separate freezer bags.
- Place the bags in the freezer for several hours, or even better, overnight.
- When you’re ready to serve, use 1 bag of the frozen mixture per punch bowl.
- Let the frozen mixture sit out for at least 30 minutes to begin thawing.
- After about 30 minutes, gently break up the mixture with your hands while it’s still in the bag.
- Add the broken-up mixture to your punch bowl, then pour in 1 liter of chilled ginger ale or Sprite.
- For best results, chill your sodas overnight.
Conclusion
This Banana Slush Punch isn’t just a recipe—it’s sweet, frosty, and joyful. This punch brightens celebrations and makes everyday moments special. Whether for family gatherings, community events, or just a spontaneous treat, it connects people in the best way. I hope it becomes your favorite, just as it has been mine for many years. Time to stir up some loving memories!
Are you new to the kitchen and unsure where to start? I’ve created my Kitchen Confidence Series for beginning cooks and bakers to help you get started!
This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
You May Also Like
Cooking Venison: What You Need To Know
The Best Pecan Pound Cake
