11 big-batch cocktail and punch recipes for New Year’s Eve

If you’re throwing a New Year’s Eve party, the last thing you want to do is get stuck behind the bar making cocktails all night. To make sure you enjoy the party, mix a couple batches of cocktails and punch before your guests arrive.

You can serve your libations in large bowls with ladles, and let people serve themselves. Because if you’re not trapped behind the bar, you can spend the party enjoying the company — with a cocktail in hand, instead of a cocktail shaker.

For a really low-maintenance drink, this recipe for Highland punch makes enough for 50 servings, and takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. The punch combines citrus, honey, blended Scotch whisky, a gin-based fruit cup, ginger ale and fresh berries. That should keep you and your guests well-lubricated throughout the evening.

For something festive, this recipe for a Boston Sidecar incorporates brandy and Cointreau. It’s also on the lighter side with two parts juice, one part alcohol.

And we’ve got nine more drinks to mix for a crowd here.

Whatever you decide to make, just be sure you’ve got plenty of ice and a designated driver ready.

Sometimes a lush, but always classy about it. Follow me on Twitter @Jenn_Harris_