Refreshingly Easy Cranberry Juice You’ll Love
This homemade cranberry juice offers a deliciously healthy alternative to sugary drinks, perfect for hydration and refreshing delight.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth
- Wooden spoon or potato masher
Ingredients
For the Juice
- 6 cups water This is the base that helps extract all the delicious flavors from the cranberries.
- 4 cups cranberries Opt for fresh cranberries when in season for optimal taste, or use frozen for convenience.
For Sweetening
- Honey A natural sweetener that complements the tartness and can be adjusted to taste.
- Maple syrup Adds a rich, earthy sweetness which enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Sugar Use granulated sugar for a classic sweet taste; adjust the amount for preferred sweetness.
Optional Add-ins
- Lemon slices Brightens the juice with a zesty kick.
- Orange slices Adds a hint of sweetness and a burst of citrus flavor.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the fresh or frozen cranberries under cool running water.
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed cranberries with 6 cups of water and bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.
- Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, press the cranberries against the side of the pot to release more juice.
- Carefully pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pitcher.
- While the juice is still warm, add honey, maple syrup, or sugar to taste, stirring thoroughly.
- For a zesty kick, add lemon and orange slices after sweetening.
- Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Once chilled, serve the cranberry juice over ice cubes in glasses, garnished with a lemon slice.
Notes
Choose quality berries for the best flavor. Don't overheat the cranberries; a gentle simmer is crucial for extraction.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cupCalories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 25gPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.3mg
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