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Spiced Cranberry Juice

Spiced Cranberry Juice


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Plant-Based

Description

Spiced Cranberry Juice is a warm, aromatic beverage that blends tart fresh cranberries with bright citrus and inviting warm spices. Naturally sweetened and plant-based, it offers comforting flavors perfect for cozy moments or festive gatherings. This drink balances sweetness and spice in a smooth, vibrant juice that can be served warm or chilled.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Spices

  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 cloves
  • 1 star anise pod

Natural Sweeteners

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (natural) or date syrup (natural)

Optional

  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cranberries and Citrus: Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly. In a medium pot, combine cranberries with freshly squeezed orange juice and orange zest to create a bright and lively base.
  2. Add Spices and Liquid: Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, apple cider vinegar, and water to the pot. Simmer gently to allow the spices to infuse the juice with warm, balanced flavor.
  3. Sweeten and Simmer: Stir in your chosen natural sweetener. Continue simmering until the cranberries soften and the mixture develops a rich, spiced aroma.
  4. Strain and Optional Texture: Strain the juice through a fine mesh to remove solids for a smooth consistency. If a thicker texture is desired, stir in the natural gelling agent, then let the juice cool slightly.
  5. Serve Warm or Chill: Enjoy the spiced cranberry juice warm for a cozy treat or chill it for a refreshing, spiced cold beverage.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm cranberries for a brighter, more vibrant juice.
  • Simmer gently to keep flavors clean and aromatic without boiling aggressively.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually by starting with less sweetener and adding more to taste.
  • For richer flavor, prepare the juice a day ahead and refrigerate overnight.
  • Tie spices in a small muslin bag for easy removal after simmering.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Beverages
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Fat: 0.2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 0.3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: spiced cranberry juice, warm cranberry drink, natural sweetener beverage, plant-based juice, festive drink, cozy drink