Warm Cranberry Drink

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Warm Cranberry Drink for its balance of tart and sweet flavors, paired with comforting spices that fill your home with a cozy aroma. It’s simple to make, caffeine-free, and ideal for both kids and adults. Whether served at a holiday brunch or enjoyed by the fire on a chilly night, it’s a beautiful, versatile beverage that’s both refreshing and warming.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cranberry juice (unsweetened or sweetened, depending on preference)
• Water
• Honey, sugar, or maple syrup (to taste)
• Cinnamon sticks
• Whole cloves
• Orange slices or peel
• Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberry juice, water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.
2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
4. Taste and add honey or sugar to adjust sweetness as desired.
5. Strain the mixture into mugs to remove the spices and fruit.
6. Garnish with fresh cranberries or an orange twist if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy the festive aroma and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Cranberry-Apple Drink: Mix half cranberry juice and half apple cider for a sweeter, rounder flavor.
• Citrus Cranberry Drink: Add lemon slices or a squeeze of orange juice for a bright citrus note.
• Ginger Cranberry Drink: Add a few slices of fresh ginger for a spicy, invigorating twist.
• Sparkling Cranberry Drink: Cool the mixture and top with sparkling water for a fizzy version.
• Cranberry Tea Blend: Steep a black or herbal tea bag in the hot drink for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cranberry drink in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warm, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling during reheating to preserve the flavor and color. If serving cold, pour over ice and garnish with fruit for a refreshing version.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of juice?

Yes, simmer 2 cups of fresh cranberries with water and sweetener, then strain for a natural cranberry base.

Can I make it without added sugar?

Yes, if your cranberry juice is sweetened, you may not need additional sweetener. Adjust to taste.

Can I add alcohol to this drink?

Yes, a splash of red wine, rum, or brandy turns it into a cozy adult beverage.

What type of cranberry juice works best?

Pure cranberry juice gives a tart flavor, while cranberry cocktail is sweeter and less tangy.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and keep on low for 2–3 hours. Perfect for parties.

Can I use ground spices instead of whole ones?

Yes, use a small pinch of ground cinnamon and cloves, but strain well to avoid residue.

Is this drink caffeine-free?

Yes, it’s naturally caffeine-free and suitable for all ages.

How do I make it more tart?

Use unsweetened cranberry juice and reduce the added sweetener.

Can I serve it chilled?

Absolutely! It’s just as refreshing cold, especially with sparkling water added.

What foods pair well with this drink?

It pairs wonderfully with baked goods, roasted nuts, or holiday desserts like pies and cookies.

Conclusion

Warm Cranberry Drink is a delightful blend of tart fruitiness and cozy spice, perfect for warming up on cool days or celebrating the holiday season. Its simple ingredients and beautiful presentation make it an easy yet elegant beverage for any occasion. Whether you serve it hot at a gathering or sip it quietly on a winter evening, every cup offers a comforting taste of seasonal joy.

Warm Cranberry Drink

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Warm Cranberry Drink is a cozy, spiced beverage that combines tart cranberry juice with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus for a festive and comforting flavor. Naturally caffeine-free and easy to make, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 4 cups cranberry juice (unsweetened or sweetened)
• 1 cup water
• 2–3 tbsp honey, sugar, or maple syrup (to taste)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4–5 whole cloves
• 2 orange slices or peel
• Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberry juice, water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.
2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
4. Taste and sweeten with honey or sugar as desired.
5. Strain the mixture to remove the spices and fruit.
6. Pour into mugs and garnish with fresh cranberries or an orange twist.
7. Serve hot and enjoy the fragrant, warming flavors.

Notes

• Use unsweetened cranberry juice for a more tart flavor or cranberry cocktail for a sweeter version.
• Add the sweetener gradually, tasting as you go.
• Simmer gently—avoid boiling too long to preserve the bright color and flavor.
• This drink can be served warm or chilled over ice.
• Perfect for batch-making in a slow cooker during holidays.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg