Cranberry Apple Juice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry apple juice is the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory properties, making this juice a great option for boosting your immune system and supporting overall health. Apples bring natural sweetness along with fiber and a variety of nutrients. The combination of these two fruits creates a deliciously fresh beverage that is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be enjoyed year-round.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed

• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

• 4 cups water

• 1-2 tablespoons honey or sweetener of choice (optional)

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

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

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine the cranberries, chopped apples, and water.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the apples are softened.

3. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the fruit mixture until it is mostly smooth.

4. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the pulp and seeds.

5. Pour the strained juice back into the pot and add honey or sweetener to taste, along with the optional lemon juice for added tartness.

6. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved, then chill the juice in the refrigerator.

7. Serve over ice or enjoy chilled directly from the refrigerator.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Cranberry Apple Juice: Add a cinnamon stick and a few cloves while simmering the juice for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Add Orange: Include the juice of one orange or a few orange slices for an extra citrusy twist.

• Sugar-Free Version: Omit the honey or use a natural sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol for a sugar-free version.

• Sparkling Cranberry Apple Juice: For a fizzy twist, top the juice with sparkling water or club soda when serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy this juice warm, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat until it reaches your desired temperature. However, it’s also just as delicious served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before using them in the recipe. They’ll work just as well as fresh cranberries.

Can I make this juice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this juice in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Can I use a juicer instead of simmering the fruit?

Yes, if you have a juicer, you can skip the simmering step. Simply juice the cranberries and apples, then strain if necessary, and add sweetener and lemon juice to taste.

Is this juice good for urinary tract health?

Yes, cranberries are known for their ability to help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to their high levels of proanthocyanidins, which help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls.

Can I add more sweetness to this juice?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey, sugar, or any sweetener of your choice. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Can I use store-bought cranberry juice instead of fresh cranberries?

Yes, you can use store-bought cranberry juice if you prefer. Just be sure to choose unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice for a more natural taste.

Is this juice gluten-free?

Yes, cranberry apple juice is naturally gluten-free as it contains only fruits and water.

Can I make this juice into a smoothie?

Absolutely! You can blend the strained juice with ice, a handful of spinach, or even some yogurt for a refreshing smoothie.

Can I add other fruits to this juice?

Yes! You can easily add other fruits like pears, pomegranates, or berries to create a more complex flavor profile.

How can I make this juice more tart or sweet?

To make the juice more tart, you can add more cranberries or a splash of lemon juice. To make it sweeter, simply add more honey or another sweetener of your choice.

Conclusion

Cranberry apple juice is a deliciously refreshing, nutrient-rich beverage that’s easy to make and full of health benefits. The tartness of cranberries combined with the sweetness of apples makes this juice a perfect drink for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a healthy pick-me-up or a refreshing snack. Customize it with your favorite additions, and enjoy this delicious, homemade juice all year long!

Cranberry Apple Juice

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Cranberry Apple Juice is a vibrant, refreshing drink that combines the tartness of cranberries with the natural sweetness of apples. This juice is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and a burst of flavor that will leave you feeling refreshed and energized. It’s a delicious, nutrient-rich beverage that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Drink
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Juice

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed

4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped

4 cups water

1–2 tablespoons honey or sweetener of choice (optional)

1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

Ice cubes (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the cranberries, chopped apples, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the apples are softened.
3. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the fruit mixture until it is mostly smooth.
4. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the pulp and seeds.
5. Pour the strained juice back into the pot and add honey or sweetener to taste, along with the optional lemon juice for added tartness.
6. Stir until the sweetener is fully dissolved, then chill the juice in the refrigerator.
7. Serve over ice or enjoy chilled directly from the refrigerator.

Notes

• For a spiced version, add a cinnamon stick and a few cloves while simmering the juice.
• Include the juice of one orange or a few slices of grapefruit for an extra citrusy twist.
• For a sugar-free option, omit the honey or use a natural sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol.
• Top the juice with sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg