Have you ever made homemade cranberry juice from scratch? Honestly, it's easier than you think, and the taste is so much fresher than anything from a bottle. This recipe is sweet, tangy, and has just the right balance of citrusy notes.
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The best part? You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries, and with just a few pantry staples, you'll have a pitcher of bright, refreshing juice ready to chill.
If you're looking for another refreshing drink recipe, you'll also love my jingle juice recipe- it pairs perfectly with this cranberry juice.
A little story behind the juice
When Emily was younger, she used to wrinkle her nose at store-bought cranberry juice because it was "too tart." But when I started making it at home, she changed her mind instantly. With a splash of orange juice and just enough sugar, it turned into her go-to drink on warm afternoons.
Cranberries have been around for centuries, originally used by Native Americans not just for food, but also as medicine and even dye. Today, making your own juice is such a comforting way to carry on that tradition - but with a modern twist.
Fun fact: in Spanish, cranberry juice is called jugo de arándano. I love little food translations like this because they make me feel connected to kitchens all over the world.
Why homemade cranberry juice is worth it
Making your own juice means:
- You get to control the sweetness.
- You skip preservatives and artificial flavors.
- You can add fun extras like sparkling water or even use it in cocktails.
Plus, cranberry juice is known for its health perks like supporting urinary tract health and providing antioxidants. But for me, it's the flavor and freshness that win every time.
Ingredients you'll need
- 4 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups water
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup orange juice
- Ice cubes (for serving)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Boil the cranberries
In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, combine the cranberries and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the berries begin to pop.
Step 2: Strain the juice
Carefully strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, pressing down with the back of a spoon to release as much juice as possible. Discard the solids and return the liquid to the pan.
Step 3: Sweeten and flavor
Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and orange juice. Bring everything back to a gentle boil, cooking just until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 4: Chill and serve
Remove from the heat and let the juice cool. Transfer to a pitcher, cover, and refrigerate until fully chilled. Serve over ice for the most refreshing taste.
Notes and tips
- Storage: Keep the juice in a sealed pitcher or jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Make it fizzy: Mix with sparkling water for a refreshing spritzer.
- Natural sweeteners: Swap sugar with honey or agave if you'd like a lighter option.
- Use the leftovers: Don't toss the cranberry pulp - stir it into muffins or smoothies for extra flavor and fiber.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly. Just thaw them before cooking.
Not at all. You can keep it tart or use a sugar substitute instead.
Add it to muffins, pancakes, or blend it into a smoothie.
Yes, it's rich in antioxidants and may support urinary tract health.
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📖 Recipe
Natural Cranberry Juice at Home
Sweet, tangy, and refreshingly citrusy – this homemade cranberry juice is easier than you think and way fresher than anything from a bottle. Perfect for warm afternoons or pairing with your favorite summer sipper.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups water
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup orange juice
- Ice cubes (for serving)
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, combine the cranberries and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the berries begin to pop.
- Carefully strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, pressing down with the back of a spoon to release as much juice as possible. Discard the solids and return the liquid to the pan.
- Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and orange juice. Bring everything back to a gentle boil, cooking just until the sugar has dissolved.
- Remove from the heat and let the juice cool. Transfer to a pitcher, cover, and refrigerate until fully chilled. Serve over ice for the most refreshing taste.
Notes
Keep the juice in a sealed pitcher or jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. Mix with sparkling water for a refreshing spritzer. Swap sugar with honey or agave if you’d like a lighter option. Don’t toss the cranberry pulp – stir it into muffins or smoothies for extra flavor and fiber.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 glassAmount Per Serving: Calories: 70Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 5mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 1gSugar: 15gProtein: 0g
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