There’s something magically comforting about steeping a pot of warm, fragrant spiced drink on a crisp fall day. Our Hot Mulled Cranberry Juice recipe embodies the essence of autumn and family gatherings, blending the tartness of cranberries with zesty orange and the cozy warmth of cinnamon and cloves. This heartwarming beverage is perfect for winding down after a day of festive activities, making it a cherished addition to your holiday repertoire. Let the rich aromas envelop you, as you pour a steaming mug and share it with your loved ones.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 cups cranberry juice
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/4 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 orange, sliced (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 whole cloves
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1/4 cup honey (or to taste)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the cranberry juice and apple cider. Set over medium heat.
- Add fresh cranberries, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it mull for 20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.
- Stir in honey to taste, adjusting the sweetness as needed.
- Strain the mulled juice to remove the spices and fruit.
- Serve hot, garnished with orange slices and extra fresh cranberries.
Helpful Tips
- For a deeper flavor, let the juice mull longer at a very low temperature.
- Add a splash of your favorite spirit, such as rum or bourbon, for an adult version.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste; nutmeg and star anise make great additions.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover mulled cranberry juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have apple cider, you can substitute with apple juice. Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a different natural sweetness.
Pairings
This Hot Mulled Cranberry Juice pairs beautifully with holiday cookies, pumpkin pie, or a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar and brie. Complement the drink with a lit candle, a cozy blanket, and your favorite movie for a perfect fall evening in.
We hope this Hot Mulled Cranberry Juice brings warmth and joy to your home this season. Don’t forget to share your delightful creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We’d love to see how you are enjoying this cozy beverage! Please leave your feedback on our website at Zynahz. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes, and follow us on social media to stay inspired.