This refreshing cranberry and orange juice blend is a perfect pick-me-up! It’s sweet and tart, making it a hit for breakfast or as a snack. Plus, it’s super quick to make!
I love how bright and zesty this drink is! It gives me a little boost of energy, and I often make extra to share with friends. Trust me, they’ll love it as much as you do! 🍊❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: Aim for 100% pure cranberry juice. It’s less sweet and more tart than blends. If you’re short on cranberry juice, pomegranate juice is a good alternative, capturing some similar flavors.
Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed oranges give the best flavor! If fresh oranges aren’t available, store-bought juice works too, but make sure it’s not from concentrate. You could also try tangerine juice for a sweeter twist.
Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice gives extra tartness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is fine in a pinch. I often skip it if I prefer a sweeter juice.
Sweetener: I generally use honey for its flavor, but you can choose sugar or even agave syrup. Adjust the sweetness based on your taste—taste as you mix!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from Fresh Fruit?
Getting the most juice from your fruits is key. Here’s how:
- Roll the oranges on the counter with gentle pressure before cutting. This makes juicing easier.
- Use a citrus juicer or a reamer to get every last drop.
- Strain the juice if you want it pulpless. I love some pulp for texture, so I skip this step!
Making fresh juice is simple and brings out amazing flavors. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t go back to the store-bought stuff!
How to Make Cranberry and Orange Juice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cranberry juice (preferably 100% pure)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra tartness)
- 1-2 tsp honey or sugar (optional, to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Orange slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing drink takes about 10 minutes to prepare. All you need is some juicing, mixing, and garnishing to whip up this delicious cranberry and orange juice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Juice the Oranges:
If you’re using fresh oranges, start by squeezing the juice from about 2 large oranges. You should end up with about 1 cup of fresh juice. To get the most juice out, roll the oranges on the counter before cutting. This really helps!
2. Mix the Juices:
In a large mixing glass or pitcher, combine 1 cup of cranberry juice and the freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir gently to mix them together harmoniously.
3. Add Lemon Juice (Optional):
If you like a bit more tartness, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the mix. This step is optional but definitely adds a zesty kick!
4. Sweeten to Taste:
If you like your juice on the sweeter side, stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey or sugar. Mix until the sweetener is fully dissolved in the juice.
5. Prepare the Glasses:
Grab your serving glasses and fill them with ice cubes. This keeps the juice nice and cold and refreshing!
6. Pour and Garnish:
Pour the cranberry-orange juice over the ice in each glass, filling them up nicely. For a festive touch, garnish with a slice of orange on the rim and drop a few fresh cranberries into the drink.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately while it’s nice and cold. Take a sip and enjoy the refreshing, tangy flavor—you deserve it!
This delightful beverage is perfect for any time of day and makes for an excellent treat during holidays or gatherings. Cheers!
Can I Use Canned Cranberry Juice?
Yes, you can use canned cranberry juice, but make sure it’s 100% pure for the best flavor. Just be aware that some canned varieties may have added sugars, so adjust the sweetness accordingly!
Can I Substitute Other Juices?
Absolutely! If you’re out of cranberry juice, pomegranate juice is a great alternative. You can also mix in some grapefruit juice for a different twist. Just remember to taste and adjust the sweetness as needed!
How Do I Store Leftover Juice?
Store any leftover cranberry and orange juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will be good for up to 2 days. Give it a stir before serving again to mix the flavors back together!
Can I Make This Juice Without Sweetener?
Of course! The natural sweetness from the orange juice may be enough for you. Just taste your mix before adding any sweetener, and adjust based on your preference!