Classic Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe

Classic Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe

This recipe yields a pure, tart and flavorful juice concentrate that you can adjust to your taste. It’s far superior and healthier than most store-bought versions, which are often loaded with added sugars and minimal cranberry content.

Classic Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of fresh or frozen organic cranberries

• 4 cups of cold filtered water

Flavor Boosters (optional):

• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3-4 strips of orange or lemon zest (peeled with a vegetable peeler)
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
• A pinch of ground cloves

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Cranberries

1. Rinse the cranberries thoroughly in a colander.

2. In a large pot combine the cranberries, water and any optional flavor boosters (cinnamon, citrus zest, ginger).

3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most cranberries have burst and softened. The liquid will turn a deep, vibrant red.

Step 2: Strain the Juice

1. Place a fine-mesh sieve or a colander lined with cheesecloth over a large bowl or pot.

2. Pour the mixture through to strain out all solids. Use a spoon to press the pulp to extract as much liquid as possible.

3. Discard the leftover pulp (or save it for cranberry sauce).

4. Let the sweetened juice concentrate cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Store & Serve

1. Pour the concentrate into a clean glass jar or bottle. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

2. To Serve: Shake well. Mix the concentrate with water or sparkling water at a1:1 to 1:3 ratio (e.g., 1/4 cup concentrate + 3/4 cup water), depending on your preferred strength.

3. Drink 8-16 oz (1-2 cups) of pure, unsweetened cranberry juice daily.

Recipe Variations & Tips

• 100% Pure, Unsweetened Juice: Omit the sweetener entirely for a potent, tart juice often used for potential urinary tract health support. You can sweeten individual servings lightly if needed.

• Apple-Cranberry Blend: Replace 2 cups of water with 2 cups of 100% apple juice for natural sweetness and a fruitier profile.

• Herbal Note: Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme while simmering for a sophisticated, herbal aroma.

• Pulp-Free vs. Cloudy: For crystal-clear juice, use cheesecloth and don’t press the pulp. For a more rustic, nutrient-rich juice with more body, simply blend the cooked mixture and strain once.

• Don’t Waste the Pulp: The leftover pulp is excellent stirred into oatmeal, yogurt or as a base for a quick cranberry relish or spread.

Enjoy your homemade and preservative-free cranberry juice! Cranberries are versatile, delicious, and nutrient-packed fruits that offer numerous health benefits.