Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups unsweetened cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen whole cranberries
- 3 large strips of orange peel (pith removed)
- 6 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics: Start by washing your orange thoroughly. Use a vegetable peeler to remove wide strips of the zest, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath. Place the orange peel, whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks into a medium-sized saucepan. Bruising the cloves slightly with the back of a spoon before adding them can help release their natural oils more effectively.
- Step 2: Simmer the Mixture: Pour the cranberry juice, water, and whole cranberries into the saucepan with the spices. Add your sweetener of choice. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture steep for about 12 to 15 minutes. This allows the cranberries to soften and the spices to fully infuse the liquid without boiling away the juice.
- Step 3: Garnish and Serve: Taste the drink and add more honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter profile. Use a fine-mesh strainer if you prefer a clear drink, or simply use a slotted spoon to remove the large spices. Pour the hot spiced juice into heat-proof glass mugs. Add a few of the cooked cranberries and a fresh strip of orange peel to each glass. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary for an extra aromatic touch and serve immediately.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes