Create a cozy, spiced holiday drink with this Warm Mulled Cran-Apple Spritzer recipe. It blends traditional comforting flavors with a bright, refreshing finish.
Author:Jun Spoon
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Beverage
Method:Stovetop Simmering
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups Cranberry Juice
4 cups Apple Cider
1/2 cup Orange Juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
1 Cinnamon Stick
4 Whole Cloves
2 Star Anise
1 Orange, sliced
1 cup Sparkling Water or Club Soda (chilled)
Garnish: Thin apple slices or fresh cranberries
Instructions
Combine the cranberry juice, apple cider, orange juice, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise in a saucepan.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until it simmers. Do not boil.
Reduce the heat to low. Add the orange slices.
Simmer gently for 15 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the liquid.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the whole spices (cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise). Keep the orange slices in the liquid.
To serve immediately, pour the warm mulled base into mugs.
Top each serving with a splash of chilled sparkling water for effervescence.
Garnish with fresh apple slices or cranberries.
Notes
You can prepare the mulled base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
If you prefer a less tart drink, use 3 cups of apple cider and 3 cups of cranberry juice.
For an extra layer of flavor, add 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced, during the simmering process.