Hot Cranberry-Apple Drink
Warm and festive, this cranberry-apple drink combines tart cranapple juice with sweet apple cider, enhanced by cinnamon sticks and optional red hot candies for a cozy holiday treat.
Ingredients
- 1 part cranapple juice
- 2 parts apple juice or cider ⓘ
- 1/2 cup red hot candies (optional)
- 5 to 6 cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a large crock-pot.
- Let simmer until flavors meld and the drink is heated through.
- Serve warm at holiday gatherings or winter parties.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter drink, feel free to add more red hot candies or substitute with cinnamon-flavored hard candies if desired. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of apple juice or use unsweetened apple cider. Consider using fresh spices for a more robust flavor. This drink pairs beautifully with Mrs. Laura'S Dump Cake for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this warm drink in festive mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick for added flavor. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or winter parties, and pairs well with sweet treats like cookies or a slice of Two Crust Pie. Consider offering it alongside Grilled Marinated Salmon for a unique flavor contrast during a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pour the drink back into a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Cranberry-Apple Drink contains roughly 23 calories, with 0g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the drink in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in a crock-pot before serving to ensure it's warm and the flavors have melded.
Is it possible to make this drink non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally non-alcoholic as it uses juices and candies. It's a great option for all ages, making it perfect for family gatherings or holiday parties.
Can I use different types of juice?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different juice combinations! For instance, you can use cranberry juice or pear juice to change the flavor profile. Just keep the proportions similar for the best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).