Ruby Red Temple
A refreshing, fruity cocktail with tart cranberry and zesty orange flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or festive occasions, served chilled with cherries and orange wedges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In each of four 6-ounce glasses, spoon 2 teaspoons of frozen cranberry juice concentrate.
- Fill the glasses to the rim with chilled ginger ale.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Drop a maraschino cherry with stem and a wedge of fresh orange into each glass.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense cranberry flavor, consider using homemade cranberry juice instead of frozen concentrate. You can also substitute ginger ale with sparkling water for a less sweet version. If maraschino cherries aren't available, fresh cherries can add a nice touch, although they won't have the same sweetness. This drink pairs well with light appetizers or as a refreshing complement to a heavier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ruby Red Temple in festive glasses to enhance its visual appeal. It’s a fantastic non-alcoholic option for parties and pairs beautifully with light finger foods or appetizers. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Herbed Baby Potatoes or a refreshing salad. For a themed gathering, this drink can also complement a Jello Bundt Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
This drink is best consumed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the individual components separately. Keep the ginger ale chilled and the cranberry juice concentrate in the freezer. When ready to serve again, mix fresh ginger ale and cranberry juice, and add garnishes just before serving to maintain freshness and presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruby Red Temple contains roughly 147 calories, with 1g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% 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 in larger batches?
Absolutely! To serve a crowd, combine the frozen cranberry juice concentrate and ginger ale in a large pitcher. Just remember to keep the ratio consistent; about 2 teaspoons of cranberry juice for every 6 ounces of ginger ale. Add garnishes per glass or to the pitcher for a more festive approach.
Is this drink suitable for kids?
Yes, the Ruby Red Temple is a perfect non-alcoholic beverage for children. It's refreshing and flavorful without any alcohol, making it a great choice for parties or family gatherings. The fun colors and garnishes will appeal to kids, allowing them to enjoy a special drink alongside adults.
Can I use a different soda instead of ginger ale?
Certainly! While ginger ale adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with lemon-lime soda or tonic water for a different twist. Each option will alter the taste slightly, so feel free to experiment based on your preference. Just ensure the soda is chilled for the best experience.
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).