This refreshing Cranberry-Orange Punch Recipe is perfect for any festive gathering or a cozy family get-together. The tartness of fresh cranberries combined with the sweet and citrusy notes of orange creates a beautifully balanced drink that everyone will love. To make this punch, start by blending cranberry juice with freshly squeezed orange juice for a vibrant base. You can add a splash of sparkling water or club soda for some fizz, and sweeten it with a little honey or agave syrup, depending on your preference. Garnish with orange slices, fresh cranberries, and mint leaves for a festive touch. This punch can be served chilled, making it ideal for holiday celebrations, brunches, or any casual occasion. It’s also incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the sweetness or even add a splash of your favorite non-alcoholic spirit for extra flavor. Enjoy this healthy, delicious drink with friends and family!
Refreshing Cranberry-Orange Punch Recipe – A Healthy, Vegan Holiday Drink
Cranberry-Orange Punch is a delightful, refreshing beverage that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet, zesty flavor of oranges, making it an ideal drink for holidays, celebrations, or just a refreshing treat throughout the year. This healthy, non-alcoholic punch recipe is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious beverage without any added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or simply looking for a drink that pleases all ages, this Cranberry-Orange Punch offers both a vibrant color and a taste that will excite your taste buds. It’s quick to prepare, easy to serve in large quantities, and an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 60 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 12g (naturally occurring from the fruit)
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin C: 60% of the recommended daily value
- Potassium: 130mg
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 4 cups fresh orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar (adjust to sweetness preference)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cups water
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice (optional, for added zest)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (for a burst of extra citrus flavor)
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Fresh mint sprigs (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for garnish)
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Active Time
- Active Time: 5 minutes
Resting Time
- Resting Time: 30 minutes (to allow flavors to blend)
Total Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Cuisines
- Cuisine: American, Vegetarian, Vegan, Holiday Drink
Course
- Course: Drink, Beverage, Non-Alcoholic Punch
Servings
- Servings: 6-8 servings (depends on cup size)
Calories
- Calories per serving: 60 kcal
Equipment
- Large pitcher or punch bowl
- Saucepan for simmering cranberries and spices
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Stirring spoon
- Ice cube tray (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Begin by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries with 4 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to help release the juices from the cranberries.
2. Simmer and Mash:
Once the cranberries start to burst, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for 10 minutes. You can lightly mash the cranberries with the back of a spoon to release more juice and flavor. Add the cinnamon stick during this process for an aromatic touch.
3. Strain the Cranberry Juice:
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Strain the cranberry mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large pitcher or punch bowl to remove the cranberry skins and seeds. You should be left with a beautiful, vibrant cranberry juice.
4. Mix in the Orange Juice and Sweetener:
To the strained cranberry juice, add the fresh orange juice, maple syrup (or agave nectar), and orange zest. Stir well to combine. The natural sweetness of the orange juice and maple syrup will perfectly balance the tartness of the cranberries.
5. Chill the Punch:
Allow the cranberry-orange mixture to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the mixture in the freezer for 15-20 minutes, but be sure to check that it doesn’t freeze solid.
6. Serve:
Once chilled, stir the punch again and taste it. If you’d like it a bit more tart, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. If it needs more sweetness, adjust the maple syrup to taste. Serve the punch over ice cubes if desired and garnish with fresh mint sprigs and orange slices.
7. Enjoy!
Your Cranberry-Orange Punch is ready to serve. Pour into glasses and enjoy this vibrant, refreshing, and nutritious drink!
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry-Orange Punch:
- Make Ahead: This punch can be made a day ahead. Simply store the cranberry-orange mixture in the refrigerator and serve it chilled on the day of your event. This gives the flavors more time to develop.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your cranberries and oranges, you may want to adjust the sweetness level. Feel free to add more maple syrup or a sweetener of your choice.
- Add Sparkle: For a fizzy twist, top the punch with club soda or sparkling water right before serving. This will give the punch an extra burst of freshness.
- Non-Alcoholic: This recipe is naturally alcohol-free, making it suitable for all ages. However, if you prefer an adult version, you can add rum or vodka to taste.
Health Benefits of Cranberry-Orange Punch
This drink is not only refreshing but also packed with numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamin C: Both cranberries and oranges are excellent sources of vitamin C, an essential nutrient for immune function, skin health, and collagen production.
- Antioxidant Power: Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- Hydration: With a water-based foundation, this punch helps keep you hydrated while also offering the benefits of fresh fruits.
- Low in Calories: This punch is low in calories, making it a great option for those who want a healthy, guilt-free drink.
Conclusion
Cranberry-Orange Punch is a delicious, nutrient-packed, and festive drink that everyone can enjoy. With its beautiful color, fresh flavors, and natural sweetness, this vegan, non-alcoholic beverage is the perfect way to celebrate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or just want a refreshing drink to enjoy, this punch is sure to please all ages and dietary preferences.
This simple recipe is easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and packed with health benefits, making it a must-have on your recipe list. So go ahead, prepare this vibrant drink, and enjoy the compliments that will surely come your way!