Cranberry Orange Lemonade
This vibrant Cranberry Orange Lemonade combines fresh cranberries, bright citrus, and just enough sweetness to create a refreshingly tangy beverage perfect for any occasion. The ruby-red color and complex flavor profile elevate this drink beyond ordinary lemonade.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
- 3 cups water divided
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 6-8 lemons
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice about 2 large oranges
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 4 cups cold water or sparkling water
- Ice cubes for serving
- Fresh cranberries orange slices, and lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Create the cranberry syrup: Combine cranberries, sugar, and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes until cranberries burst and soften completely.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing gently with a wooden spoon to extract all the juice. Discard the solids or save for another use. Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the citrus: While the syrup cools, juice your lemons and oranges. Remember to zest an orange before juicing it to capture those aromatic oils.
- Combine the flavors: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled cranberry syrup, lemon juice, orange juice, and orange zest. Stir well to combine all elements thoroughly.
- Dilute to perfect strength by adding the remaining 4 cups of cold water or sparkling water. Stir gently to combine without losing carbonation if using sparkling water.
- Chill thoroughly for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Serve with presentation in mind by pouring over ice in glasses garnished with fresh cranberries, orange slices, and lemon wheels for a visually stunning beverage.
Notes
- For a less sweet version, start with 3/4 cup sugar and adjust to taste.
- The cranberry syrup can be made up to 5 days ahead and refrigerated until ready to use.
- For an adult version, add 1.5 oz vodka, white rum, or gin per serving.
- Substitute honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile (use about 3/4 cup as they’re sweeter than sugar).
- Freeze some of the mixture in ice cube trays to use instead of regular ice for serving to prevent dilution.