Hot Cranberry Citrus Drink Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Approximately 3 quarts
Description:
A delightful beverage perfect for a festive holiday brunch or as a cozy alternative to coffee. This Hot Cranberry Citrus Drink brings together the tartness of cranberries, the tanginess of lemon, and the warmth of cinnamon for a flavorful experience. Plus, it’s low in protein, low in cholesterol, and healthy, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cranberries
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 cinnamon stick
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 431.3
- Fat: 0.6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 21.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 109.3g
- Fiber: 5.8g
- Sugar: 93.6g
- Protein: 1.9g
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cranberries: In a large saucepan, combine the cranberries and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Cook the Cranberries: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the cranberries simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to pop.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture back to a boil.
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Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly.
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Strain the Mixture: After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the liquid to remove the cranberry pulp and cinnamon stick. Discard the solids.
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Serve: Transfer the hot cranberry citrus drink to a heatproof pitcher or individual mugs. Serve warm and enjoy!
Storage Tips:
- This Hot Cranberry Citrus Drink can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When ready to serve, simply warm the drink in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish each serving with a twist of lemon peel or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Pair this drink with your favorite holiday treats like cookies, cakes, or pastries for a festive spread that’s sure to delight guests of all ages.
Keywords:
Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Less than 60 Minutes
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a comforting beverage to enjoy on a chilly day, this Hot Cranberry Citrus Drink is sure to become a new seasonal favorite. Bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s a delightful way to spread warmth and cheer to all who sip it. Cheers to happy holidays and delicious drinks! 🍹🎄
