Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 2 cups orange juice (no pulp)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole star anise
- 6 whole cloves
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- Optional: 1 cup Bourbon, Vodka, or Spiced Rum (for the boozy version)
- Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and wash the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water. Slice the orange into thin rounds, removing any seeds you encounter. If you are using honey, ensure it is at room temperature so it dissolves easily. Measure out your juices and spices so they are ready for the pot.
- Combine the cranberry juice, orange juice, and honey in a large saucepan or a slow cooker. Whisk gently until the honey dissolves. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Do not let it reach a rolling boil, as this can make the juice taste bitter. Let the spices infuse for at least 15 minutes. If using a slow cooker, set it to “Low” for 2 hours to let the flavors meld deeply.
- Ladle the hot drink into heat-proof mugs or glass Irish coffee cups. For the nonalcoholic version, serve as is. To make it boozy, stir in 1.5 ounces of your chosen spirit per mug. Garnish each drink with a few fresh cranberries, an orange slice, and a fresh rosemary sprig. The rosemary adds a wonderful pine aroma that screams holiday season.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes