Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher is a delightful drink that brings the vibrant flavors of cranberries and oranges together. This recipe is a copycat of a popular drink from Starbucks. It is perfect for hot days and gatherings, and it is very easy to make at home. Enjoy this refreshing beverage any time you want something tasty and satisfying.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love the Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher for many reasons. First, it is refreshingly sweet and tart. The mix of cranberry juice and orange juice creates a bright and zesty flavor that can lift your spirits. Second, the drink is easy to prepare. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a saucepan and a jar!

Additionally, this drink is very versatile. You can adjust the sweetness or add spices to fit your taste. It’s also fun to add fresh or freeze-dried cranberries for a beautiful finish. Lastly, this drink brings a festive vibe, making it great for holidays, parties, or just a sunny day in your backyard.

HOW TO MAKE Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher

Ingredients

To make the Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher, you will need the following ingredients:

0.5 cup 100 percent cranberry juice
0.5 cup blood orange juice or regular orange juice, pulp free
0.5 cup white grape juice
0.33 cup water
0.25 cup granulated sugar
0.25 teaspoon citric acid
0.5 cup lemonade
Ice
Freeze-dried cranberries or fresh cranberries for garnish
Warm spices (optional: 0.25 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 0.125 teaspoon nutmeg, pinch of ground cardamom)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Make the refresher base: Add all the ingredients (cranberry juice, blood orange juice or regular orange juice, white grape juice, water, granulated sugar, and citric acid) into a medium saucepan. Heat over low heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and everything is combined.
Cool the mixture: Once the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well blended, remove the pan from heat. Transfer the mixture into a large mason jar or any container. Let it cool completely before you use it.
Make the lemonade refresher: In a glass, stir together 0.5 cup of the Cran-Merry Orange Refresher Base with 0.5 cup of lemonade.
Finish and serve: Pour the mixture over ice. Top it with freeze-dried or fresh cranberries for a festive touch. Enjoy your drink!

HOW TO SERVE Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher

You can serve the Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher in a tall glass. Adding ice is a must for that cool and refreshing feeling. You can also garnish the drink with fresh cranberries on top or place them on the rim of the glass for a nice touch. If you want a more elegant serving, consider using clear glasses to show off the pretty colors of the drink.

This refresher pairs well with light snacks or appetizers. It is perfect for serving at parties, barbecues, or family gatherings. You can make a big batch and serve it in a pitcher, so everyone can help themselves.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher

If you have any leftover Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher, you can store it in the fridge. Pour the drink into a sealed container or jar. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For freezing, you can pour the refresher base into ice cube trays. Freeze them, and once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. You can use these ice cubes to chill other drinks or blend them into smoothies later.

Remember that fresh fruits used for garnish should be added when serving, as they don’t store well in the drink.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

There are many great ways to serve Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher:

With snacks: Serve it alongside light appetizers like cheese and crackers or fruit platters.
Family gatherings: This drink is a hit at family reunions or birthdays. It adds a festive touch to any table.
Holiday celebrations: Serve it during Thanksgiving or Christmas for a refreshing beverage option.
As a brunch drink: Pair it with light breakfast items like muffins or pancakes for a cheerful brunch setting.

VARIATIONS

You can change this recipe a bit to suit your tastes or needs. Here are a few ideas:

Sweetness preference: Adjust the sugar to make it sweeter or less sweet. You can use honey or agave syrup as an alternative sweetener too.
Different juices: Try using pomegranate juice or lemon juice along with the other juices for a unique flavor twist.
Add herbs: Muddle fresh mint leaves into the drink for a refreshing minty flavor.
Spiced version: If you like warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the refresher base for a cozy touch.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled juice?
Yes, you can use bottled juice as long as it is 100 percent juice without added sugars or preservatives.

2. Is this drink kid-friendly?
Absolutely! This Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher is great for kids and adults alike.

3. How long does the refresher base last?
The refresher base can last for up to three days in the refrigerator if stored properly.

4. Can I make this drink in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the refresher base in advance and mix it with lemonade just before serving.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher

Preparing ahead of time is easy with this refreshing drink. Here are some tips:

Prep the refresher base: Make the refresher base one or two days in advance. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to mix it with the lemonade.
Keep lemonade separate: Wait until you’re serving to mix the refresher base with the lemonade. This will keep the drink fizzy and fresh.
Garnish ahead: If you want, you can prepare the garnishes like fresh cranberries and keep them ready to add right before serving.

With these tips, you will enjoy a delicious and refreshing Cran-Merry Orange Lemonade Refresher anytime!