Winter Spritz
Introduction
When the cold weather sets in and the days grow short, there’s nothing quite like a warm, cozy drink to brighten your spirits. The Winter Spritz is the perfect choice for a chilly evening or holiday gathering. This delightful drink combines the festive flavors of cranberry juice, cinnamon, and ginger with a refreshing fizz. It’s the ideal blend for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of winter in a glass.
Why make this recipe
Making the Winter Spritz is a great way to bring warmth and cheer to any occasion. This drink is not only delicious, but it also looks beautiful with its vibrant colors and fragrant herbs. It’s easy to prepare and can be tailored to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe will surely impress your guests and lift your spirits. Plus, using fresh ingredients like rosemary and ginger adds a homemade touch that everyone appreciates.
How to prepare Winter Spritz
To prepare the Winter Spritz, you’ll first gather your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a glass or pitcher where you can mix everything together. Then, it’s all about combining the flavors and allowing them to mingle. The warming spices, fresh herbs, and vibrant juices come together to create a delightful drink that embodies the essence of winter. Here’s how to do it!
Ingredients:
200 ml veenbessensap
7 kruidnagels
2 kaneelstokje
5 plakjes gember
1 el citroensap
1 sinaasappel ((de schil))
60 ml Nona Spritz
200 ml ginger ale (of ginger beer)
spuitwater ((zie tips))
2 takjes rozemarijn
ijsblokjes
Steps:
-
In a medium saucepan, combine the veenbessensap, kruidnagels, kaneelstokje, gember, and citroensap. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. This helps to release the flavors and aromas of the spices.
-
While the mixture heats, use a vegetable peeler to carefully peel the outer skin of the sinaasappel. Make sure to avoid the bitter white pith. Add this peel to the saucepan, allowing it to infuse the drink with a citrusy aroma.
-
Once the mixture is warm, remove it from the heat and let it steep for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to deepen.
-
After steeping, strain the mixture into a large glass or pitcher to remove the spices and ginger pieces. You should have a fragrant, flavorful base for your Winter Spritz.
-
Add the Nona Spritz to the strained mixture and stir well.
-
For an effervescent touch, pour in the ginger ale or ginger beer, depending on your preference. Stir gently to combine.
-
Finally, add spuitwater to taste. This will lighten the drink and add a refreshing fizz.
-
Serve the Winter Spritz over ice cubes. Garnish with fresh rosemary branches for a festive touch.
Vooraf, Het serveren
Before serving, you can prepare the Winter Spritz base ahead of time. Prepare the mixture up to the point of adding Nona Spritz, ginger ale, and spuitwater. Store it in the fridge and mix in the fizzy components right before serving. This way, your drink remains bubbly and fresh.
How to serve Winter Spritz
Pour the prepared Winter Spritz into glasses filled with ice. Adding a sprig of rosemary not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a lovely aromatic touch when served. This drink is perfect for cozy nights in, gatherings with friends, or a festive celebration.
How to store 200 ml veenbessensap, 7 kruidnagels, 2 kaneelstokje, 5 plakjes gember, 1 el citroensap, 1 sinaasappel ((de schil)), 60 ml Nona Spritz, 200 ml ginger ale (of ginger beer), spuitwater ((zie tips)), 2 takjes rozemarijn, ijsblokjes
If you have leftover Winter Spritz ingredients that you don’t use, you can store them separately. Keep the cranberry base in the fridge for up to a week, and it will maintain its flavor. Ginger ale and spuitwater should be stored according to package instructions. Do not mix all the ingredients together if you plan on storing them; keep them separately to maintain freshness and fizz.
Tips to make 200 ml veenbessensap, 7 kruidnagels, 2 kaneelstokje, 5 plakjes gember, 1 el citroensap, 1 sinaasappel ((de schil)), 60 ml Nona Spritz, 200 ml ginger ale (of ginger beer), spuitwater ((zie tips)), 2 takjes rozemarijn, ijsblokjes perfectly
For the best Winter Spritz, start with high-quality cranberry juice. Look for pure juice with no added sugars. The spices should be fresh for maximum flavor; old spices may not provide the same aromatic richness. Experiment with the amount of ginger and cinnamon based on your preference for spice levels. Finally, always add the fizzy components last to keep your drink bubbly and refreshing.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with the Winter Spritz! If you want to try something different, you can substitute the cranberry juice with pomegranate juice for a twist. Adding a splash of rum or vodka can turn this mocktail into a festive cocktail for adults. If you love the idea of a warmer drink, consider serving it hot without the ginger ale for a comforting spiced punch.
FAQ
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry base and store it in the fridge. Just add the fizzy elements before serving for the freshest taste.
Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! The Winter Spritz is naturally non-alcoholic unless you choose to add spirits. Just enjoy it as is without any alcohol.
How long can I store the ingredients?
The cranberry base can last in the fridge for up to a week. However, always check the expiration date on the ginger ale and other fizzy components to ensure freshness.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a cozy Winter Spritz!
Winter Spritz
Ingredients
For the base
- 200 ml veenbessensap Use high-quality cranberry juice with no added sugars.
- 7 kruidnagels Fresh spices preferred for maximum flavor.
- 2 kaneelstokje Use fresh cinnamon for a richer taste.
- 5 slices plakjes gember Adjust the amount of ginger based on your spice preference.
- 1 tbsp citroensap Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended.
- 1 sinaasappel (de schil) Peel carefully to avoid the bitter white pith.
For serving
- 60 ml Nona Spritz
- 200 ml ginger ale (of ginger beer) Select based on your preference for sweetness and spice.
- to taste spuitwater Add to lighten the drink and add fizz.
- 2 sprigs takjes rozemarijn Garnish for aroma and decoration.
- ijsblokjes For serving the drink chilled.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, combine the veenbessensap, kruidnagels, kaneelstokje, gember, and citroensap. Heat the mixture over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Use a vegetable peeler to peel the outer skin of the sinaasappel, avoiding the bitter white pith, and add it to the saucepan.
- Remove from heat and let steep for about 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture into a large glass or pitcher, removing spices and ginger pieces.
Assembly
- Add Nona Spritz to the strained mixture and stir well.
- Pour in the ginger ale or ginger beer and stir gently.
- Add spuitwater to taste.
- Serve over ice cubes and garnish with fresh rosemary.
