Mulled Pomegranate and Cranberry Drink
Introduction
This mulled pomegranate and cranberry drink is warm, bright, and easy to make. It fills the kitchen with a spicy, citrus scent. The drink mixes tart cranberry and sweet pomegranate with warm spices. It works for cold nights, holiday gatherings, or quiet mornings. If you like fruit-forward warm drinks, try a similar cold option like this cranberry sangria mocktail recipe for a summer version. This mulled version is simple and friendly for beginners. The steps are short. The results feel special.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is worth making because it is fast and forgiving. It needs few ingredients. The juices do most of the work, so there is no peeling, chopping, or long prep. The spices add depth without being fussy. You can control the sweetness with honey or skip it. The drink warms the body and lifts the mood. It also makes a good nonalcoholic choice for family events. The citrus slices add a fresh note and they look nice in mugs. This recipe scales easily. Double or halve it without stress. It also pairs well with simple snacks and desserts.
How to prepare Mulled Pomegranate and Cranberry Drink
Gather the ingredients and a large pot. Slice the orange and lemon so the oils release into the liquid. If using ginger, slice thin so the heat draws out flavor. Add the spices whole. Simmer gently to keep the juices bright and to let the spices open up. Do not boil. Boiling can dull the flavors and make the citrus bitter. After simmering, strain the drink so it pours clear and smooth into mugs. Taste and adjust the honey if the drink needs a touch more sweetness. Serve while warm.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pomegranate juice
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 star anise (optional)
- Ginger slices (optional, to taste)
Steps:
In a large pot, combine the pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, honey, orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and ginger. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Strain the drink into mugs and serve warm. Enjoy your festive drink!
How to serve Mulled Pomegranate and Cranberry Drink
Serve this drink in heatproof mugs or teacups. Add a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick to each cup for a pretty touch. If serving a crowd, keep the pot on very low heat and stir occasionally. For a fancier look, float a few thin cranberries or a strip of orange peel on top. Offer small spoons for guests to fish out citrus slices and spices if they prefer a clearer drink. This drink pairs well with baked goods, cheese plates, and roasted nuts. For an adult version, add a splash of rum or brandy to each cup just before serving.
How to store 2 cups pomegranate juice, 2 cups cranberry juice, 2 tablespoons honey (optional), 1 orange, sliced, 1 lemon, sliced, 2 cinnamon sticks, 5 whole cloves, 1 star anise (optional), Ginger slices (optional, to taste)
Let the mulled drink cool to room temperature before storing. Pour it into a clean, sealed container and put it in the fridge. Use within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave-safe cup. Heat until warm but do not boil. If the drink thickens or changes texture, give it a quick stir. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Tips to make 2 cups pomegranate juice, 2 cups cranberry juice, 2 tablespoons honey (optional), 1 orange, sliced, 1 lemon, sliced, 2 cinnamon sticks, 5 whole cloves, 1 star anise (optional), Ginger slices (optional, to taste) perfectly
Start with good quality juices. Pure pomegranate and cranberry juices give the best taste. Taste as you go and add honey a little at a time. The acidity in the juices can change how much sweetness you need. Keep the heat low once the pot is warm. A gentle simmer releases spice flavors without turning the citrus bitter. Use whole spices for a cleaner flavor. If the spices feel too strong, remove them early. For a brighter drink, add a splash of fresh orange juice at the end. If using ginger, slice thin for more heat or keep larger pieces for a milder note. Strain well to remove cloves and other spices so the drink pours smoothly.
Variations (if possible)
Make a spiced punch by adding apple cider and reducing the cranberry by half. For a lighter version, use sparkling water just before serving to add fizz. Add fresh cranberries while simmering for a fruity boost and a nice look. Try a sweeter profile by using maple syrup instead of honey. For a boozy twist, add brandy, dark rum, or spiced rum to taste. Swap star anise for a few whole cardamom pods for a different spice note. If citrus is not available, a few strips of orange peel will still add good flavor.
FAQ
Can this drink be made ahead of time?
Yes. Make it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving. The flavors may deepen overnight, which many people enjoy.
Can I use fresh pomegranate instead of juice?
Yes, but expect more prep. Fresh pomegranate must be juiced or blended and strained. Use equal volume of fresh juice for the same flavor.
Is this drink sweet?
It is mildly tart with a touch of sweetness. Add more honey if you like it sweeter. Taste first, then add small amounts until it suits your preference.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat fully before drinking.
Mulled Pomegranate and Cranberry Drink
Ingredients
Juices and Sweetener
- 2 cups pomegranate juice Use pure juice for best flavor.
- 2 cups cranberry juice Use pure juice for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons honey Optional, adjust sweetness to taste.
Fruits and Spices
- 1 orange, sliced Slice to release oils.
- 1 lemon, sliced Slice to release oils.
- 2 sticks cinnamon For warm spice flavor.
- 5 whole cloves For fragrant flavor.
- 1 star anise Optional, can be replaced with cardamom.
- to taste Ginger slices Optional, slice thin for more heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather the ingredients and a large pot.
- Slice the orange and lemon so the oils release into the liquid.
- If using ginger, slice thin so the heat draws out flavor.
Cooking
- In a large pot, combine pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, honey, orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and ginger.
- Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Strain the drink into mugs and serve warm.
