Fresh Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe (In 20 Minutes!)

I often make homemade cranberry juice recipe on cold winter mornings when I want something refreshing but a little comforting.

There’s something about the tart, crisp taste of Homemade Cranberry Juice that just makes me smile. The first time I made this juice, my kitchen smelled like the holidays—bright cranberries simmering with a touch of maple syrup and citrus.

It’s one of those recipes that feels special every time, especially when I know it’s made with just a few real ingredients and no store-bought additives.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is—no juicer, no fancy gadgets, just a pot, some cranberries, and a few pantry staples.

Every sip has that perfect balance of tart and sweet, and the color? Absolutely gorgeous! This juice doesn’t just taste amazing; it’s packed with natural goodness and a hint of brightness that lifts your mood instantly.

Whether you’re serving it at a holiday brunch, pouring it over ice on a warm afternoon, or mixing it into a sparkling mocktail, this Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe is one of those drinks that makes any moment feel a little extra special.

What is Cranberry Extract?

Cranberry extract is made from concentrated cranberries. It’s packed with antioxidants and is often used for urinary tract health, digestion, and immune support. But if you prefer something fresh and natural, making your own cranberry juice gives you all that goodness—without any preservatives.

What Are the Benefits of Drinking Cranberry Juice?

Cranberry juice is known for helping flush toxins, supporting urinary health, and keeping your immune system strong. It’s also rich in vitamin C, which helps your body stay healthy and hydrated.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe?

• Made with fresh cranberries and real maple syrup—no artificial flavors.
• It’s easy! Just simmer, strain, and sip.
• You can make it sweet, tart, or citrusy—your way.
• Great for sipping solo or mixing into your favorite drinks.

How to Make Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe?

Recipe Overview

This easy homemade cranberry juice is made by simmering fresh cranberries with water and a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness. Perfectly tart and refreshing, it’s great served chilled or over ice.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Beverage / Drink
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 4 servings
• Calories: ~100 per serving
• Serving Size: 1 cup

Equipment Needed: Medium saucepan, fine mesh strainer, spoon, glass pitcher, measuring cup

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh cranberries (or frozen)
• 4 cups water
• ½ cup real Vermont maple syrup (or honey or stevia to taste)
• ½ cup lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
• ½ cup orange juice (optional, for a citrus twist)

Ingredient Notes

• Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give the best flavor, but frozen work too.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a gentle sweetness. Adjust to your taste.
• Lemon & Orange Juice: Totally optional, but they add a nice bright flavor if you like your juice zesty.

Instructions

1. Boil the Cranberries

Add 4 cups of cranberries and 4 cups of water to a saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.

2. Simmer Until Soft

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes until the cranberries pop open.

3. Strain the Juice

Carefully pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher. Press the berries gently with a spoon to release all the juice.

4. Sweeten the Juice

Stir in maple syrup (or honey/stevia). Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.

5. Add Citrus (Optional)

Add lemon juice or orange juice if you want a little brightness.

6. Chill & Serve

Refrigerate until cold, then serve over ice. Fresh, tangy, and naturally delicious!

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 100
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugars: 22g
• Vitamin C: 20mg
• Fiber: 1g

Variations & Substitutions

▶ Unsweetened Cranberry Juice: Skip the sweetener for a sharper, tart flavor.

▶ Cranberry Apple Juice: Replace 2 cups of water with 2 cups of apple juice for a fruity blend.

▶ Cranberry Orange Juice: Add orange slices while simmering for a citrus burst.

▶ Canning Option: You can make homemade cranberry juice for canning—just pour the hot juice into sterilized jars and process in a water bath canner for about 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with ice and a slice of lemon.
• Mix it with sparkling water for a light mocktail.
• Add to cocktails for a festive twist (try it with vodka or Prosecco).
• Use it as a base for smoothies or popsicles.

Storing Tips

✔️Store in a sealed glass bottle or jar in the fridge for up to 7 days.

✔️Freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage—perfect for smoothies or cocktails later!

Helpful Tips

✅Don’t boil too long or the juice may turn bitter.

✅Always taste and adjust the sweetness before chilling.

✅Use a strainer or cheesecloth for a smoother finish.

✅Fresh cranberries give a stronger flavor than frozen ones.

• Serve cold for best flavor.
• Sweetness level depends on your taste.
• The juice will darken slightly as it cools—this is normal.
• Shake or stir before serving if it settles.

More Cranberry Recipes We Love

▶How to Make Cranberry Juice at Home

▶Pineapple Cranberry Juice Recipe

▶The Perfect Cranberry Orange Juice Cocktail

▶White Cranberry Christmas Mimosa

▶Thanksgiving Cranberry Spritzer Recipe

FAQ Section

Why I Love Making My Own Cranberry Juice?

There’s something satisfying about knowing exactly what’s in your glass. No added sugar, no preservatives—just clean, fresh flavor. Every time I pour a chilled glass, I’m reminded how easy it is to make simple things taste amazing at home.

So next time you’re craving something refreshing, skip the store-bought bottles and try this Homemade Cranberry Juice Recipe. Once you make it, you’ll never want to buy it again!