Cranberry-Spiced Holiday Sparkler
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or unsweetened cranberry juice (or use homemade cranberry juice with no added sugar)
- 2 cups sparkling water (or club soda)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1-2 tsp fresh lime juice (to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (for a citrusy touch)
- 1-2 tsp honey or a low-calorie sweetener like stevia (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
- Ice cubes
- Orange and lime slices (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
- Cinnamon sticks (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Mix the juice and spices: In a pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, fresh lime juice, and fresh orange juice. Stir until the spices are well incorporated. If you like it sweeter, add honey or your preferred sweetener.
Add the sparkle: Just before serving, pour in the sparkling water or club soda to give it a fizzy kick. Stir gently to combine.
Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cranberry-spiced mixture over the ice.
Garnish: Garnish with fresh lime and orange slices, a few fresh cranberries, and a cinnamon stick if desired. The cinnamon stick also makes a great stirrer!
Enjoy: Serve immediately for a refreshing, festive holiday drink that’s low-calorie and perfect for everyone!
Why It's Low-Calorie:
- Cranberry Juice: Opt for unsweetened cranberry juice or make your own to avoid the sugar found in commercial versions. Cranberries are naturally tart, so they provide great flavor without added sugar.
- Sparkling Water: The sparkling water or club soda adds effervescence without any added calories, keeping the drink light and refreshing.
- Spices and citrus: Ground cinnamon and ginger, plus the fresh lime and orange juice, give the drink a flavorful, spiced twist that feels indulgent without extra calories.
This Cranberry-Spiced Sparkler is not only festive but a great alternative to sugary holiday drinks, keeping the focus on fresh, natural flavors. Perfect for family gatherings, and it can be made in a large batch for parties or served in individual glasses for a more personalized touch. Enjoy!
Renay
xo
