We’re sharing our favorite holiday beverage with you today! This tart cherry “wine” is inspired by the traditional and oh-so-delicious mulled wine, which usually combines red wine with spices to make a warming, comforting beverage. The tart cherry juice was substituted for the wine, and we were amazed by the results (and health benefits)!
This is a tasty, non-alcoholic version of mulled wine. You can add whiskey or even Rum to give it a more boozy flavor. This looks just like the real deal, is great for the holidays, and will smell amazing in your kitchen. Only five ingredients are needed, one pot, and just 20 minutes! We’ll show you!
Tart Cherry Juice Health Benefits
Tart cherry juice’s natural dark red color is an indication that it contains antioxidants. Sour cherries contain a lot of polyphenols, and they have even more antioxidants than red wine. ).
Tart cherry juice has been shown to have health benefits in small human studies. These include 1) improving sleep quality and quantity and increasing melatonin levels ( source), 2). aiding recovery after intense physical activity ( source), 3) reducing LDL cholesterol and blood pressure ( source). It is also high in potassium!
Tart Cherry Juice: Where to buy?
Tart cherry juice is available in almost all grocery stores. It is almost always available in health food stores, such as Whole Foods and Natural Grocers. But even mainstream grocery stores sell tart cherry juice. If you can’t find it in a regular grocery store, check the health food section.
How to make Tart Cherry Mulled Wine
This tart cherry version is similar to mulled wines. We make it by simmering whole spices (cinnamon cloves and star anise) in the liquid in order to infuse flavor.
Orange juice, with its natural sweetness, is a great addition to the tart cherry juice.
We can guarantee a few things after simmering for 15 minutes:
- Spices will be added to the tart cherry juice
- Strain and enjoy is all that remains!
- It’s a hit with everyone (even your boozy buddies, who can spice it up by adding whiskey or Rum).
- You will love the smell of your kitchen!
Ingredients
- We used RW Knudsen tart cherry juice, NOT tart cherry concentrate.
- Orange peel: 2 Tbsp (1/2 of an orange – the white pith is bitter)
- Cinnamon sticks, two pieces
- Five cloves of whole cloves
- Star anise, two whole
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed Orange juice (from 1 orange)
- Whiskey or spiced Rum (optional/ 1 oz per portion)
FOR SERVING Optional
- Orange Rounds
- Extra cinnamon sticks and whole spices
Instructions
- Add orange peel, cloves, and star anise to a large pan.
- Stir over medium heat until it simmers, then turn down to medium-low and let the flavors develop for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer, and add whiskey or spiced Rum (if you are using it). Serve warm.
- Fresh is best. The leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat the pieces in a pan or microwave until they are warm. This product is not freezer-friendly.