Christmas Cran-Apple Sparkler

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry juice, apple cider, and lemon juice. Stir well.
2. Add the fresh cranberries and apple slices to the pitcher.
3. Fill serving glasses with ice.
4. Pour the cranberry–apple mixture into the glasses, filling them about two-thirds full.
5. Top each glass with sparkling water or club soda just before serving.
6. Stir gently and serve chilled.

Variations

• Add a cinnamon stick to each glass for a warm, spiced note.
• Replace sparkling water with ginger ale for a sweeter, softly spiced version.
• Add a splash of pomegranate juice for deeper color and flavor.
• For an adult version, mix in a small amount of vodka or sparkling wine.

Tips

• Freeze cranberries into ice cubes for a decorative, non-diluting touch.
• Chill all ingredients beforehand to ensure the drink stays refreshingly cold.
• Prepare the juice mixture ahead of time, but wait to add sparkling water until serving to maintain the fizz.