Cranberry Orange Mocktail Bliss: A Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Favorite
A cranberry orange mocktail is one of those drinks that feels both festive and everyday-appropriate at the same time. You can serve it at a holiday party, baby shower, brunch, or just sip it on a Tuesday afternoon when you want something special without the alcohol.
Because it layers tart cranberry with bright, juicy orange and a bit of fizz, this mocktail delivers big flavor while still feeling light and refreshing. It also pairs beautifully with everything from appetizers to hearty salads, so it slips easily into any menu.
If you already love vibrant drinks like a wellness shot or a fresh smoothie, you will appreciate how a thoughtfully crafted cranberry orange mocktail can elevate your at-home beverage game. For more inspiration on refreshing drinks, you might also enjoy this simple strawberry banana smoothie recipe that balances sweetness and creaminess in a similar, satisfying way. As you explore this guide, you will learn how to make the perfect version of this drink, customize it for different seasons, and even turn it into a signature mocktail bar centerpiece.
Table of Contents
Cranberry Orange Mocktail Basics
What Is a Cranberry Orange Mocktail?
A cranberry orange mocktail is a non-alcoholic mixed drink that combines cranberry juice, orange juice, and usually a sparkling element, such as club soda, ginger ale, or sparkling water. It often includes sweeteners like simple syrup or honey and sometimes a touch of lime or lemon for added brightness.
Because it contains no spirits, this drink works for kids, adults who avoid alcohol, and anyone who wants a beautiful beverage that still feels elevated and complex. The balance of tart and sweet makes it more interesting than plain juice. Additionally, the rich red color from the cranberry, contrasted with bright orange slices and maybe a sprig of rosemary or mint, ensures this mocktail looks impressive in photos or on a buffet table.
Over time, this combination has become a staple at winter gatherings and holiday dinners, but its refreshing flavor makes it equally welcome at summer cookouts or spring brunches. When crafted with fresh citrus and quality cranberry juice, the mocktail can rival many cocktails in taste and sophistication.
Why This Mocktail Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Repertoire
Including a cranberry orange mocktail in your home rotation offers several benefits beyond the obvious flavor enjoyment. First, it provides a festive beverage option for guests who do not drink alcohol, so they never feel like an afterthought stuck with water or plain soda.
Second, the flavors pair well with a wide variety of dishes, from a crisp citrus fennel avocado winter salad to richer mains or holiday sides, because the tartness helps cut through heavier foods. Third, the mocktail’s ingredients are easy to find year-round, especially bottled cranberry juice and fresh oranges, so you can whip it up on short notice.
You also have plenty of room for creativity; you can experiment with sparkling water, flavored seltzers, herbs, or spices like cinnamon and clove. Finally, the drink can be prepared in single servings or scaled up into a party punch bowl. With a bit of planning, you can even prep most components ahead, making your hosting experience smoother and more enjoyable.
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Best Cranberry Orange Mocktail Recipe: How to Make a Delicious Non-Alcoholic Drink
- Total Time: 5 min
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
This cranberry orange mocktail is a refreshing, festive non-alcoholic drink made with tart cranberry juice, bright orange juice, and sparkling water. Perfect for holidays, brunch, baby showers, or everyday sipping.
Ingredients
4 oz cranberry juice (100% or lightly sweetened)
2 oz fresh orange juice
0.5–1 oz simple syrup or honey syrup (to taste)
2–3 oz sparkling water or ginger ale
Ice cubes
Optional garnishes:
Orange slices
Fresh cranberries
Rosemary or mint sprigs
Instructions
1. Fill a glass with ice
2. Pour cranberry juice and fresh orange juice over the ice
3. Add simple syrup or honey syrup to taste
4. Stir gently to combine
5. Top with sparkling water or ginger ale
6. Garnish with orange slices, cranberries, and herbs if desired
7. Serve immediately
Notes
Adjust sweetness depending on the tartness of your cranberry juice
Use ginger ale for a warmer, spiced flavor
Scale up easily for parties and punch bowls
Add lemon or lime juice for extra brightness
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: approx. 120
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Core Ingredients for the Best Cranberry Orange Mocktail
Choosing the Right Cranberry and Orange Juices
The quality of your cranberry orange mocktail depends heavily on the juices you choose. Cranberry juice comes in several styles: 100% cranberry juice (very tart), cranberry juice cocktail (sweetened and blended), and blends with other fruits like apple or grape.
For the most balanced mocktail, many home cooks prefer a mix of 100% cranberry juice with a small amount of sweeter juice or simple syrup. This way, you control the sweetness without losing the signature tart flavor. When it comes to orange juice, freshly squeezed makes a noticeable difference. Fresh orange juice brings bright acidity and natural sweetness, while shelf-stable versions can sometimes taste flat.
If you must use bottled, choose one that is not from concentrate and has no added sugar. The ratio between cranberry and orange can vary, but a common starting point is two parts cranberry to one part orange. This keeps the drink vibrantly red and tangy while allowing the citrus to shine. Taste and adjust as needed depending on the tartness of your specific juices.
Supporting Ingredients: Sweeteners, Citrus, and Fizz
Beyond cranberry and orange, your cranberry orange mocktail benefits from supporting elements that bring balance and texture. A sweetener usually helps smooth out the sharpness of cranberry.
Simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved) blends effortlessly into cold liquids. Honey syrup, made the same way, adds gentle floral notes. Agave syrup works well if you prefer a less processed option. Additionally, a small squeeze of lemon or lime lifts the flavors and keeps the drink from tasting one-dimensional.
For the fizz, club soda offers a clean, neutral sparkle, while ginger ale contributes both sweetness and a mild spicy warmth. Sparkling water flavored with orange or cranberry can add extra depth without extra sugar. Ice plays a role too; large cubes melt more slowly and keep the drink cold longer. Finally, garnishes like orange slices, fresh cranberries, and herbs such as rosemary or mint do more than decorate. They subtly perfume the drink and help create a multisensory experience with aroma and color.
Step-by-Step Cranberry Orange Mocktail Recipe
Simple Single-Serve Recipe with Measurements
To make a classic single-serving cranberry orange mocktail, you can follow a straightforward formula that is easy to memorize. In a tall glass or cocktail shaker, combine 4 ounces cranberry juice, 2 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice, and 0.5–1 ounce simple syrup, depending on your preferred sweetness.
Add a squeeze of lemon or lime, about 0.25 ounce, for extra brightness. Fill the shaker or glass with ice and stir or shake until well chilled. Then strain or pour into a glass filled with fresh ice, leaving some space at the top. Top off with 2–3 ounces of club soda or ginger ale, gently stirring to combine without losing too much carbonation.
Garnish with an orange wheel and a few fresh cranberries. This formula makes an adaptable base; you can reduce the simple syrup for a lower-sugar option or swap ginger ale for a warmer, more wintry profile. As you repeat this basic recipe, you will intuitively know how to adjust it to suit your tastes and the preferences of your guests, making you more confident in your mocktail-making skills.
Scaling Up for a Party Pitcher or Punch Bowl
When you host a gathering, preparing each cranberry orange mocktail individually can become tedious. Instead, scale the recipe into a pitcher or punch bowl. For about eight servings, combine 4 cups cranberry juice, 2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice, 0.5–0.75 cup simple syrup, and the juice of 2 lemons in a large pitcher.
Stir well and chill the mixture for at least one hour so the flavors meld. Just before serving, add 2–3 cups of chilled club soda or ginger ale and plenty of ice. Float orange slices and a generous handful of fresh cranberries on top. If you like, tuck a few sprigs of rosemary or mint into the pitcher for aroma and visual appeal.
To prevent dilution, you can use large ice cubes or even freeze some of the cranberry juice in ice cube trays to use as “flavor ice.” This method ensures your mocktail remains tasty over time. A punch bowl variation follows the same ratios, but you can place additional garnishes and ladles for self-service, freeing you to enjoy the party rather than tending the drink station constantly.
Flavor Variations on the Cranberry Orange Mocktail
Adding Herbs, Spices, and Seasonal Twists
Once you master the basic cranberry orange mocktail, you can start layering flavors with herbs and spices to match seasons or themes. For a winter twist, simmer your simple syrup with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a slice of fresh ginger, then strain and cool before using.
This spiced syrup transforms the drink into something reminiscent of mulled cider, but still cold and refreshing. In the summer, fresh herbs like mint, basil, or thyme work beautifully. Gently muddle a few leaves in the bottom of the glass with the simple syrup before adding juices and ice. This releases aromatic oils without making the drink bitter.
For a late-fall or holiday gathering, rosemary is a popular choice. Its pine-like aroma evokes the season and contrasts nicely with the bright citrus. You can also experiment with adding a splash of pomegranate juice for deeper color and extra tartness, or blending in a bit of apple juice for a smoother, more familiar fruit-forward flavor that even kids appreciate.
Making It Creamy, Sparkling, or Tropical
You can also change the texture and style of your cranberry orange mocktail. To create a creamy version, add a small splash of coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer and shake vigorously with ice. The cranberry and orange will turn a beautiful pastel shade, and the drink takes on a lush, dessert-like feel.
For those who love intense bubbles, increase the amount of sparkling water or use a strongly carbonated beverage like tonic water for added bite. If you enjoy tropical flavors, introduce pineapple juice to the mix. A ratio of 2 parts cranberry, 1 part orange, and 1 part pineapple gives a brighter, beachy vibe while still showcasing the cranberry.
You can also rim the glass with sugar or a mix of sugar and finely grated orange zest for another layer of sensory experience. These variations demonstrate how versatile a cranberry orange mocktail can be. Whether you want something elegant and restrained or fun and bold, a few tweaks let you customize the drink to your occasion, much like adapting salad recipes such as a vibrant panzanella salad for different seasons.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Antioxidants, Vitamin C, and Overall Wellness
A cranberry orange mocktail can offer more than visual appeal and great taste; it can also support wellness when made thoughtfully. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which may help support urinary tract health by preventing certain bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls.
They also provide vitamin C and other phytonutrients that may contribute to overall immune support. Oranges bring their own powerful dose of vitamin C, along with folate and potassium. When you combine these fruits, you create a beverage that offers a robust hit of antioxidants and immune-supportive nutrients in every glass.
While mocktails still contain natural sugars, especially if you add sweeteners, they can be much more wholesome than commercial sodas or artificially flavored drinks if you use 100% juices and moderate the added sugar. Sipping a cranberry orange mocktail alongside a nutrient-dense meal, such as a cranberry apple quinoa winter salad, gives you a balanced plate that supports energy and satiety while still feeling celebratory and indulgent.
Reducing Sugar and Making Smarter Ingredient Choices
To keep your cranberry orange mocktail more health-conscious, focus on controlling sugar content. If you start with 100% cranberry juice, which is very tart, you can sweeten it lightly with a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or agave rather than using heavily sweetened cranberry cocktail.
Fresh orange juice contains natural sugars but also fiber and nutrients, so it generally makes a better choice than orange soda or sugary drink mixes. You can also dilute the mocktail with extra sparkling water to reduce sugar per serving while still enjoying flavor.
For an even more wellness-focused approach, pair your mocktail with other nutrient-dense choices like a wellness shot juice as part of a brunch or self-care routine. Another strategy involves using stevia or monk fruit sweeteners in your simple syrup to cut down on added sugar, though you should test these with small batches to ensure you enjoy the taste. Ultimately, mindful ingredient selection allows you to enjoy the drink regularly without it becoming a sugar bomb.
Here is a simple comparison of common cranberry juice types for your mocktail:
| Juice Type | Taste Profile | Typical Sugar Content | Best Use in Mocktail |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Cranberry Juice | Very tart, intense | Low (natural sugars only) | Mix with sweetener and orange juice |
| Cranberry Juice Cocktail | Sweet-tart, milder | High (added sugar) | Use with less or no added sweetener |
| Cranberry Blend (with apple/grape) | Smooth, fruity | Moderate–high | Great for kid-friendly versions |
Garnishes, Glassware, and Presentation
Elevating the Look with Simple Garnishes
The presentation of your cranberry orange mocktail can transform it from “just a drink” into a memorable part of the meal. Garnishes do much of this work with minimal effort. Start with thin orange wheels or half-moons, which you can perch on the rim or float in the glass.
Fresh cranberries bobbing in the drink add vibrant color and festive flair. For texture, consider using a cocktail pick threaded with cranberries and a folded strip of orange peel. Herbs like rosemary or mint not only look elegant, but they also release aroma as you sip, enhancing the flavor perception.
In colder months, you might add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer, which subtly infuses the drink with spice over time. To create a more dramatic look, rim your glass by dipping it in orange juice and then in sugar or coarse sparkling sugar. This technique catches the light and signals that the beverage is special and worth savoring.
Choosing the Right Glass and Serving Style
Glassware also influences how your cranberry orange mocktail feels. A tall Collins glass highlights the drink’s layers and color, especially if you top it with a generous splash of sparkling water. Stemmed glasses like wine or coupe glasses lend a more formal, cocktail-like vibe, perfect for dinner parties or holiday celebrations.
Mason jars work well for casual gatherings, picnics, or backyard cookouts, and they are easy to carry. Additionally, you can create visual layers by carefully pouring the cranberry mixture over ice and then slowly adding the soda, allowing some separation for a gradient effect. For batch servings, a glass drink dispenser with a spigot shows off the beautiful color and garnishes while making self-service simple.
Regardless of the glass type, always chill it if possible; a cold glass helps keep the mocktail refreshing longer. These small presentation choices echo the impact that thoughtful plating has on dishes like a Brussels sprout salad, turning something simple into a restaurant-worthy experience at home.
Pairing Cranberry Orange Mocktails with Food
Perfect Pairings for Brunch and Light Meals
The bright flavor profile of a cranberry orange mocktail makes it a natural fit for brunch and lighter meals. Its citrus notes complement egg dishes, yogurt parfaits, and baked goods without overwhelming them.
For example, imagine serving this mocktail alongside a spread of quiches, fruit salads, and pastries; the tart cranberry helps cut through richness, while the orange adds cheerful freshness. Additionally, the mocktail matches nicely with salads that include fruit, nuts, or tangy dressings. A kale-based salad with citrus segments or a lightly sweet vinaigrette mirrors the drink’s notes and creates a cohesive flavor story on the table.
Because the drink is non-alcoholic, guests can enjoy more than one glass without feeling sluggish, which is especially useful during daytime gatherings where productivity or driving may follow. If you want to create a themed brunch, you can build your menu around bright, colorful dishes and let the mocktail serve as the focal point beverage, customizing variations for guests who prefer sweeter or more tart profiles.
Pairing with Savory, Hearty, and Holiday Dishes
Cranberry orange mocktails also pair beautifully with heartier, savory recipes, especially around the holidays. The tartness acts as a palate cleanser between bites of rich dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, or creamy casseroles. It works particularly well with vegetable-forward sides such as a green bean casserole or roasted root vegetables.
The mocktail’s acidity helps balance salty, umami flavors, while the orange brings a subtle sweetness that echoes traditional holiday flavors. For everyday dinners, serve it with roasted chicken, grain bowls, or even tacos. Its fruit-forward nature complements spicy or smoky elements without clashing.
When planning a menu, think of the mocktail like you would a light, fruity wine pairing: it should highlight the dish without competing for attention. During big meals, offering this non-alcoholic option ensures all guests, including kids and those avoiding alcohol, feel included in toasts and celebratory moments. The red color and fresh garnishes look festive on the table, enhancing the whole dining experience.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Batch Prep Tips
How Far in Advance You Can Prepare the Mocktail
A cranberry orange mocktail adapts well to make-ahead preparation as long as you manage a few elements carefully. You can mix the cranberry juice, orange juice, lemon or lime juice, and simple syrup up to 24 hours in advance and store this base mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The flavors will meld as the mixture chills, often tasting even better after a few hours. However, you should wait to add any sparkling components like club soda or ginger ale until just before serving to preserve the carbonation. Similarly, add ice at the last minute so it does not dilute the drink.
Garnishes such as orange slices and herbs can be prepped earlier in the day and kept in separate containers lined with damp paper towels to maintain freshness. When guests arrive, simply combine the chilled base with the fizzy element and serve. This approach significantly reduces last-minute stress and allows you to focus on conversation and other hosting tasks.
Storing Leftovers and Repurposing the Mixture
If you end up with leftover cranberry orange mocktail base (without soda), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days in a sealed jar or bottle. Over time, some separation may occur, especially if you included fresh pulp, so shake well before using it again. You can repurpose the base in several ways.
First, simply pour it over ice, top with sparkling water, and enjoy another mocktail. Second, freeze the mixture into ice cubes or popsicle molds to create colorful, fruit-forward frozen treats, perfect for warm days.
Third, use a splash of the mixture as a flavorful addition to smoothies; its tartness can help balance sweeter ingredients like bananas or dates. You might even use a small amount as a marinade component for poultry, combining it with herbs and olive oil for a subtle fruity note. By thinking creatively, you avoid waste and continue enjoying the flavors you worked to prepare.
Here is a quick reference for storage guidelines:
| Component | Storage Time | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juice + Syrup Base (no soda) | 3–4 days | Refrigerated, airtight | Shake before use |
| Prepared Mocktail (with soda) | Same day | Refrigerated, covered | Loses carbonation quickly |
| Garnishes | 1–2 days | Refrigerated, damp towel | Best when fresh |
Hosting a DIY Cranberry Orange Mocktail Bar
Setting Up a Self-Serve Mocktail Station
A DIY mocktail bar centered around a cranberry orange mocktail theme can become the highlight of your gathering. To set this up, prepare a large batch of the juice base (cranberry, orange, citrus, and sweetener) and keep it chilled in a pitcher or drink dispenser.
Next, arrange several bottles of sparkling options: plain club soda, flavored seltzers, and ginger ale. Provide a bucket of ice and a selection of glassware, such as tall glasses and stemmed options. Place small bowls of garnishes nearby: orange slices, lime wedges, fresh cranberries, and herbs like mint and rosemary.
You might label each component so guests understand how to build their own drinks. Include a small sign with a basic formula, such as “Fill glass halfway with juice base, add ice, top with soda, and garnish.” This setup not only entertains guests but also accommodates personal preferences for sweetness and fizz. Since everyone participates, you can spend less time behind the counter while still offering a custom drink experience.
Creative Variations and Kid-Friendly Options at the Bar
To make your cranberry orange mocktail bar even more engaging, offer a few flavor variations that guests can mix in. For example, set out small carafes of pineapple juice, apple juice, or pomegranate juice. You can also include a spiced simple syrup and a mint-infused syrup for people who enjoy more complex flavors.
Kids often love sweeter, colorful drinks, so including cranberry blends and maybe a bit of flavored sparkling water helps them feel involved. Consider adding a bowl of fun garnishes like colorful paper straws or sugar-rim stations where guests can dip glass rims in citrus juice and then in colored sugar. Adults may appreciate a “bold and tart” version sign that suggests extra cranberry or lemon juice, while others may prefer instructions for a “sweet and gentle” version with more orange or apple juice.
By offering guidance yet leaving final choices open, you create an interactive experience that feels both festive and inclusive, similar to building a customizable salad spread with hearty options like a kale salad or lentil-based dishes.
FAQ: Cranberry Orange Mocktail
Can I make a cranberry orange mocktail without added sugar?
You can absolutely make a cranberry orange mocktail without added sugar, but you will need to choose ingredients carefully. Start with 100% cranberry juice and freshly squeezed orange juice, which both contain naturally occurring sugars but no added sweeteners.
Because pure cranberry juice is extremely tart, you may want to increase the orange juice ratio slightly. For instance, try equal parts cranberry and orange juice instead of a 2:1 ratio. Then, dilute the mixture with sparkling water to soften the flavor and lower the sugar per serving.
A small squeeze of lemon or lime brightens the drink, while a few drops of liquid stevia or monk fruit (if you use them) can gently balance acidity without traditional sugar. Taste as you go to find your preferred balance.
How can I make a kid-friendly cranberry orange mocktail?
A cranberry orange mocktail already works well for kids, but you can tailor it to their preferences. Children often prefer sweeter, less tart drinks, so use a cranberry juice blend or cranberry cocktail instead of pure cranberry juice.
Combine it with freshly squeezed or high-quality orange juice, then top with lemon-lime soda or flavored sparkling water for bubbles. You might use fun garnishes like colorful straws, maraschino cherries, or fruit skewers made with orange segments and grapes. Serving the drink in smaller glasses helps with portion control and reduces spills.
You can also freeze some of the mixture into ice pops, turning the mocktail into a refreshing snack. Involving kids in assembling their own drinks at a mocktail bar encourages them to explore flavors and enjoy a festive, alcohol-free experience that feels special and grown-up.
What type of sparkling beverage is best for a cranberry orange mocktail?
The best sparkling beverage for a cranberry orange mocktail depends on the flavor profile and sweetness level you want. Club soda or plain sparkling water provides clean effervescence without altering the flavor or sugar content, making it great for those watching their sugar intake.
Ginger ale adds sweetness and a touch of spice, creating a warmer, more comforting drink that suits fall and winter gatherings. Flavored seltzers, such as orange, cranberry, or lime, bring subtle additional notes without much sugar, if any.
Tonic water delivers strong bitterness, which some people enjoy in more adult-tasting mocktails, though it can overpower delicate flavors if used heavily. Often, hosts provide two options, club soda and ginger ale, so guests can choose. Experiment with small batches to decide which base best complements your chosen cranberry and orange juices and your desired level of sweetness.
Can I turn this cranberry orange mocktail into a frozen drink?
Yes, turning your cranberry orange mocktail into a frozen drink creates a slushy, almost dessert-like treat perfect for hot weather or casual parties. To do this, mix your cranberry juice, orange juice, and sweetener as usual, but skip the soda for now.
Pour the mixture into a blender with a generous amount of ice, and blend until you reach a smooth, slushy texture. If the blend seems too thick, add a bit more juice; if it feels too thin, add more ice.
You can then pour the slush into glasses and top lightly with sparkling water or ginger ale for a fizzy finish. Garnish with orange slices and cranberries. This method slightly mutes intense tartness, so you may want to keep the cranberry ratio high. Frozen mocktails feel especially fun at summer gatherings, pool parties, or outdoor barbecues.
How do I keep a large batch of cranberry orange mocktail from getting watered down?
To prevent a large batch of cranberry orange mocktail from becoming watered down, manage the ice strategically. Instead of filling your pitcher or punch bowl with regular ice cubes, freeze some of your cranberry orange juice base in ice cube trays ahead of time.
These “flavor cubes” chill the drink while maintaining its intensity as they melt. You can also use large-format ice blocks or spheres, which melt more slowly than small cubes and dilute less. Keep the main batch refrigerated until just before serving and add ice only when it is about to go out on the table.
If you have space, serve ice on the side in a separate bucket, allowing guests to add as much or as little as they like. Additionally, wait to add sparkling components until right before serving, ensuring both strong flavor and good carbonation.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Cranberry Orange Mocktail All Year
A thoughtfully crafted cranberry orange mocktail offers far more than a simple mixed juice. It delivers a vibrant balance of tart cranberry and sweet orange, customizable levels of fizz, and endless opportunities for variation with herbs, spices, and additional fruits.
You can scale it for parties, dress it up with elegant garnishes, or keep it simple for an everyday refreshment. When paired with wholesome dishes, from hearty salads to comforting casseroles, it brings bright contrast and a sense of celebration to the table. As you experiment, you will discover your favorite ratios and flavor twists, perhaps even developing a signature version to share with friends and family.
For more ideas on building a balanced, flavorful menu around your mocktail, consider exploring veggie-forward dishes like a cozy warm lentil and roasted vegetable salad to round out your next gathering. With a little practice and creativity, your cranberry orange mocktail can become a staple recipe you return to throughout the year.
For more seasonal juice inspirations, check out my Pinterest.