It’s time to fill your pantry shelves with a few jars of bright, tart homemade simple cranberry juice. When the cranberry harvest rolls around, we love making our own cranberry juice from whole cranberries. This recipe is super easy too.
This simple method is perfect for beginners who want to learn the basic methods of water bath canning.
If this is your first time preserving juice, you’re in the right place. Cranberries are naturally high acid foods, which makes them ideal for boiling water canner processing.
Plus, unlike store-bought cranberry juice loaded with high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners, this version is made from real fruit and a little granulated sugar, giving you full control over the sweetness and strength of your homemade juice.
Why Canning Cranberry Juice Is Worth It
There’s something deeply satisfying about creating your own pantry staples. This homemade canned cranberry juice is:
- Made with whole berries for a full, rich flavor.
- A wonderful holiday season gift or base for festive drinks.
- Shelf-stable when properly sealed jars are stored in a cool dark place.
- A great way to use bags of fresh cranberries during cranberry season.
- Packed with natural antioxidants that support your immune system.
It’s a beautiful balance of tradition, self-sufficiency, and good old-fashioned flavor.
Simple Cranberry Juice Canning Recipe for Beginner
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Ingredients
- 3 Cups Cranberries fresh whole cranberries
- 4 Cups Water enough to fill the jars leaving 1-inch headspace
- 1 Cup Sugar Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste
Instructions
- Prepare Your Equipment. Wash canning jars, lids, and screw bands in hot soapy water. Rinse well, then keep your hot jars warm in the canner or oven until ready to fill. This step helps prevent breakage when adding hot juice.
- Fill the Jars. For quart jars, spoon in about 1 ½ cups of whole cranberries; for pint jars, use ¾ cup. If you like a touch of sweetness, add ½ cup of sugar to quarts, or 4 tablespoons to pints.3 Cups Cranberries, 1 Cup Sugar
- Next, pour boiling water over the berries and sugar, filling the jars while leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Take a moment to gently stir around the edges with a utensil to release any trapped air bubbles. You might even hear the berries pop softly as they settle in the hot water.4 Cups Water
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a damp towel (a little vinegar helps ensure a strong seal), then place the lids on and tighten the screw bands just until fingertip tight. Your jars are now ready for the next step of water bath canning.
- Process the Jars. Gently place your filled jars into the water bath canner, making sure they’re covered by at least 1–2 inches of hot water. Bring the water to a full rolling boil, then set your timer to process the jars for 25 minutes. This works for both quart and pint jars. If you live at a higher elevation, be sure to adjust the processing time accordingly.
- Once the time is up, turn off the heat and carefully lift the jars out using a jar lifter, placing them on a clean towel to cool. As they rest, you may hear the familiar “ping” of the lids sealing. A satisfying sound that means your homemade cranberry juice is safely preserved and ready to store for the season.
Notes
- Large stock pot or large saucepan
- Boiling water canner or water bath canner
- Quart jars or pint jars, with screw bands and new lids
- Measuring cups and a ladle
- Canning funnel (optional but helpful)
Nutrition
Serving Tips
After 4–6 weeks, the flavor mellows beautifully. Serve chilled, warmed in a microwave oven, or mixed with sparkling water. For a festive touch, add orange juice or apple juice.
If you prefer less concentrated juice, dilute with hot water or cold water before serving.
Homemade Cranberry Juice: The Perfect Holiday Gift
This homemade cranberry juice recipe makes a gorgeous holiday gift that showcases the spirit of home canning and homestead living. The jewel-toned juice looks beautiful with a simple ribbon or tag.
Add a sprig of evergreen and a handwritten note like “From our homestead kitchen to yours.” It’s heartfelt, practical, and always appreciated.
You can make them ahead during cranberry season and have ready-to-give gifts come December. Perfect for neighbors, teachers, or family.
Easy Whole Cranberry Juice Recipe
This simple cranberry juice canning recipe for beginners is a wonderful introduction to home preservation. It’s one of those projects that feels special every step of the way. From the scent of simmering berries to the gentle “ping” of cooling lids.
Once you make your own homemade juice, you’ll never look at store-bought cranberry juice the same way again. With a little time, you’ll have something real, beautiful, and completely your own.
Easy and delicious cranberry recipe.