Savor the refreshing tartness of homemade crabapple juice with this easy and delightful recipe. Bursting with natural flavor, this vibrant pink drink is crafted from just crabapples and water, with optional sugar and lemon juice for added sweetness and zest. The process highlights simple cooking techniques—boiling, mashing, and straining—resulting in a smooth, tangy juice that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfectly suited for a refreshing summer beverage, serve it chilled, over ice, or even diluted with sparkling water for a fizzy twist. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite meal, this versatile crabapple juice is sure to become a cherished homemade treat.
Wash the crabapples thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt and debris. Remove any stems and leaves.
Cut the crabapples in half to check for blemishes or worms, discarding any undesirable parts.
Place the halved crabapples in a large pot and add 1500 milliliters of water to fully submerge them.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the crabapples are soft and beginning to break down.
Use a potato masher or spoon to gently crush the cooked crabapples in the pot to release their juices.
Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl. Carefully pour the crabapple mixture into the strainer, allowing the juice to drain through. Press the pulp with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible.
If desired, add sugar and lemon juice to the strained liquid, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Pour the crabapple juice into clean, sterilized bottles or jars and let it cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.
Serve chilled or over ice. The juice can also be diluted with water or sparkling water for a lighter flavor.
Calories |
1434 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 4.1 g | 5% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g | 3% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 66 mg | 3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 382.1 g | 139% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 48.1 g | 172% | |
| Total Sugars | 300.8 g | ||
| Protein | 6.1 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 214 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 2.1 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 2173 mg | 46% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.