Lemonade, it's a classic favorite and immediately takes me back to summers in the yard sipping down giant cups full of the beverage with my little brother. It's one of those nostalgic drinks that can transport you to a simpler time in your life. I mean, lemonade stands? We all had them. It's still my drink of choice during the warmer months, but my most recent thought is why can't we add it to fall and winter season fare as well? Turns out, we can! And I made it happen with the help of Tropicana® Original Lemonade (they also have Tangerine Lemonade, which sounds amazing). As someone who grew up near the Tropicana® plant in Florida they've always been my brand of choice, so it was an obvious fit for partnering on this recipe. #MixedWithTrop
As far as crafting the recipe goes, my initial thought was a cocktail would be the best way to add a grown-up spin on lemonade but later decided that it would be even better if I could share the same feeling that lemonade brings me with the boys. Thus a winter mocktail was born. *Feel free to add a shot of vodka or spiced rum to the recipe to elevate girl's night get-togethers or holiday parties. It would absolutely make for a vibrant cocktail.
Now, when I think of fall and winter I immediately think of the fruits of the season: cranberries and oranges. You can find them in abundance and they'll likely end up in some form or another on your Thanksgiving table this month with some of your other staples. The oranges are a sweet citrus while the cranberries add a hearty tart flavor, making them the ideal additions to lemonade. Mix them together for a colorful, flavorful concoction that will have you convinced lemonade is no longer reserved for Spring and Summer.
Winter Cranberry Orange Lemonade (Serves 6)
1 59 oz. bottle Tropicana® Lemonade
1 12 oz. bottle of Tropicana® Cranberry Cocktail
1 cup of fresh cranberries, whole and halved
2 large oranges, sliced
In a pitcher add fruit and lemonade. Stir. Add cranberry cocktail.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. I left mine for a couple of hours to let the flavors soak into the fruit and vice versa.
Garnish with orange halves and cranberries. Serve chilled.
This post is sponsored by my friends at Tropicana® and Megan Media. All opinions are my own.