Ginger Apritinis

Name: Ginger Apritinis
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 servings (3 quarts).
Ingredients: 4 cups sugar; 4 cups water; 1/2 cup chopped fresh gingerroot; 1 vanilla bean; 4 cups apricot nectar, chilled; 3 cups white cranberry juice, chilled; 1/2 cup lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Our home economists developed this recipe for folks who want to offer guests an adult-style beverage without the alcohol. The simple syrup is enhanced with gingerroot and vanilla bean.

Ingredients

4 cups sugar
4 cups water
1/2 cup chopped fresh gingerroot
1 vanilla bean
4 cups apricot nectar, chilled
3 cups white cranberry juice, chilled
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions

In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, water and ginger. Split vanilla bean and scrape seeds; add bean and seeds to sugar mixture. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for 1 minute. Remove from the heat; cover and let stand for 20 minutes. Strain mixture, discarding ginger and vanilla bean. Refrigerate until chilled.
In a large pitcher, combine the remaining ingredients; stir in sugar mixture. Serve in cocktail glasses.

To Make Ahead: Prepare the ginger syrup up to a week in advance; cover and store in the refrigerator.