Juice Box Recipe

Combine juices

In a large pitcher or mixing bowl, pour 2 cups fresh orange juice, 1 cup apple juice, and 1 cup pineapple juice. Stir gently to combine so flavors marry evenly.

Taste for balance

Taste the combined juices. The blend should be fruity and naturally sweet with a bright citrus top note from the orange.

Add lemon and sweetener

Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice to introduce acidity and 1 tablespoon honey or agave to round the edges. If using honey, warm it slightly or dissolve it into a tablespoon of warm juice first so it mixes smoothly.

Stir in a pinch of fine sea salt to enhance the fruit flavors and balance sweetness. Mix thoroughly and taste again.

Infuse with mint and ginger (optional)

If using, bruise 6 fresh mint leaves by gently clapping them between your hands or lightly muddling in the palm of a spoon, then add to the pitcher. Stir in 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger for a zesty kick. Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to infuse; do not over-steep mint to avoid bitterness.

Chill

If you want the juice cold immediately, add 1 cup of ice to the pitcher and stir until chilled. For best flavor without dilution, chill the juice in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes and add ice only when serving or just before packaging.

Strain (optional)

If you used ginger or mint and prefer a clear juice, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids. Use a spoon to press liquid through, then discard solids.

Using a small funnel, pour the prepared juice into four 240 ml (8 oz) juice boxes or resealable bottles. Fill each container, leaving a small headspace (~1 cm) for expansion if you plan to chill or freeze.

Seal the boxes or bottles. If using disposable juice boxes, insert straws when ready to serve. Label with date and refrigerate immediately.

Serve chilled. Fresh homemade juice is best consumed within 48 hours refrigerated. If unopened and refrigerated, consume within 48 hours; if frozen in suitable containers, consume within 2–3 weeks. Shake gently before opening if separation occurs.