Apple Juice with Blackberry Syrup

1 . Stage

To make syrup: In a small saucepan, combine berries, sugar, and 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and pass through a sieve, pressing with the back of a wooden spoon so that only the seeds and skin are left behind. Discard contents of sieve.

2 . Stage

Stir lemon juice into syrup. You can use it immediately, or let cool and refrigerate up to 3 days.

3 . Stage

To serve: Heat apple juice (or simply use water, if preferred) in a pot or microwave. Stir about 2 tablespoons hot blackberry syrup into each cup of juice, until dissolved. Garnish with apple slices or blackberries, if desired.