Try this quick cranberry cocktail: mix 2 oz cranberry juice, 1 oz vodka, and 1 oz lime juice; shake with ice and serve over ice with a lime wedge.
Brighten your gatherings with these easy cranberry cocktail recipes that blend tart, sweet, and fizzy flavors. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or casual happy hours, these drinks come together in minutes with simple ingredients.
Why Cranberry Cocktails?
Cranberry juice brings vibrant color and health benefits to cocktails. It’s rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. The tartness balances sweet mixers while adding festive flair. These recipes work year-round – just adjust garnishes for seasonal appeal.
Essential Equipment
For perfect cocktails every time, use a quality blender when recipes call for crushed ice or frozen fruit. A stainless steel shaker keeps drinks chilled while mixing.
1. Sparkling Cranberry Vodka Spritz
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 3 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- 2 oz club soda
- 1 tsp simple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice
- Add vodka, juices, and syrup
- Top with club soda
- Garnish with lime wedge and cranberries
Tip: For a festive touch, rim the glass with sugar mixed with orange zest.
2. Bourbon Cranberry Smash
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bourbon | 2 oz |
| Cranberry juice | 3 oz |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 oz |
| Maple syrup | 1/2 oz |
| Fresh mint | 3 leaves |
Instructions
Muddle mint with syrup in a shaker. Add remaining ingredients with ice. Shake vigorously and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with mint sprig and cranberry skewer.
3. Cranberry Margarita (Crowd Favorite)
This twist on the classic margarita comes from Gimme Some Oven and has become a holiday staple. The orange liqueur complements cranberry’s tartness beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz tequila
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 3/4 oz orange liqueur
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. Float fresh cranberries on top.
4. Non-Alcoholic Cranberry Fizz
Perfect for designated drivers or family gatherings. Simply Recipes suggests using ginger ale for extra zing.
Ingredients
- 4 oz cranberry juice
- 2 oz orange juice
- 3 oz sparkling water
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
Build over ice in a Collins glass. Stir gently to combine. Add more sparkling water for lighter flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Cocktails
Juice Selection
Opt for 100% cranberry juice, not cocktail blends. The tartness balances sweet ingredients better. Look for cold-pressed options when possible.
Ice Matters
Use large, clear ice cubes for slow melting. Crushed ice works well in frozen variations.
Batch Preparation
For parties, mix juices and alcohol in pitchers. Add sparkling elements just before serving to maintain carbonation.
Creative Garnishes
- Candied cranberries
- Rosemary sprigs
- Cinnamon sticks
- Citrus twists
- Edible flowers
These cranberry cocktails offer endless variations. Experiment with different spirits, juices, and garnishes to create your signature holiday drink. The vibrant color and balanced flavors will impress guests at any gathering.
