Try mixing cranberry juice, vodka, and a splash of club soda for a refreshing simple cranberry cocktail perfect for any occasion.
Fresh cranberry cocktails bring festive flair to any gathering. These simple recipes balance tart cranberry with sweet, citrus, and bubbly elements for crowd-pleasing drinks. From quick two-ingredient mixes to showstopping margaritas, discover your new favorite holiday beverage.
1. Sparkling Cranberry Vodka Spritz
This 3-ingredient cocktail delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The perfect balance of tart and sweet makes it ideal for holiday parties.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 3 oz cranberry juice
- 2 oz club soda
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice
- Add vodka and cranberry juice
- Top with club soda
- Garnish with lime
For a festive twist, rim glasses with sugar or use frozen cranberries as ice cubes.
2. Cranberry Margarita
A holiday twist on the classic margarita that’s become a fan favorite. The tart cranberry perfectly complements the tequila’s bite.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tequila | 2 oz |
| Cranberry juice | 2 oz |
| Triple sec | 1 oz |
| Lime juice | 1 oz |
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with lime and fresh cranberries.
3. Cranberry Orange Sparkler
This non-alcoholic option pleases all ages with its vibrant citrus-cranberry flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 oz cranberry juice
- 2 oz orange juice
- 2 oz ginger ale
- Orange slice garnish
Combine juices over ice, top with ginger ale. For an adult version, add 1.5 oz vodka or blend with ice for a frozen treat.
4. Cranberry Rum Punch
A tropical take on cranberry cocktails that’s perfect for holiday beach vacations.
- Mix 2 oz dark rum with 3 oz cranberry juice
- Add 1 oz pineapple juice
- Splash with lime juice
- Shake and serve over crushed ice
Garnish with pineapple wedge and mint sprig for island vibes.
5. Cranberry Gin Fizz
A sophisticated option featuring herbal gin notes that complement cranberry’s tartness.
- 2 oz gin
- 3 oz cranberry juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Soda water to top
Build in a tall glass over ice. Add a squeeze of lemon and rosemary sprig for aromatic garnish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Cocktails
Juice Selection
Opt for 100% cranberry juice, not cocktail blends, for authentic flavor. Ocean Spray’s 100% juice or Simply Cranberry work well.
Fresh Ingredients
Use freshly squeezed citrus juices when possible. The brightness elevates the entire drink.
Garnishes Matter
Sugared cranberries, citrus twists, or herb sprigs add visual appeal and aromatic complexity.
Batch Preparation
For parties, mix juices and alcohol in pitchers (without ice or bubbles). Add those when serving to maintain freshness.
Equipment Notes
While most recipes just need basic bar tools, consider a quality blender for frozen variations.
