This Cranberry Rosemary Vodka Cocktail is a fun drink that mixes tart cranberry juice with the fresh taste of rosemary. It’s a perfect choice for a festive gathering or a cozy night in!
Honestly, the rosemary adds such a nice twist to this drink—it makes you feel fancy without trying too hard! I love serving it with ice and a sprig of rosemary on top. Cheers! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Any good quality vodka works here. If you want a flavored twist, try a citrus or berry-flavored vodka! Just keep in mind that it’ll change the overall taste a bit.
Cranberry Juice: Using unsweetened cranberry juice keeps the drink from being overly sweet. If you can’t find it, you can use a light sweetened option, but be careful with the amount of simple syrup later!
Simple Syrup: You can easily make your own by mixing equal parts sugar and water, heating until dissolved. For a healthier option, use honey or agave syrup. Just adjust the amount to fit your taste.
Fresh Rosemary: If you can’t find fresh rosemary, try using dried rosemary. Just use a pinch and add it during the shaking. Be cautious, as dried herbs are stronger in flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Cocktail is Chilled Perfectly?
Chilling your cocktail is essential for a refreshing drink. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a shaker filled with ice. Make sure there’s enough ice to chill the ingredients thoroughly.
- Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You should feel the shaker get cold.
- Strain the mixture into a glass with fresh ice to keep it cool while sipping.
- Top with the sparkling water last—it adds a lovely fizz and helps preserve the chill!
Enjoy this delightful cocktail at any gathering, and don’t forget to have fun with the garnishes! They make your drink look just as great as it tastes.
Cranberry Rosemary Vodka Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 3 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 oz sparkling water or club soda
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail comes together in just about 5-10 minutes. It’s super quick to prepare, so you’ll be sipping on something delicious in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cocktail Shaker:
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Use plenty of ice to really chill the drink since it enhances the refreshing quality of your cocktail.
2. Add the Ingredients:
Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup into the shaker. The combination of flavors is what makes this drink so special!
3. Shake It Up:
Secure the top on your shaker and shake well for about 15-20 seconds. You want it nice and cold, so shake vigorously!
4. Prepare Your Glass:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with ice cubes. This will keep your cocktail nice and cold while you enjoy it.
5. Strain and Pour:
Strain the cocktail mixture from the shaker into the glass, allowing it to flow over the ice. You’ll already see those lovely colors coming together!
6. Fizz It Up:
Top off your drink with the sparkling water or club soda. This gives it a pleasant fizz that makes it even more refreshing.
7. Garnish with Style:
Add a fresh sprig of rosemary and a few fresh cranberries for garnish. Not only do these make your drink look beautiful, but they add a lovely aroma as you sip!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, festive flavors of your Cranberry Rosemary Vodka Cocktail. Cheers to a delicious drink!
Can I Use Canned Cranberry Juice Instead?
Yes, you can use canned cranberry juice! Just check for any added sugars and be cautious with the simple syrup, adjusting it to your taste. Unsweetened varieties work best for this cocktail!
Can I Make This Cocktail in Larger Batches?
Absolutely! To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Mix everything in a pitcher and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just add the sparkling water just before serving to keep the fizz!
How to Adjust the Sweetness?
To adjust the sweetness, simply modify the amount of simple syrup you use. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go until you reach the desired sweetness. You can also use flavored syrups for a unique twist!
Can I Prep This Cocktail Ahead of Time?
For the best taste, it’s best to prepare this cocktail just before serving. However, you can mix the vodka, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it chilled. Add the ice and sparkling water when ready to serve for the best experience!
