As the weather cools down and the holidays approach, it's time to start thinking about festive drinks. And what better way to celebrate than with a delicious cranberry cocktail?
Cranberries are a staple of the season, with their sweet-tart flavor and festive red color. They're also packed with antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your holiday libations.
But with so many cranberry cocktail recipes out there, how do you choose the best one? That's where I come in.
As a bartender with years of experience, I've tried countless cranberry cocktails and have narrowed down the top contenders. From classic recipes to modern twists, there's a cranberry cocktail for everyone.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just want to cozy up by the fire with a festive drink, a cranberry cocktail is the perfect choice.
So grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Rum and Cranberry Juice Cocktail
The Rum and Cranberry Juice Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Cosmo. Made with white or light rum and unsweetened cranberry juice, this cocktail is perfectly balanced with simple syrup and tangy lime.
The bright pink hue of the drink makes it a fun and festive addition to any party. If you're looking for a refreshing and fruity cocktail, the Rum and Cranberry Juice Cocktail is definitely worth a try. Don't miss out on this delicious drink!
2. Sparkling Cranberry Cocktail
The Sparkling Cranberry Cocktail is a perfect drink for the holiday season. This cocktail is a combination of cranberry vodka, a hint of orange, a little fizz, with a touch of sweet and tart. The cranberry orange simple syrup used in this cocktail can be made ahead of time, making it an easy drink to serve at your holiday party.
This cocktail can also be customized by substituting club soda with Prosecco or Champagne for a sweeter taste. The Sparkling Cranberry Cocktail is a must-try drink for anyone who loves a refreshing and festive cocktail during the holiday season.
3. Cranberry Vodka Cocktail
The Cranberry Vodka Cocktail is a classic combination of tangy cranberry juice and smooth vodka, with a twist of fizz added for a fun and festive touch. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a fancy party.
The addition of fresh cranberries and a slice of lime make it a visually appealing drink as well. Whether you make a single serving or a whole pitcher, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. So why not give it a try and add some sparkle to your next gathering?
4. Warm Spiced Cranberry Cocktail
The Warm Spiced Cranberry Cocktail is a perfect drink to get you in the festive mood. It's a warm and spiced drink that will warm you through to your toes.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be enjoyed with or without alcohol. The best part is that you can adapt the alcohol part to taste. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves cranberry cocktails.
5. Vodka Citrus and Cranberry Cocktail
The Vodka Citrus and Cranberry Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for fall and winter. It's a hybrid between a lemon drop and a cape cod, with the addition of cranberry juice to add complexity. The cocktail is garnished with sugared cranberries, which add a pop of sweet and tart when you bite into them.
This festive drink can also be made into a non-alcoholic version by omitting the liquor and adding soda water instead. If you're looking for a delicious and easy cranberry cocktail recipe, the Vodka Citrus and Cranberry Cocktail is definitely one to try.
6. Vodka Cranberry
Vodka Cranberry is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. This sweet and tart drink is perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a refreshing summer beverage or a festive holiday cocktail. Made with vodka, cranberry juice, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, this simple yet delicious drink is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
The combination of the smooth vodka and tangy cranberry juice creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of mixology, Vodka Cranberry is a must-try drink that is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself?
7. Cranberry Orange Juice Cocktail
The Cranberry Orange Juice Cocktail is a refreshing and fizzy drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail can be enjoyed with or without alcohol, making it a versatile drink for everyone. It is a mixture of tart cranberry juice, orange juice, 7UP, and vodka, which creates a perfect balance of flavors.
The addition of cranberries makes it an ideal holiday drink, while the refreshing taste makes it perfect for summer. This cocktail can be served individually or as a party punch, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. If you're looking for a drink that is both versatile and delicious, the Cranberry Orange Juice Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Cranberry Whiskey Sour
The Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a delicious twist on a classic cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with whiskey, cranberry juice, lemon, and sugar, this cocktail is both festive and easy to make.
The warm, rounded flavor of the whiskey pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberry juice, creating a perfectly balanced drink that is both sweet and sour. Whether you're serving one or a crowd, the Cranberry Whiskey Sour is sure to be a hit. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
9. Cranberry Martini
The Cranberry Martini, also known as the Crantini, is a refreshing and balanced cocktail that can be enjoyed year-round. Made with vodka, orange liqueur, and real cranberry juice, this cocktail has a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors.
It's quick and easy to make, and can be garnished with sugared cranberries and an orange slice to make it extra special. The Cranberry Martini is a great choice for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and elegant cocktail. Try it out and see why it's one of the best cranberry cocktail recipes out there!
10. Cranberry Mojito
The Cranberry Mojito is a festive and refreshing cocktail that's perfect for the holiday season. Made with rum, cranberry juice, fresh mint, and lemon-lime soda, this cocktail is sweet, tart, and beautifully colored with red and green accents. It's a great addition to any holiday party or get-together, and the flavors are sure to impress your guests.
The combination of cranberry and mint is a match made in heaven, and the addition of rum gives the cocktail a nice kick. Overall, the Cranberry Mojito is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves cranberries or is looking for a fun and festive drink to serve during the holidays.
11. Fresh Cranberry Vodka Spritzers With Rosemary
Looking for a festive and refreshing cranberry cocktail for the holidays? Look no further than the Fresh Cranberry Vodka Spritzer with Rosemary. This cocktail is made with homemade cranberry juice, freshly infused cranberry vodka, and a homemade rosemary simple syrup.
The combination of tart cranberries and fragrant rosemary creates a delicious and unique flavor profile that is perfect for the holiday season. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a gift idea, this cocktail is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and add a little sparkle to your holiday celebrations?
12. Festive Rum & Cranberry Cocktail
Looking for a festive and flavorful cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than the Festive Rum & Cranberry Cocktail. This delicious drink is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a hint of rum to give it an extra kick.
It's easy to make and looks stunning, thanks to the frozen cranberry ice cubes that give it a pop of color. Whether you're looking for a drink to serve to your guests or just want to enjoy a tasty beverage on your own, the Festive Rum & Cranberry Cocktail is sure to hit the spot. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
13. Tequila Cranberry Cocktail
The Tequila Cranberry Cocktail is a refreshing and festive drink that's perfect for holiday parties or any time of the year. Made with blanco tequila, sweetened cranberry juice, a splash of lime juice, and garnished with fresh cranberries and lime wedges, this cocktail is easy to make and even easier to sip on.
The tequila adds a smooth kick to the sweet and tart cranberry juice, making it a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of the lime juice and garnishes give it a bright and festive look, making it a great cocktail to serve at any gathering. Whether you're a tequila lover or just looking for a fun and easy cocktail to serve at your next party, the Tequila Cranberry Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
14. Cranberry Gin Cocktail
The Cranberry Gin Cocktail is a delicious and festive drink that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the smoothness of gin and a splash of triple sec. Topped with a hint of sweetness and fizz from ginger ale, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests.
The orange slice and lime garnish add a refreshing twist to the classic Vodka Cranberry with Lime. The best part about this cocktail is that it is super easy to make, with no shaker or muddling required. If you are looking for an unconventional yet delicious cocktail to mix up your holiday drinks, the Cranberry Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
15. Bourbon Cranberry Cocktail
The Bourbon Cranberry Cocktail is a unique twist on the classic bourbon cocktail. It combines the sweetness of bourbon with the tartness of unsweetened cranberry juice and the spiciness of ginger beer. The result is a refreshing and satisfying drink that is perfect for bourbon lovers.
The addition of cranberry juice adds a tangy and refreshing element to the drink, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon or is looking for a fun and unique cocktail to serve at their next party.
16. Cranberry Vodka
Cranberry Vodka is a sweet and refreshing cocktail with a hint of citrus. It's perfect for fall and winter holidays and has a bright red color that adds a festive touch to any party. The cocktail can be mixed up by the glass or in a pitcher for larger parties.
The cranberry simple syrup adds a sweeter and more festive touch to the cocktail. If you're looking for an easy and delicious cocktail to serve at your next holiday gathering, give the Cranberry Vodka a try.
17. Cranberry Mule Cocktail
The Cranberry Mule Cocktail is a refreshing and festive drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with vodka, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and Sprite® Cranberry, this cocktail has a sweet and tart flavor that is sure to please. The addition of sugared cranberries and lime slices as garnishes make it a visually appealing drink as well.
Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a delicious drink to enjoy on a cozy night in, the Cranberry Mule Cocktail is a must-try. So, grab some Sprite® Cranberry from your local Kroger and get ready to enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make cocktail!
18. Perfect Cranberry Cosmopolitan
The Perfect Cranberry Cosmopolitan is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with raspberry vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and orange liqueur, this fruity and refreshing drink has a sweet and tangy flavor that is sure to please.
Whether you're looking for a cocktail to serve at a girls' night in or just want to enjoy a delicious drink on your own, the Perfect Cranberry Cosmopolitan is definitely worth trying. So why not give it a try and see for yourself just how delicious this cocktail can be?
19. Cranberry Lime Vodka Tonic
The Cranberry Lime Vodka Tonic is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a twist on the classic vodka tonic, using cranberry infused vodka and fresh lime juice to create a unique and flavorful drink. The cranberry flavor adds a subtle sweetness to the cocktail, while the lime juice adds a refreshing tanginess.
This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day, or for enjoying with friends at a party. The addition of fresh or frozen cranberries makes for a fun and festive garnish. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Cranberry Lime Vodka Tonic is definitely worth a shot!
20. Vodka Cranberry Cocktail
The Vodka Cranberry Cocktail is a refreshing drink that combines vodka, cranberry juice, Rose's sweetened lime, and orange juice. It's not very strong and the alcohol is not overpowering, making it perfect for those who prefer a lighter drink.
This cocktail is great for brunch or a hot summer day, as it's refreshing and hydrating. If you're a fan of cranberry cocktails, this is definitely one to try.
21. Lychee Cranberry Gin Cocktail
The Lychee Cranberry Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and fruity drink that is perfect for any occasion. With only four ingredients, it is easy to make and perfect for those who want a quick and easy cocktail.
The addition of canned lychee juice gives it a unique flavor that is both sweet and tangy. Its unique flavor and simplicity make it a standout among other cranberry cocktail recipes.
22. Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect winter drink that combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the sweetness of orange juice and the vanilla notes of bourbon. This easy-to-make cocktail requires only four ingredients and is perfect for bourbon lovers.
The addition of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to the drink, making it a perfect balance of flavors. The cocktail is garnished with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary, which adds a lovely pine smell to the drink. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon and whiskey.
23. Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. The tartness of the cranberries is balanced out by the sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile. The addition of bourbon gives the cocktail a warm, cozy feel that's perfect for sipping on a cold winter night.
The garnish of fresh rosemary and cranberries adds a festive touch to the drink. Even if you're not a fan of bourbon, this cocktail is definitely worth trying. It's a great way to switch up your usual cranberry cocktail and impress your guests with something new and delicious.
24. Perfect Cranberry Margarita
The Perfect Cranberry Margarita is a stunning variation of the classic margarita that is sure to impress. This bright red cocktail is made with unsweetened cranberry juice and a touch of simple syrup to balance out the tartness.
The flavor is crisp and refreshing with all the character of the original margarita. It is perfect for any occasion that calls for a red cocktail, like Christmas or Valentine's Day. This cocktail is a showstopper and is sure to be a hit with your guests.
25. Cranberry Tequila Spritzer
The Cranberry Tequila Spritzer is a refreshing and festive cocktail that is perfect for any holiday occasion. Its smooth and sweet taste is complemented by a slightly tart flavor from the cranberry. This tequila-based drink pairs well with holiday dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
The cocktail's luxurious color is showcased in a short tumbler-style glass, with garnishes like mint sprigs and fresh cranberries adding extra dimension. It's a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a unique and refreshing drink this holiday season.
26. Cranberry Calvados Cocktail
The Cranberry Calvados Cocktail is a warm and cozy drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with whole cranberries, lemon slices, apple slices, and cinnamon sticks, this cocktail is infused with the flavors of the season. The addition of Calvados, an apple brandy from Normandy, gives the drink a smooth and floral taste that is not overpowering.
The key to this cocktail is letting it chill for 24 hours, which allows the flavors to meld together and mellows the alcohol. When served warm in a slow cooker or on the stove, it is the perfect drink to sip on a cold winter night. The Cranberry Calvados Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a festive and delicious cocktail to serve during the holidays.
27. Sparkling Cranberry Prosecco Cocktail
The Sparkling Cranberry Prosecco Cocktail is a refreshing and festive drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with just three simple ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests.
The combination of ice-cold prosecco, Grand Marnier, and cranberry juice creates a crisp and delicious flavor that is both sweet and tart. This cocktail is perfect for a crowd or just for a few and is a great way to add some sparkle to your holiday celebrations. So why not try this delicious cocktail and add some extra cheer to your holiday season?
28. Cranberry Ginger Fizz Cocktail
The Cranberry Ginger Fizz Cocktail is a delightful holiday drink that is perfect for entertaining guests. This cocktail is made with a homemade cranberry cinnamon syrup that is mixed with ginger ale to create a refreshing and flavorful drink. What's great about this cocktail is that the syrup can be made ahead of time, making it easy to prepare when guests arrive.
The ingredients used in this cocktail are simple and easy to find, making it a great option for those who want to create a festive drink without having to purchase a lot of specialty ingredients. Overall, the Cranberry Ginger Fizz Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who wants to add a little holiday cheer to their next gathering.
29. Christmas Cranberry Cocktail
The Christmas Cranberry Cocktail is a perfect drink for your next holiday party. Made with cranberry juice, orange liqueur, vodka, and a homemade cinnamon syrup, this cocktail is a delicious blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The sugared rim and sprig of rosemary add a festive touch to the drink, making it a perfect addition to your Christmas party.
This cocktail can be made in large batches to serve a crowd or in smaller portions for a cozy night in. Whether you're a fan of cranberry cocktails or looking for a new holiday drink, the Christmas Cranberry Cocktail is sure to impress.
30. Cranberry Mocktail
The Cranberry Mocktail is a refreshing and fizzy non-alcoholic cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with a sweet and tart cranberry rosemary syrup, this vegan and gluten-free drink is a delicious addition to any dinner party or get-together.
The cocktail can also be easily modified to be sugar-free or keto-friendly by substituting the coconut sugar with a low-carb sweetener. The addition of hard alcohol can also be made for those who prefer a boozy drink. Overall, the Cranberry Mocktail is a beautiful and tasty cocktail that is sure to impress guests and add a festive touch to any occasion.
31. Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect blend of tart cranberry juice, warm bourbon, and maple-cranberry simple syrup. It's a cozy and comforting drink that's perfect for fall evenings. The amber-hued maple syrup adds a depth of flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
This cocktail is easy to make, and the maple-cranberry simple syrup can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for hosting parties. The frozen cranberries used in the cocktail also help keep it cold and add a beautiful garnish. Overall, the Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make fall cocktail.
32. Cranberry Tequila Old Fashioned
The Cranberry Tequila Old Fashioned is a holiday twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail. This easy tequila cocktail combines simple syrup, cranberry juice, tequila, and bitters, shaken with ice and garnished with a twist of orange peel. The addition of cranberry juice and tequila in place of whiskey adds a unique and delicious flavor to the traditional old fashioned.
This cocktail is perfect for tequila enthusiasts looking for a simple holiday drink. The Codigo 1530 Rosa Tequila used in this recipe adds a hint of sweetness and floral notes, making it perfect for sipping. Overall, the Cranberry Tequila Old Fashioned is a must-try cocktail for any holiday party or get-together.
33. Cranberry Gin and Tonic
The Cranberry Gin and Tonic is a festive and refreshing cocktail perfect for the holiday season. Made with gin, fresh cranberries, and 100% pure cranberry juice, this cocktail is tart, sweet, and earthy all at once.
The addition of fresh thyme and citrus garnishes make it a beautiful and flavorful drink. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or just looking for a special cocktail to enjoy at home, the Cranberry Gin and Tonic is a must-try.
