Whiskey and cranberry are two ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The bold, smoky flavor of whiskey combined with the tart, sweet taste of cranberry creates a drink that is both refreshing and complex.
As a bartender, I've had the pleasure of experimenting with many whiskey and cranberry cocktail recipes, and I can confidently say that this is a pairing that never disappoints.
One of the reasons why whiskey and cranberry work so well together is because they both have a strong character. Whiskey is a drink that demands attention, with its rich aroma and deep flavor.
Cranberry, on the other hand, is a fruit that is known for its sharpness and acidity. When you combine these two ingredients, you get a drink that is bold and flavorful, with a unique balance of sweetness and tartness.
But what makes a great whiskey and cranberry cocktail? In my experience, it's all about finding the right balance between the two ingredients.
A good whiskey and cranberry cocktail should have just enough whiskey to give it depth and character, without overpowering the cranberry flavor. Likewise, the cranberry should be tart enough to cut through the richness of the whiskey, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming.
In this blog post, I'm going to share with you some of the best whiskey and cranberry cocktail recipes that I've come across over the years.
From classic drinks to modern twists, these cocktails are sure to impress even the most discerning whiskey connoisseur. So sit back, pour yourself a drink, and let's explore the wonderful world of whiskey and cranberry cocktails together.
1. Cranberry Orange Whiskey Cocktail
The Cranberry Orange Whiskey Cocktail is a perfect addition to your holiday menu. This cocktail is a delightful blend of tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and warming whiskey. The addition of fresh thyme leaves gives it a savory and herbal note that balances out the sweetness of the fruit juices.
This cocktail is easy to make and perfect for a holiday party or gathering. It can also be made ahead of time in a pitcher and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you're not a fan of whiskey, you can always substitute it with vodka. Give this festive cocktail a try and impress your guests with your bartending skills!
2. Cranberry Whiskey Sour
The Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a perfect blend of whiskey, cranberry juice, lemon and sugar, creating a slightly sour and festive cocktail. This twist on a classic cocktail is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
The warm and rounded flavor of the whiskey complements the tartness of the cranberry juice, creating a balanced and delicious cocktail. Whether you prefer it straight up or on the rocks, this cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, if you're looking for a fun and easy cocktail to impress your guests, give the Cranberry Whiskey Sour a try.
3. Christmas Cranberry Whiskey Cocktail
The Christmas Cranberry Whiskey Cocktail is a festive and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. It's a blend of tart and sweet flavors, with the added bonus of sugared cranberries for a little extra treat. The recipe can be adjusted to make a pitcher size for a holiday party, making it a great addition to any holiday cocktail menu.
The cocktail is versatile and can be made as a punch, with sparkling soda or with garnishes like sliced oranges. The best part is that you don't need expensive whiskey to make this cocktail, just your favorite affordable brand. If you're a fan of whiskey and cranberry cocktails, this recipe is definitely worth a try.
4. Crown Vanilla Whiskey Cocktail With Cranberry
The Crown Vanilla Whiskey Cocktail with Cranberry is a perfect drink for fall with its sweet and smooth taste. This cocktail combines Crown Vanilla, Disaronno, and cranberry juice to create a delicious and boozy drink. The addition of Crown Vanilla Whiskey and Disaronno gives this cocktail a unique and special taste that sets it apart from other whiskey and cranberry cocktails.
It's an easy and quick cocktail to mix up, making it perfect for enjoying with friends and family while sitting around a bonfire or playing lawn games. This cocktail is definitely worth trying for anyone looking for a sweet and smooth whiskey cocktail for fall.
5. Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a fruity and complex whiskey cocktail. This cocktail is perfectly balanced with sweet and tart notes from cranberry and orange, and a hint of sweetness from the vermouth. The use of unsweetened cranberry juice adds a depth of flavor that is hard to find in other cranberry cocktails.
It's perfect for fall or winter entertaining, but it works for any season and occasion. This cocktail is a simple shake and strain cocktail, making it easy to prepare for a crowd. If you're a fan of bourbon and looking for a new way to enjoy it, this cocktail is a great place to start.
6. Cranberry Manhattan
The Cranberry Manhattan is a festive and flavorful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. Made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, cranberry juice, and cranberry sauce, this cocktail is perfect for the holiday season. The addition of orange bitters adds a touch of complexity and balances out the sweetness of the cranberry.
Garnished with fresh cranberries and an orange peel, this cocktail is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy night in, the Cranberry Manhattan is sure to impress.
7. Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect way to use up leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving. This cocktail only requires three ingredients: homemade cranberry sauce, bourbon, and ginger beer. The homemade cranberry sauce gives the cocktail a fresh and tangy flavor, while the bourbon adds a warm and spicy kick.
The ginger beer gives the cocktail a perfect level of sweetness and fizz. If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, you can add a little pure maple syrup. This cocktail is perfect for entertaining guests during the holidays or any time you have leftover cranberry sauce. If you're looking for a festive and delicious cocktail, the Cranberry Sauce Bourbon Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Cranberry Old Fashioned
The Cranberry Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a holiday twist. Made with American Honey Whiskey, cranberry juice, and Angostura bitters, this cocktail is perfect for entertaining during the holiday season.
The sweetness of the honey whiskey is balanced by the tartness of the cranberry juice, and the bitters add depth and complexity to the drink. It's a simple and easy cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're a whiskey lover or just looking for a festive drink, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is a must-try.
9. Cranberry Gin Cocktail
If you're looking to switch things up from the classic Whiskey and Cranberry Cocktail, the Cranberry Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try. This festive drink combines the tartness of cranberry juice with the botanical flavors of gin and a splash of orange-flavored triple sec.
Topped with a hint of ginger ale, this fizzy drink is garnished with fresh cranberries and a slice of orange. The recipe also allows for experimentation with different fruit juices to find your perfect mix. Overall, the Cranberry Gin Cocktail offers a unique and refreshing twist to the traditional cranberry cocktail.
10. Jingle Bell Smash
Looking for a festive and fun cocktail to serve during the holidays? Look no further than the Jingle Bell Smash! This whiskey and cranberry cocktail is a winter twist on the classic whiskey smash, featuring a rosemary simple syrup and cranberry juice.
While bourbon is the recommended spirit for this cocktail, it can easily be swapped out for your favorite liquor. The rosemary simple syrup adds a delicious sweetness and flavor to the drink, making it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. So why not try something new this season and mix up a batch of Jingle Bell Smashes for your next party?
11. Jack Daniel's Honey Cranberry Tea
The Jack Daniel's Honey Cranberry Tea cocktail is a perfect mix of sweet tea, cranberry juice, Honey Jack, and a cinnamon stick. The unique flavor of Honey Jack adds a touch of sweetness, while the cranberry juice gives it a refreshing taste.
It's easy to make and can be enjoyed straight or over ice. It's a must-try for whiskey lovers looking for a delicious and refreshing drink.
12. Cranberry Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Cranberry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a must-try for whiskey lovers who are looking for a festive twist on a classic cocktail. With a ruby-colored cranberry simple syrup, this cocktail is perfect for the holiday season. It's a sweet-tart concoction that is easy to make and can be enjoyed on any occasion.
The combination of bourbon, bitters, and cranberry syrup creates a unique flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying. Garnished with orange peel and a sprig of rosemary, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a new whiskey and cranberry cocktail to try, the Cranberry Old Fashioned is definitely worth a shot.
13. Cranberry Whiskey Ginger Cocktail
The Cranberry Whiskey Ginger Cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet and tart flavors that will leave you wanting more. Made with your choice of whiskey or whisky, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a smooth and woody taste profile.
The cranberry juice adds a sweet and tart fruity note, while the soda gives it a lightly spicy flavor. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail, the Cranberry Whiskey Ginger Cocktail is a must-try.
14. Peanut Butter and Jelly Drink
The Peanut Butter and Jelly Drink is a fun and quirky cocktail that combines Skrewball peanut butter whiskey with tart cranberry juice. It's a unique way to mix up the classic childhood favorite into a deliciously nutty and sweet tart drink.
The use of 100% unsweetened cranberry juice ensures that the drink is not overly sweet, while Skrewball whiskey adds a distinct peanut butter taste. It's a must-try for whiskey lovers looking for something different and creative.
15. Cranberry Vanilla Old Fashioned
The Cranberry Vanilla Old Fashioned is a perfect holiday cocktail that will surely impress your guests. This classic bourbon-based cocktail is made with a combination of bourbon whiskey, simple syrup, bitters, and a twist of cranberry and vanilla flavors. The drink is not only delicious but also has a beautiful presentation with a deep red color and a garnish of cranberries and rosemary.
The cocktail is perfect for sipping slowly and enjoying the warmth of the bourbon with the sweet and tart flavors of cranberry and vanilla. The Cranberry Vanilla Old Fashioned is a must-try for anyone who loves a good bourbon cocktail with a festive twist.
16. Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch
The Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch is a festive twist on a classic cocktail that's perfect for holiday entertaining. The homemade cranberry-orange syrup adds a touch of sweetness and warmth to the bourbon, while the fresh citrus and candied rosemary provide a beautiful garnish.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be served as a single drink or as a punch for a crowd. The bright-red color of the cranberries makes it a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering. If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that's sure to impress your guests, the Cranberry Bourbon Sour Punch is definitely worth trying.
17. Festive Whiskey Tonic Cocktail
Looking for a festive cocktail to celebrate the holiday season? Look no further than the Festive Whiskey Tonic Cocktail! This delicious cocktail combines the rich flavors of whiskey and amaretto with the tartness of cranberry and orange juice, all topped off with a sprig of thyme and Fitch & Leedes Indian Tonic.
Not only is it a beautiful drink to serve at your fall and winter feasts, but it's also perfect for large groups as it can easily be made in a big batch. If you're looking to impress your guests with a delicious and unique cocktail, the Festive Whiskey Tonic is definitely worth a try!
18. Rosemary Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Rosemary Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect blend of seasonal flavors that will warm you up on a cold winter night. The cocktail features a brown sugar and cranberry simple syrup, cranberry juice, and a smooth and sweet bourbon like Four Roses or Maker's Mark.
The vibrant ruby red color of the cocktail is eye-catching and the addition of rosemary garnish adds a festive touch. This cocktail is a must-try for bourbon lovers who want to add a touch of holiday spirit to their drink. Check out the full article for more Whiskey and Cranberry Cocktail recipes to try!
19. Holiday Whiskey Fizz
If you're looking for a festive and refreshing cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the "Holiday Whiskey Fizz" is a must-try. Made with Sagamore Spirits rye whiskey, cranberry syrup, lime juice, and club soda, this cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The fragrant rosemary and fresh cranberries garnish add a festive touch to the drink.
What sets Sagamore Spirit apart is their use of locally sourced ingredients and naturally filtered spring water, making their rye whiskey a favorite among locals. Even if you're not typically a whiskey drinker, the balanced and not-too-sweet taste of this cocktail might just change your mind. Serve it up at your next holiday gathering and watch as your guests sip and savor this delicious drink.
20. Christmas Sangria
Looking for a festive cocktail to serve at your holiday party? Look no further than Christmas Sangria! This delicious cocktail combines the bold flavors of Merlot and cranberry juice with mellow whiskey and warm spices like cinnamon. The result is a cozy and comforting cocktail that tastes like Christmas in a glass.
The fruit base of apples, oranges, and cranberries adds a festive touch, while the homemade cinnamon simple syrup adds a bold, spicy flavor. Serve this delicious holiday sangria with various dips or dishes for a holiday party or Christmas movie night. Trust us, your guests will be asking for the recipe!
21. Washington Apple
The Washington Apple is a delicious and refreshing cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This cocktail is a combination of Crown Royal Canadian Whisky, Sour Apple Schnapps, and Cranberry Juice, which creates a tart and tangy flavor that is sure to impress.
The cocktail can be adapted to be served in a punch bowl or in a shot glass depending on the occasion. You can also add a bit of bubbles to this cocktail by adding in a splash of club soda or Sprite. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a good whiskey and cranberry cocktail and is a must-try for anyone who enjoys a delicious and refreshing drink.
22. Orange Whiskey Sour
The Orange Whiskey Sour is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic Whiskey Sour cocktail. Made with fresh orange juice and pure cranberry juice, this cocktail has a bright orange color and a sweet-tart flavor that is perfectly balanced with the bourbon. The use of a natural sweetener, such as Swoon, adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the juices.
This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting, while still enjoying the classic taste of a whiskey cocktail. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail that is sure to impress, the Orange Whiskey Sour is definitely worth a try.
