Name: Cranberry Christmas Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cranberry juice; 1 cup ginger ale; 1 cup vodka; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; Fresh cranberries, for garnish; Rosemary sprigs, for garnish; Ice cubes

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Christmas Cocktail Recipe

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas gathering or simply want a cheerful holiday drink to enjoy by the fire, this cocktail delivers bright color and bold flavor with minimal effort. It uses simple, accessible ingredients and requires only a few minutes to prepare, making it a go-to festive drink for both beginners and seasoned home bartenders.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 ounces cranberry juice cocktail
2 ounces blood‑orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1 ½ ounces vodka
½ ounce simple syrup
Ice

Optional Garnishes:
Simple syrup for rimming glass
Super fine granulated sugar for rimming glass
Thin blood‑orange slices
Fresh rosemary sprig
Cinnamon stick (food grade)
Fresh cranberries

Directions

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice (about ¾ cup).
Add the cranberry juice cocktail, blood‑orange juice, vodka, and simple syrup to the shaker.
Secure the lid and shake for 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
Add fresh ice (about ½ cup) to a 10‑ounce low‑ball cocktail glass.
Remove the shaker lid and strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
Garnish with your choice of blood‑orange slices, rosemary, cinnamon stick, and fresh cranberries.
If desired, rim the glass with simple syrup and sugar before adding ice and pouring the cocktail.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 cocktail
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

Mocktail Version: Omit the vodka and use extra cranberry juice or citrus sparkling water.
Use Regular Orange Juice: If blood oranges aren’t available, standard orange juice works well.
Swap the Spirit: Try gin for a botanical twist or light rum for a slightly sweeter profile.
Make It Sparkling: Top with club soda or prosecco for a fizzy finish.
Batch for a Crowd: Multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher—just wait to add ice until serving.

Storage/Reheating

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. To prepare ahead, combine the cranberry juice, blood‑orange juice, vodka, and simple syrup in a pitcher and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Do not add ice until you’re ready to serve to avoid dilution. Stir before serving and add garnishes individually.

FAQs

How can I make this cranberry cocktail non‑alcoholic?

Replace the vodka with extra cranberry juice or citrus sparkling water. Adjust the amount of simple syrup to taste.

What is the best type of cranberry juice to use?

Cranberry juice cocktail is sweeter and more balanced. For a more tart drink, use 100% cranberry juice and adjust the sweetener.

Can I use regular orange juice instead of blood‑orange juice?

Yes, regular orange juice is a great substitute and still adds a bright citrus note.

Can this recipe be scaled for a party?

Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher. Chill before serving and pour over ice in individual glasses.

How do I rim the glass with sugar?

Dip the rim in simple syrup, then press it into granulated sugar until coated. Let dry briefly before pouring the cocktail.

Can I garnish with frozen cranberries?

Yes, but note that frozen cranberries will soften as they thaw. Fresh ones maintain a firmer texture for presentation.

How do I keep the cocktail from getting watered down?

Only add ice to individual glasses rather than to the pitcher. Serve immediately after shaking.

What other spirits can I use instead of vodka?

You can try gin, light rum, or even tequila for a different flavor twist.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the drink?

Yes, simply taste the cocktail before serving and add more or less simple syrup based on your preference.

How far in advance can I prepare this drink?

You can mix the cocktail (without ice) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Stir before serving and add garnishes fresh.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Christmas Cocktail is the perfect festive drink to brighten your holiday celebrations. With its bold color, refreshing citrus-cranberry flavor, and elegant garnishes, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite for your gatherings or quiet winter nights.