Save
This cranberry Christmas cocktail brings a beautiful balance of tart cranberry and vibrant blood-orange to your holiday table with just the right kick of vodka. I love serving it when friends drop by for a festive toast because it always looks as impressive as it tastes.
The first time I made this cocktail, everyone asked for the recipe before the night ended. Now it is my signature holiday drink and there are never leftovers.
Ingredients
- Cranberry juice cocktail: gives the drink its signature sweet tart flavor Look for one that is deep red and not overly sugary
- Blood orange juice: brings an unexpected citrus note and stunning color Choose a firm heavy orange with tight skin
- Vodka: smooths out the edges Use a mid range vodka for best results
- Simple syrup: adds a balanced sweetness Make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water
- Ice: chills and dilutes the drink to the perfect sipping strength
- Optional garnishes: like fresh rosemary blood orange slices cinnamon stick and fresh cranberries add extra holiday charm Try to pick the freshest garnishes possible for best presentation
- Superfine sugar for rimming: makes every sip sparkle Look for very fine granules so it sticks well
Instructions
- Prepare the Shaker:
- Add three quarters cup ice to your cocktail shaker This creates instant chilling and some dilution for the perfect texture
- Add the Main Ingredients:
- Pour in cranberry juice cocktail fresh blood orange juice vodka and simple syrup These are the flavors that define your cocktail so measure with care
- Shake Until Chilled:
- Place the lid tightly on your shaker and shake for twenty to thirty seconds You want the outside of the shaker to feel frosty cold
- Prepare Glasses:
- If you want to rim the glass dip the edge in simple syrup then roll in superfine sugar Do this before you add ice or pour the cocktail
- Strain and Serve:
- Fill your serving glass with about half a cup ice Remove the cap of the shaker and strain the drink into your prepared glass
- Garnish with Holiday Flair:
- Top with a slice of blood orange a sprig of rosemary a cinnamon stick and several fresh cranberries This is when the drink looks most festive so be generous with the garnishes
I am always excited when I spot the first blood oranges in the market It reminds me of the first time my family all wore matching pajamas while sipping this cocktail by the tree The scent of the rosemary and cinnamon brings back that memory every year
Storage Tips
Make a larger batch and keep it covered in the fridge for up to one day without ice Add ice only when ready to serve so your drink stays vibrant and undiluted. If you have leftover garnishes save them in a small airtight container and refresh just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If blood oranges are unavailable regular navel oranges will work though the color will be less dramatic. For a non alcoholic version replace vodka with sparkling water and use a bit more simple syrup to taste The drink will still feel festive and flavorful
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with appetizers like brie cheese mild salami or spiced nuts. Set up a garnish bar so guests can dress their drinks with what they like best
Cultural and Historical Context
Cranberries are a true American fruit and have been showing up at festive tables for centuries Blood oranges are a winter treat in Southern Europe and their arrival in markets signals holiday time in many cultures Combining these flavors in a cocktail brings a little global celebration to your glass
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap out the blood orange for pomegranate juice for a slightly different wintery twist Infuse your simple syrup with rosemary for a more aromatic experience Add a splash of sparkling wine to the finished drink for a bubbly celebration
Success Stories
My friends always look forward to my holiday cocktail party just to snag one of these drinks Last year a neighbor told me she now brings a pitcher of this to every family gathering and it is gone before dinner even starts
Freezer Meal Conversion
While this drink is best fresh you can freeze leftover juice mixtures in ice cube trays and use them as flavored ice for your next round of cocktails The flavor will stay true and you will have instant chill power
Mix up this cranberry Christmas cocktail for your next winter get together and watch it disappear Cheers to festive celebrations
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use regular orange juice instead of blood orange?
Yes, regular orange juice can be substituted, though blood orange offers a slightly deeper color and unique flavor.
- → What’s the best way to rim the glass?
Dip the rim in simple syrup, then coat with superfine sugar for a sweet, festive touch.
- → Can this drink be made ahead for a party?
Absolutely. Mix all liquids in a pitcher and chill for up to 24 hours. Add ice and garnishes just before serving.
- → Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Omit the vodka and use sparkling water or lemon-lime soda to create a refreshing, alcohol-free mocktail.
- → What other garnishes pair well?
Fresh mint, pomegranate seeds, or even a twist of lemon provide additional festive color and flavor.