This Cranberry Rosemary Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing drink that combines tart cranberry juice with fragrant rosemary and a splash of vodka. It’s bright, colorful, and perfect for any celebration!
I love how the rosemary adds a unique twist. It’s like giving your cocktail a fancy upgrade without much effort. Just shake it up, pour, and enjoy—it’s that simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A smooth vodka is the base of this cocktail. I suggest using a good quality vodka, but any plain or flavored vodka you enjoy will work. You could also swap vodka for gin for an interesting herbal twist.
Cranberry Juice: Fresh or unsweetened cranberry juice is best to avoid excessive sweetness. If you want to lighten it up or experiment, some people use cranberry cocktail juice or even pomegranate juice for a different twist.
Soda Water: This adds a refreshing fizz. You can replace it with tonic water for extra flavor or even club soda if you want a less sweet alternative.
Simple Syrup: You can control the sweetness level by adjusting the syrup. If you want a natural option, use honey or agave syrup instead. You could also skip it altogether if you prefer a tart cocktail.
Fresh Rosemary: Rosemary brings a unique flavor. If you can’t find fresh rosemary, use dried rosemary sparingly. Just remember to adjust since it’s more potent dry. Thyme is a great substitution if you want something different.
How Do I Muddle Herbs for Maximum Flavor?
Muddling herbs like rosemary helps release their essential oils, enhancing your drink’s flavor. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon—don’t crush the herbs, just gently press them.
- Make sure to do this in the shaker before adding other ingredients, as it allows the herb to fully infuse flavor.
- A small sprig, about 3-4 inches, is just right; too much can overwhelm the drink.
Take your time with this step, as muddling correctly can really elevate your cocktail. Enjoy your drink!
Cranberry Rosemary Vodka Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 3 oz cranberry juice (preferably fresh or unsweetened)
- 1 oz soda water or sparkling water
- ½ oz simple syrup (adjust based on desired sweetness)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for muddling and garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Crushed ice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy drink that adds a festive touch to any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Rosemary:
Start by adding 1 small sprig of fresh rosemary and the simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Gently muddle them together using a muddler or the back of a spoon. You’re looking to release the essential oils from the rosemary without completely shredding it.
2. Add the Liquids:
Next, pour in the vodka and cranberry juice into the shaker. This combination is where the flavors start coming together beautifully!
3. Shake It Up:
Fill the shaker with ice to chill your drink. Secure the lid and shake well for about 15-20 seconds. You want your mixture to be nice and cold.
4. Prepare the Glass:
Take a rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice—this will keep your cocktail nice and refreshing as you sip.
5. Strain and Pour:
Using a strainer, pour the cocktail mixture over the crushed ice in your glass, letting all those wonderful flavors flow through.
6. Add Some Fizz:
Top off your cocktail with soda water or sparkling water, giving it a nice fizzy finish that enhances the overall taste.
7. Garnish:
For that final touch, garnish your drink with a fresh rosemary sprig. You can also skewer 3 fresh cranberries on a cocktail pick and place it on top for extra flair.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cranberry Rosemary Vodka Cocktail is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately and let the refreshing flavors brighten your day.
This cocktail combines the tartness of cranberry with the aromatic quality of rosemary and crisp vodka. It’s the perfect drink for festive occasions or cozy evenings at home.
Can I Use a Different Type of Juice?
Absolutely! While cranberry juice is traditional, feel free to experiment with other juices like pomegranate or even orange juice for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and tartness will vary.
How Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
You can easily create a refreshing mocktail version by replacing the vodka with more soda water or sparkling water. Some people also enjoy using a splash of tonic water for added flavor—even adding a bit more cranberry juice to balance the flavors!
Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
It’s best to mix the cocktail fresh since the soda water will lose its fizz over time. However, you can pre-mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and simple syrup in advance. When you’re ready to serve, just add ice and top with soda water.
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
Store any leftover cranberry juice and simple syrup in the refrigerator in airtight containers. Fresh rosemary can be kept in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel or in a glass of water like a bouquet to prolong freshness.
