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This sparkling cranberry Christmas cocktail brings a festive burst of color and bright citrus to any holiday gathering. Its balance of tart cranberry juicy blood orange and the subtle kick of vodka creates a sophisticated yet crowd-pleasing drink that looks as good as it tastes. I love serving it at our annual friends-mas party and it always disappears fast.
When I first tried this combination during a snowy December evening it instantly felt like Christmas in a glass. Now I make it every season and my guests always ask for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Cranberry juice cocktail: brings tangy color and festive flavor choose one with real fruit juice for best results
- Blood orange juice: adds zesty sweet depth use a fresh blood orange for maximum aroma and brightness
- Vodka: delivers a clean crisp backbone pick a mid-range vodka for smooth sipping
- Simple syrup: balances tartness with a touch of sweetness homemade syrup always tastes fresher
- Ice: chills the drink down fast fresh clear ice makes it look extra special
- Optional garnishes: elevate the presentation and aroma use superfine sugar and syrup for rimming then add orange slices cranberries rosemary and a cinnamon stick if you want that cozy winter fragrance
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chill and Mix:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with about three quarters of a cup of ice. Pour in cranberry juice cocktail fresh blood orange juice vodka and simple syrup. Place the lid on tightly and shake hard for twenty to thirty seconds so the drink mixes well and chills thoroughly.
- Prepare the Glass:
- If you want a pretty sugar rim dip the edge of your cocktail glass in simple syrup then roll it in superfine granulated sugar. Add about half a cup of fresh ice to the glass to keep everything cool and crisp.
- Strain and Pour:
- Remove the cap from your shaker and carefully strain the mixed cocktail over the ice in the prepared glass. This keeps the drink beautifully clear.
- Garnish Like a Pro:
- Top with a thin round slice of blood orange float a sprig of fresh rosemary and a cinnamon stick for aroma and drop three or four whole cranberries on top. These little touches make each drink feel special.
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I adore blood orange in cocktails because its deep color and almost raspberry-like notes are so unique. Last Christmas my friend brought cinnamon sticks and we popped them in as garnish. The scent filled the room and now it is our signature touch for this cocktail.
Storage Tips
Freshly mixed cocktails are always best enjoyed right away but you can blend the juice vodka and syrup together up to eight hours ahead and keep it chilled in the fridge. Hold off on adding ice and garnishes until just before serving so everything stays crisp and bright.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find blood oranges try regular naval oranges or even a splash of pomegranate juice for a similar pop of color and tartness. Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a floral twist. Non alcoholic vodka substitutes or sparkling water can make this a festive mocktail.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cocktail with savory appetizers like mini brie tarts or spiced nuts for a balanced flavor. Serve in vintage coupe glasses for extra glamour or use mason jars for a rustic cozy vibe. This is also wonderful as a welcome drink for guests arriving from the cold.
Cultural and Holiday Context
Cranberries are a classic winter ingredient in North America and often feature in holiday feasts. Blood oranges hit peak season at the same time making this a truly seasonal cocktail. For extra warmth on a snowy night enjoy by a fireplace with a tray of cookies or shortbread nearby.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular orange juice instead of blood-orange juice?
Yes, regular orange juice offers a bright citrus flavor, though the color and taste will be slightly different.
- → How should I rim the glass for this cocktail?
Dip the rim in simple syrup, then in super fine sugar before adding ice and pouring in the drink.
- → What are some garnish ideas?
Fresh cranberries, a slice of blood-orange, a rosemary sprig, or a cinnamon stick complement the flavors and look festive.
- → Can I make this cocktail without alcohol?
Yes, omit the vodka and use extra cranberry or orange juice for a flavorful mocktail version.
- → How do I get the best blend of flavors?
Shake the mixture with ice for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and fully blended, then strain over fresh ice.