A Cranberry Delight is one of those cocktails that’s just as pretty as it is refreshing. With its bright red hue, crisp cranberry tang, and a citrusy zip, it’s the kind of drink that works just as well on a summer patio as it does at a cozy winter gathering. I’ve made this drink countless times—especially around the holidays—and I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it even better. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to shake up your own Cranberry Delight at home.
Cranberry Delight
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball glass or stemless wine glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 4 oz (120 ml) cranberry juice (unsweetened or light, if preferred)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec)
– Juice of 1 lime wedge (about 0.25 oz / 7 ml)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
– Splash of club soda
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel or fresh cranberries for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup (if using).
- Give it a good shake—about 10 seconds is perfect. You want it chilled but not overly diluted.
- Fill your highball glass with fresh ice, then strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top with a splash of club soda for a little fizz and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wheel, a few fresh cranberries, or even a sprig of mint if you’ve got it.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lime juice—bottled just doesn’t have the same zing.
– Don’t skip the shake. It chills and lightly blends the ingredients so the flavors come together smoothly.
– Adjust the sweetness by playing with the simple syrup. If your cranberry juice is already sweetened, you might not need it at all.
– Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra crisp drink.
Make-Ahead Note
Want to prep ahead for a party? Mix everything except the club soda and ice. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just pour over ice, top with soda, and garnish.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but the pre-mixed base (without soda or ice) can be stored in the fridge for up to a day. Leftovers aren’t ideal because the soda will go flat and the flavors can dull.
Serving Suggestions
A Cranberry Delight goes well with:
– Spicy appetizers like jalapeño poppers or buffalo wings—the tartness cools down the heat.
– Grilled chicken skewers or citrus-marinated shrimp.
– Dark chocolate desserts—the sweet-bitter combo plays beautifully with the cranberry’s tang.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch and winter parties alike. It’s just that versatile.
Recipe Variations
Winter Spice Cranberry Delight
Add a cozy twist by infusing your vodka with a cinnamon stick and a couple of star anise pods. Let it sit for 1–2 hours before mixing.
Tropical Cranberry Delight
Swap the vodka for coconut rum and add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice. Blend it with ice for a frozen treat.
Herbal Cranberry Delight
Muddle fresh rosemary or thyme in the shaker with the cranberry juice before adding the rest. It adds a savory, aromatic layer that’s especially nice in cooler months.
Non-Alcoholic Version (Virgin Cranberry Delight)
Mix 4 oz (120 ml) cranberry juice with a squeeze of lime and a splash of club soda. Garnish with berries or mint. It’s just as festive and refreshing.
Substitutions
– No vodka? Try gin for a more botanical flavor.
– No orange liqueur? A splash of orange juice and a dash of orange bitters works in a pinch.
– No club soda? Sparkling water or ginger ale adds fizz and fun.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Don’t over-shake—too much shaking can water it down.
– Don’t skip the garnish—it really does elevate the drink both in flavor and looks.
– Don’t use overly sweet cranberry cocktail unless you adjust the syrup. You want balance, not a sugar bomb.
FAQs
Can I make a big batch?
Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients by how many servings you need, mix everything except the soda in a pitcher, and chill. Add soda and ice just before serving.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! They double as a garnish and mini ice cubes that won’t dilute your drink.
Is there a citrus-free version?
Skip the lime and try a splash of pomegranate juice or cranberry bitters for tartness.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use unsweetened cranberry juice and skip the simple syrup. You can always add more sweetness later if needed.
What’s the best glass to serve it in?
A highball glass shows off the color and gives you room for ice and soda. A stemless wine glass adds a touch of elegance.
Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or serving a crowd, the Cranberry Delight is a bright, balanced cocktail that’s easy to love. It’s festive, flexible, and fun to customize—just the kind of drink that belongs in your regular rotation. Cheers!
