Sweet, tangy, and a little bit festive—the Cranberry Kiss cocktail is the kind of drink that always gets a “Wow, what’s in this?” at parties. It’s my go-to for holiday gatherings, summer evenings, or anytime I want a sip of something that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Over the years, I’ve made this countless times, tweaking it here and there, and I’m excited to share my version with you. Let’s get started!
Cranberry Kiss
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one refreshing Cranberry Kiss:
- Vodka: 1.5 oz (45 ml)
- Cranberry juice: 4 oz (120 ml)
- Triple sec: 0.5 oz (15 ml)
- Fresh lime juice: A squeeze (about 1 tsp or 5 ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15 ml), optional for added sweetness
- Garnish: Lime wheel, fresh cranberries, or both
Glassware tip: A chilled martini glass is perfect for showing off the vibrant red hue, but a highball glass works if you’re keeping it casual.
Method
This cocktail comes together in no time—just a few simple steps:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in vodka, cranberry juice, and triple sec.
- Squeeze in some fresh lime juice. If you like your drinks sweeter, add a splash of simple syrup.
- Shake it all up! Give it a good, vigorous shake until the outside of the shaker feels icy cold.
- Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
- Add your garnish: a lime wheel, a few fresh cranberries, or even a sprig of mint for a fresh twist.
Take a sip, and enjoy that perfect balance of tart cranberry and zesty lime with just a hint of sweetness.
Prep & Storage Tips
- Make ahead: You can mix the cranberry juice, triple sec, lime juice, and simple syrup (if using) a few hours in advance and keep it chilled. Just add the vodka and shake when ready to serve.
- Storage: If you have leftover mix (without alcohol), store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
The Cranberry Kiss pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Grilled chicken: The tangy cranberry cuts through the smoky char perfectly.
- Cheese platter: A mix of creamy Brie and sharp cheddar works wonderfully with the drink’s sweet-tart flavors.
- Dark chocolate: The slight bitterness of dark chocolate is a great match for the cocktail’s bright, fruity notes.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Kiss
- Use fresh lime juice—it makes a world of difference in keeping the drink bright and flavorful.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for that extra-refreshing first sip.
- If you want to experiment, try swapping the vodka for gin for a more herbal twist, or add a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.
Variations
Here are a few fun spins on the classic Cranberry Kiss:
Winter Spice Cranberry Kiss
- Add a dash of cinnamon to the mix and garnish with a clove-studded lime wheel for a cozy, seasonal vibe.
Tropical Cranberry Kiss
- Blend in a splash of pineapple juice and a bit of coconut cream. Serve it frozen for a beachy twist!
Sparkling Cranberry Kiss
- Swap the vodka for sparkling wine or champagne. Pour the bubbly over the cranberry mix and serve in a champagne flute.
Virgin Cranberry Kiss
- Skip the vodka and triple sec, and use sparkling water instead. It’s just as refreshing and perfect for those who prefer a non-alcoholic option.
FAQs
Can I make this in a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the recipe and mix everything except the vodka in a pitcher. Add the vodka right before serving, and let guests pour their own over ice.
How can I lower the sugar content?
Use unsweetened cranberry juice and skip the simple syrup. You can also sweeten it with a natural option like stevia or honey.
What if I don’t have triple sec?
No worries! You can use orange juice or any other orange-flavored liqueur as a substitute.
Can I garnish with frozen cranberries?
Yes! They look gorgeous and act as tiny ice cubes to keep your drink cold without watering it down.
What’s the best way to make it more festive for the holidays?
Rim the glass with sugar, add a sprig of rosemary, or toss in a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.
Final Thoughts
The Cranberry Kiss is a cocktail that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a fancy holiday party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this drink always delivers. And with so many ways to customize it, you can make it your own every time. Cheers!
