Sweet, fruity, and just a little bit fizzy-the Hello Kitty cocktail is a fun and easy drink that always brings a smile. With cranberry juice, vodka, and a splash of soda water, it’s light, refreshing, and great for everything from weekend brunches to themed parties. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to make it even better.
Hello Kitty
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 3 oz (90 ml) cranberry juice (go for 100% juice or low-sugar if you’d like it less sweet)
– 1 oz (30 ml) soda water (or tonic water for a twist)
– Ice cubes
– Lemon twist or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Method
- Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes-this helps keep the drink cold without watering it down too quickly.
- Fill your glass with ice. A full glass helps the cocktail stay crisp and cool.
- Pour in the vodka first. That way it mixes evenly as you add the other ingredients.
- Add the cranberry juice. You’ll see the color turn a beautiful ruby red-just what you want.
- Top it off with soda water. You’ll hear a gentle fizz-that’s your sign it’s coming together just right.
- Give it a gentle stir. Don’t overdo it; just enough to mix everything without losing the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry. I like to drop the cherry right in-it adds a little surprise at the bottom.
Tips & Substitutions
– Want a slightly tangier drink? Add a splash of fresh lime juice.
– No vodka? Try white rum or gin for a different spin.
– Watching sugar? Use unsweetened cranberry juice and a splash of stevia or honey.
– For a bubbly kick, swap soda water with tonic or flavored sparkling water.
– Make it ahead: Mix the vodka and cranberry juice in a pitcher and store in the fridge for up to 1 day. Add soda water and ice just before serving.
What It Tastes Like
This drink is light, crisp, and slightly sweet with just a hint of tartness from the cranberry juice. The soda water keeps it refreshing, while the vodka adds a clean, smooth finish. It’s the kind of cocktail that’s easy to sip, not too strong, and perfect for warm afternoons or festive nights.
Serving Ideas
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s also a big hit at themed parties or girls’ night in. Serve it with:
– A platter of sushi rolls-its fruity notes pair beautifully with the fresh fish.
– A bright fruit salad-think strawberries, kiwi, and melon.
– A simple cheese board-soft brie, salty feta, or sharp cheddar all work well.
Variations
Want to switch it up? Try one of these fun takes:
Kitty Colada
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) white rum
– 2 oz (60 ml) pineapple juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) coconut cream
– Blend with ice for a tropical twist
Kitty Margarita
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) tequila
– 1 oz (30 ml) lime juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) triple sec
– 1 oz (30 ml) cranberry juice
– Shake with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass
Kitty Mojito
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) white rum
– A few mint leaves
– 1 oz (30 ml) lime juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) cranberry juice
– Top with soda water
– Muddle the mint with lime juice, then build the rest over ice
Non-Alcoholic Version
– 3 oz (90 ml) cranberry juice
– 1 oz (30 ml) soda water
– Splash of lime juice
– Garnish with a cherry or lemon twist
Perfect for kids’ parties or anyone skipping the booze.
Storage
If you’re mixing for a crowd, combine the vodka and cranberry juice ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge (up to 24 hours). Add soda water and ice when serving to keep the fizz fresh.
Helpful Notes
– Always use fresh cranberry juice if you can-it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
– Overstirring can flatten the soda water, so keep it gentle.
– If you’re using tonic water instead of soda, remember it adds a slight bitterness that balances sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use flavored vodka?
Absolutely! Try citrus or berry vodka for an extra fruity twist.
Is there a healthier version?
Yes-use unsweetened cranberry juice and soda water, and skip sugary garnishes.
What if I don’t have soda water?
You can use sparkling water, tonic, or even ginger ale for a spicier kick.
What’s the best garnish?
A lemon twist adds brightness, but a maraschino cherry brings a sweet finish. You can even float a mint leaf for extra freshness.
Wrap-Up
The Hello Kitty cocktail is light, playful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or making a batch for friends, it’s a drink that never goes out of style. Try it as-is, or play with the variations to find your favorite version. Serve it cold, garnish with something fun, and enjoy every sip.
