A Kitty cocktail is light, refreshing, and just the right mix of sweet and tart. It’s one of those drinks that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day or serving up at a casual get-together. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to impress. The combination of vodka, cranberry juice, and a splash of sparkling water makes for an easygoing but flavorful drink that’s simple to mix and even easier to enjoy.
Kitty Non Alcoholic
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 0.5 oz (15ml) Triple Sec
- 2 oz (60ml) cranberry juice
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice
- A splash of sparkling water
- Ice
- Lime slice, for garnish
Glass: A highball glass works best, letting the colors shine through. A Collins glass is another great option.
How to Make a Kitty
- Fill your glass with ice to chill it while you mix the drink.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, Triple Sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
- Shake well, then strain into your prepared glass.
- Top with a splash of sparkling water for a bit of fizz.
- Garnish with a lime slice, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Tip: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled. It makes a big difference!
Make-Ahead & Storage
Want to prep this ahead for a party? Mix everything except the sparkling water and lime juice in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, pour over ice, add the fizz, and finish with a squeeze of lime.
Ways to Customize Your Kitty
Want to switch things up? Here are a few easy tweaks:
- Swap the vodka for gin if you like a more botanical flavor.
- Use Cointreau instead of Triple Sec for a smoother, more refined taste.
- Try fresh cranberry juice for a tangier, more natural version.
Fun Variations
Summer Breeze Kitty
- Replace cranberry juice with watermelon juice.
- Add a dash of elderflower syrup.
- Garnish with a watermelon slice.
Winter Spice Kitty
- Add cinnamon syrup.
- Swap lime juice for orange juice.
- Stir everything together in the glass instead of shaking.
Tropical Kitty
- Use coconut water instead of sparkling water.
- Add a splash of pineapple juice.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
Non-Alcoholic Version
For a refreshing mocktail, replace the vodka and Triple Sec with sparkling water and a dash of lime cordial. It’s just as light and tasty!
Perfect Food Pairings
A Kitty cocktail pairs well with:
- Light salads – A citrus vinaigrette brings out the drink’s bright flavors.
- Grilled seafood – The slight sweetness of the Kitty balances smoky, charred seafood.
- Chicken dishes – Whether roasted or grilled, chicken works beautifully with this cocktail.
Pro Tips for the Best Kitty
- Chill your glass before pouring the drink to keep it extra refreshing.
- Experiment with vodka brands—some are smoother than others.
- Frozen cranberries make a great garnish and keep the drink cold without watering it down.
Q&A
Can I make a Kitty in a big batch?
Yes! Mix everything except the sparkling water and lime juice in a pitcher. Let guests add those to their glasses for freshness.
How do I adjust the sweetness?
If you like it sweeter, add a splash of simple syrup. For a drier version, reduce the Triple Sec.
What’s the best way to serve this at a party?
A self-serve bar works great—set out the ingredients with instructions so guests can mix their own.
Can I enjoy this year-round?
Absolutely! It’s cooling in summer, but variations like the Winter Spice Kitty make it perfect for colder months.
This cocktail has been my go-to for warm evenings, and I love how easy it is to tweak depending on the season or occasion. Whether you’re making the classic version or trying a fun twist, the Kitty is always a hit!
