A Last Call is the kind of cocktail you want to end the night with—bright, crisp, and just the right balance of sweet and tart. It’s got a little zing, a splash of fruitiness, and an herbal whisper from the citrus oils. This one’s been my go-to for summer nights on the patio, and I thought I’d share it with you because it’s simple, delicious, and always a hit.
Last Call
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail (easily doubled or batched)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) triple sec (or another orange liqueur like Cointreau)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
– 1 oz (30 ml) cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
– Orange peel, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
– Use gin instead of vodka for a more botanical flavor
– Swap lime juice for lemon or grapefruit juice for a different citrus note
– Replace triple sec with a splash of honey syrup or agave if you prefer a natural sweetener
Method
- Put a martini glass or rocks glass in the freezer to chill while you prep.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vodka, triple sec, lime juice, and cranberry juice.
- Shake it like you mean it—about 15 seconds—until the shaker feels icy cold.
- Strain the drink into your chilled glass.
- Twist an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in as garnish. That little burst of citrus aroma really brings everything together.
Tips for a Perfect Last Call
– Use fresh lime juice. Bottled just doesn’t give the same brightness.
– Chill your glass ahead of time. It keeps the drink crisp and cold longer.
– Don’t skimp on the shake. A good shake blends everything and gives it that light, refreshing texture.
– Watch the cranberry juice. If it’s super sweet, balance it with a touch more lime juice.
Make-Ahead Notes
Hosting? You can mix a big batch (just scale the ingredients) and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake individual servings with ice just before serving to keep that freshly mixed taste.
Storage
Leftover mixed cocktail (without ice) will stay fresh in the fridge for about a day, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Once shaken with ice, it’s not great for storing.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail plays well with food. Try these pairings to round out your evening:
Salty Snacks
– Salted almonds or cashews
– Bruschetta with tomato and basil
– Light charcuterie board
Spicy Dishes
– Buffalo wings
– Spicy shrimp tacos
– Jalapeño poppers
The citrus in the drink cuts through the heat and keeps your palate refreshed.
Desserts
– Dark chocolate truffles
– Chocolate lava cake
– Chocolate-dipped strawberries
There’s something magical about the sweet-tart cranberry and the richness of chocolate. Trust me, I’ve made this drink countless times—this combo never fails.
Variations to Try
Tropical Last Call
– Add a splash of pineapple juice
– Garnish with a pineapple wedge
Berry Last Call
– Use raspberry vodka
– Muddle a few fresh berries before shaking
– Rim the glass with sugar for an extra treat
Herbal Last Call
– Muddle 2–3 fresh basil leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients
– Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass for a garden-fresh twist
Non-Alcoholic (Virgin) Last Call
– Skip the vodka and triple sec
– Use cranberry juice, lime juice, and a splash of orange juice or soda water
– Garnish as usual for a grown-up mocktail version
Common Questions
Can I make this for a group?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Shake individual servings with ice for that fresh taste.
Is this just a summer drink?
Not at all. Its bright flavor is great in warm weather, but it also works as a light winter cocktail—especially with a festive garnish.
What’s the best garnish?
A twist of orange or lime works beautifully. If you’re feeling fancy, try a dehydrated citrus slice.
How can I make it healthier?
Use unsweetened cranberry juice and a natural sweetener like honey or agave. You can also go light on the triple sec.
What should I avoid serving with this?
Very bitter or umami-heavy foods (like blue cheese or soy-heavy dishes) can clash with the cocktail’s fruity profile.
Final Sips
The Last Call is all about balance—sweet, tart, a little citrusy, and endlessly sippable. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or hosting friends, it’s the kind of drink that feels like a celebration in a glass. Try it your way, make it your own, and most of all—enjoy every sip.
