This Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is a refreshing drink that mixes sweet cranberry juice with fizzy soda and a splash of vodka. Perfect for parties or a cozy evening!
I love how easy it is to make—just mix and pour over ice. You can even add some fresh fruit for a pop of color. Cheers to that! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use any clear vodka you enjoy. If you want a twist, try flavored vodka like citrus or vanilla for extra depth! If you’re avoiding alcohol, you can skip the vodka and make a simple cranberry spritzer with just juice and soda.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend unsweetened cranberry juice for a more balanced flavor. If that’s hard to find, look for lightly sweetened versions or consider cranberry juice cocktail, but be mindful it’s sweeter. You could also substitute with pomegranate juice for a similar tartness.
Club Soda/Sparkling Water: This gives your spritzer its refreshing fizz. If you prefer a sweeter drink, use lemon-lime soda. You can also infuse your club soda with fresh herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist!
Garnishes: Fresh cranberries are a lovely touch! If you don’t have access to them, a slice of lemon or lime also works great. Rosemary adds a nice herbal aroma, but you can use mint or basil as a tasty alternative.
How Can I Ensure My Spritzer is Refreshing and Well-Balanced?
Creating a perfectly balanced spritzer is all about proportions. Use equal parts of cranberry juice and club soda to avoid it being too sweet or too strong. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with the ice: fill your glass with ice first to keep it cold and dilute it slowly.
- Pour vodka and cranberry juice over ice. This helps the flavors mix evenly.
- Top with club soda last. It should fizz gently. Stir cautiously to keep the bubbles!
- Taste after mixing. If it’s too strong, add more soda. Need sweetness? A touch of simple syrup can help.
Enjoy each sip of your homemade spritzer, perfect for any gathering or a relaxing night in!
Delicious Cranberry Vodka Spritzer Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 2 oz club soda or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedge (optional, for garnish or a squeeze of juice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing drink is super quick to make! You’ll need about 5 minutes to gather your ingredients and put it all together. Enjoy this delightful spritzer at any time, whether for a cozy evening at home or a lively gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by filling a tall glass with ice cubes. Adding ice first keeps your drink cold and refreshing as you mix the ingredients.
2. Mix the Base:
Pour in 2 ounces of vodka and then add 4 ounces of cranberry juice over the ice. This combination will be the heart of your spritzer!
3. Add the Fizz:
Top off your drink with 2 ounces of club soda or sparkling water. The fizz is what makes this cocktail extra festive and refreshing!
4. Stir It Up:
Gently stir the mixture to combine all the flavors together. Be careful not to stir too hard; you want to keep those lovely bubbles!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish your spritzer with a handful of fresh cranberries for a decorative look. If you have rosemary, place a sprig in the glass for a fragrant touch. It’s optional, but it looks great!
6. Optional Zest:
If you like, add a lime wedge on the rim or give your drink a quick squeeze of lime juice for an extra layer of brightness and flavor.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Your Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy this crisp, delicious drink with friends or simply for yourself!
Can I Use Different Types of Juice?
Absolutely! While cranberry juice is traditional, you can experiment with other juices like pomegranate or even a mix of cranberry and orange juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep the ratios in mind to maintain balance!
How Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the vodka and increase the amount of cranberry juice and club soda. This way, you still get a refreshing spritzer that everyone can enjoy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover cranberry juice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Vodka doesn’t need special storage, but make sure to seal it tightly after use. If you have garnishes like fresh cranberries or herbs, keep them in the fridge, wrapped well or in a container to maintain freshness.
Can I Make This Recipe in Larger Batches?
Yes! You can easily scale this recipe up. Just maintain the same ratios and mix everything in a pitcher instead of individual glasses. This is perfect for parties or gatherings, just be sure to add club soda right before serving to keep the fizz!
