I’m always on the hunt for new ways to make the holidays feel a little more special, especially when it comes to drinks.
Cranberry vodka cocktails just pop at Christmas parties—they’re easy, they look gorgeous, and they’re actually refreshing.
If you’re searching for something to wow your guests or just want to shake things up, these recipes are a solid place to start.
I swear, a festive drink always brings people together and sets the mood.
1) Classic Cranberry Vodka Martini
I have to say, a Classic Cranberry Vodka Martini is my go-to for Christmas parties.
It’s so simple to whip up, but it somehow feels fancy in the right glass. That bright red color is just made for the holidays.
Usually, I’ll toss some ice in a shaker, then pour in two ounces of vodka, one ounce of cranberry juice, and half an ounce of triple sec. Sometimes I squeeze in a bit of lime juice—just depends on my mood.
I shake it up until it’s ice cold and strain into a chilled martini glass. A few cranberries or a lime twist on top, and it looks like I actually tried.
Honestly, what I love most is how easy it is to tweak. Want it sweeter? Use sweetened cranberry juice. Prefer it tart? Go unsweetened and add extra lime.
The whole thing tastes crisp, not too boozy. Cranberry gives it a fruity zing that just screams winter. Vodka keeps it smooth and blends right in.
If I’m expecting a crowd, I’ll just mix a big batch in a pitcher—so much easier. Pour into glasses when friends show up, and I get to hang out instead of playing bartender all night.
Garnishes make a difference, too. Sugar rim, rosemary sprig, whatever I’ve got—takes two seconds and always impresses.
The Classic Cranberry Vodka Martini is just the right way to kick off a holiday meal. It pairs well with snacks, and honestly, it’s always a hit whenever I bring it out at Christmas.
2) Cranberry Vodka Mule
There’s something about a Cranberry Vodka Mule that’s just so easy and satisfying. Tart cranberry juice, smooth vodka, and that zingy ginger beer—yeah, it’s a holiday twist on the classic Moscow Mule, and I’m here for it.
I fill up a copper mug with ice, pour in about two ounces of vodka and two ounces of cranberry juice. Usually I reach for unsweetened, but hey, sweetened works if you like it mellow.
A squeeze of fresh lime juice—half a lime is plenty—makes everything taste brighter. Then I top it off with ginger beer, filling the mug right to the brim.
A gentle stir, and it’s ready. I like to toss in a few cranberries and a rosemary sprig for that festive vibe. Red and green—classic Christmas, right?
The flavors just work. Ginger beer brings a little heat, cranberry’s got tartness, and vodka keeps it smooth and easy to drink.
It’s a party drink for sure. I’ll make a big pitcher ahead of time, then just add ginger beer as I serve, so every glass is fizzy and fresh.
Want it sweeter? Splash in some simple syrup or orange liqueur. For something lighter, just add more ginger beer.
The Cranberry Vodka Mule is simple, colorful, and perfect for the holidays. I get asked for the recipe every time. It’s honestly one of my favorites this time of year.
3) Cranberry Vodka Sour
A Cranberry Vodka Sour is one of those drinks I keep coming back to during the holidays. It’s bright, sweet, tart, and the color pops on any table.
I grab my shaker, fill it with ice, and pour in two ounces vodka, one ounce cranberry juice, half an ounce lemon juice, and a splash of simple syrup. It’s a quick mix.
Shake until the shaker’s frosty, then strain over ice in a glass. I’ll usually add a few cranberries or a lemon slice for garnish—looks great with a holiday spread.
The tart lemon and sweet cranberry are what make this so good. It’s not super strong, so it works for a party or just a quiet night. Sometimes I swap in lime juice if I want to mix things up.
I always use real cranberry juice—it just tastes better. For less sour, a bit more syrup does the trick. Want it stronger? Go easy on the juice.
It’s fast to make, so I can whip up a round if people drop by last minute. The color’s festive, and the flavor is always a hit.
Cranberry Vodka Sour is definitely one of my favorite easy Christmas cocktails. Feels festive, barely any effort, and the flavors just say “holiday” to me.
4) Cranberry Vodka Spritz
Making a Cranberry Vodka Spritz is honestly a breeze, and I love how it looks. That red color, the bubbles—every time I serve it, someone wants the recipe.
I fill a glass with ice, pour in 1.5 ounces vodka, then add 2 ounces cranberry juice. Top it off with club soda or sparkling water, and give it a gentle stir.
Sometimes I’ll use cranberry-flavored vodka if I’m feeling extra. A squeeze of lime juice wakes it up—I’m a fan of that little kick.
Garnish? Fresh cranberries and a lime slice. Takes no time, but it makes the drink look like something special for Christmas.
It’s not overly sweet, so I can sip all night and not get tired of it. Bubbles and cranberry together? Super refreshing.
If I’m craving a sweeter drink, I’ll add a splash of simple syrup or just use sweetened cranberry juice. Easy to adjust for everyone’s taste.
This drink is simple, festive, and always a hit at my holiday get-togethers.
5) Cranberry Vodka Fizz
Serving up a Cranberry Vodka Fizz at Christmas is kind of my thing. It’s bubbly, bright, and just looks so good in a glass. Cranberry and soda together really bring that holiday vibe.
I pour cranberry juice and vodka over ice, then top with club soda or sparkling water. Quick stir, and it’s done.
A few fresh cranberries and a lime slice on top make it look even better. It’s a small detail, but people notice.
If I want it sweeter, I’ll add a bit of simple syrup. For something lighter, I’ll go with diet cranberry juice or more soda. It’s easy to play around with, depending on what’s in the fridge.
This drink is great for parties since it’s so fast to put together. I’ll set everything out and let guests mix their own—everyone gets their perfect fizz.
Tall glass, lots of ice—that cranberry color really pops. Feels special, but barely takes any effort.
If I’m in the mood for more bubbles, I’ll swap club soda for sparkling wine. Suddenly it’s a holiday spritz—great for a crowd.
The Cranberry Vodka Fizz is light, refreshing, and you can sip it all night. It’s one of those holiday cocktails I end up making again and again.
6) Cranberry Vodka Collins
A Cranberry Vodka Collins is something I make all winter long. It’s tart, refreshing, and honestly couldn’t be easier. It’s become a bit of a staple for me.
I fill a tall glass with ice and pour in 2 ounces vodka. Then I add 1 ounce cranberry juice—it gives that pop of color. Juice from half a lemon goes in for some tang.
Top it with club soda, give it a quick stir, and if I want it sweeter, I’ll sprinkle in a little sugar. Fresh cranberries and a lemon slice on top, and it’s ready to serve.
This cocktail is light and sparkling. Cranberry and lemon just work together, and it’s not too strong, so it’s perfect for a party or just chilling at home.
Making a big batch is easy—just scale everything up. It always looks good in a glass, even though it’s so simple. The Cranberry Vodka Collins is one of those drinks that always gets compliments.
7) Cranberry Vodka Mojito
A Cranberry Vodka Mojito just feels right for Christmas. It’s light, crisp, and the cranberry with mint looks so festive.
I start by muddling fresh mint leaves and a couple lime wedges in a glass. That brings out the minty flavor and a splash of green. Then I add cranberry juice and vodka.
I toss in a handful of ice to keep it nice and cold. After pouring in the vodka and juice, I top it off with club soda. It’s got that bubbly finish I love. It’s honestly so easy, even if I have a bunch of guests.
Sometimes I’ll float a few whole cranberries on top—they look great. A mint sprig as garnish makes it feel even more special. This drink’s always a hit at parties or family dinners.
The tart cranberry, smooth vodka, and fresh mint just work. It’s not too strong, so it’s more refreshing than heavy.
If I want it sweeter, I’ll add a splash of simple syrup. For extra tartness, a bit more lime juice does the trick. There are so many ways to change it up, I never get bored.
Honestly, nothing says Christmas to me like a cold cranberry vodka mojito in hand, surrounded by friends and family.
8) Cranberry Vodka Eggnog
Mixing up classic holiday flavors always makes things more interesting at my Christmas parties. Cranberry Vodka Eggnog is a fun twist—it’s got a fruity pop that really wakes up regular old eggnog.
It’s honestly super simple to make. I grab some chilled eggnog, splash in cranberry juice, and add a shot of vodka.
I give it a good stir so the creamy and tart flavors blend together. The cranberry juice gives the eggnog this pretty light pink color and a tangy kick that pairs nicely with the sweetness.
The vodka adds just enough warmth without making it too boozy. Sometimes, if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll rim the glass with sugar for sparkle.
A few fresh cranberries or a little nutmeg on top make it look festive. This cocktail is smooth and creamy but somehow not too heavy.
The cranberry keeps it from getting cloying, so it’s actually refreshing. I like serving it at parties, but honestly, it’s just as good on a quiet winter night.
If I want it colder, I’ll pour it over ice. And for parties, I’ve set up an eggnog bar where everyone can add their own cranberry and vodka—people seem to love that.
It’s an easy way to make eggnog less boring and I get a lot of compliments. If you’re into classic holiday drinks with a twist, try Cranberry Vodka Eggnog this Christmas.
9) Cranberry Vodka Lemonade
There’s something so easy and refreshing about Cranberry Vodka Lemonade around the holidays. It’s just sweet cranberry juice, tart lemonade, and smooth vodka coming together.
I usually pour equal parts cranberry juice and lemonade over ice. Then a shot of vodka goes in, and I give it a quick stir.
Sometimes I squeeze in extra fresh lemon juice for a bit more tang. It really brightens everything up.
For garnish, a lemon slice or a few cranberries on top always looks good. It’s a small thing but makes it feel festive.
This cocktail couldn’t be easier to mix. I never bother with fancy bar gear—just a glass and a spoon does the trick.
I serve Cranberry Vodka Lemonade when friends pop by or when I’m craving something quick but not boring. The flavors stay crisp, not overly sweet.
If I want it lighter, I’ll top it off with club soda. The bubbles make it extra fun to sip.
Sometimes I rim the glass with sugar—just rub a lemon wedge around the edge and dip it in sugar before pouring the drink in.
I keep all the ingredients on hand during December. People always ask for this one.
It’s a little tart, a little sweet, and never fails at a party. If I’m making it for a group, I just use a pitcher and add ice right before serving.
Cranberry Vodka Lemonade is one of my go-to’s. It’s quick, cheerful, and always looks inviting.
10) Cranberry Vodka Punch
Serving up Cranberry Vodka Punch at holiday parties is always a win. It’s ridiculously easy and people seem to go back for seconds. The punch is bright, sweet, and just a bit tart.
To make it, I mix vodka, cranberry juice, and lemon-lime soda in a big bowl. A handful of ice keeps it nice and cold.
Sometimes I’ll add a splash of orange juice if I want more flavor. Fresh cranberries and orange slices floating on top look great and make the bowl feel festive.
If I want it sweeter, I swap in cranberry juice cocktail instead of plain juice. This recipe scales up easily, so I can double or triple it for a crowd.
It comes together quickly but looks impressive in a big glass bowl. For a fancier touch, I serve it in clear glasses with a sugared rim.
That only takes a minute but feels special. I like how customizable this punch is.
If I’m in the mood for something spicier, I use ginger ale instead of lemon-lime soda. A sprig of rosemary in each glass gives it a holiday vibe.
Cranberry Vodka Punch is always popular at my gatherings. The colors just scream Christmas, and the taste is crisp and refreshing.
11) Cranberry Vodka Sunset
The look of a Cranberry Vodka Sunset on the table is just gorgeous. The red and orange layers remind me of a winter sunset—kind of dreamy, honestly.
To make it, I start with vodka and cranberry juice over ice. I pour the cranberry juice in slowly, so it creates those pretty layers.
A splash of fresh orange juice goes on top. I stir it just a little to get that sunset effect.
The flavor is fresh and bright. The cranberry brings tartness, the orange adds sweet citrus, and it’s not too strong.
It’s easy to drink and not heavy or overly sweet. For garnish, I like fresh cranberries or an orange slice.
A clear glass really shows off the colors. The Cranberry Vodka Sunset is simple to scale up, too.
I just keep the vodka-to-juice ratio the same and it works for a crowd. Always one of my favorite holiday cocktails—it’s eye-catching and easy, which is perfect for Christmas.
12) Cranberry Vodka Julep
There’s something about a Cranberry Vodka Julep that just feels right for the holidays. It’s a twist on the classic julep, and people always notice it at my gatherings.
The mix of mint, cranberry, and vodka is both crisp and festive. I start by muddling a few mint leaves in my glass.
A spoonful of cranberry sauce—leftover from dinner works great—goes in next. Then I add a shot of vodka and a splash of cranberry juice for color and flavor.
Crushed ice is a must to keep it super cold. Topping with club soda makes it light and refreshing.
The mint and cranberry combo is sweet and tart, and it’s not too strong for people who don’t want a heavy drink. For garnish, I tuck in a sprig of mint and toss in a few cranberries.
It looks special without much work. This julep is easy to prep ahead for parties.
I mix the base and keep it chilled, then add ice and soda when guests arrive. It’s always a hit at my Christmas table.
13) Cranberry Vodka Sangria
Making Cranberry Vodka Sangria for the holidays has become a bit of a tradition for me. It’s so colorful and looks amazing on any Christmas table.
This sangria blends sweet and tart flavors in every glass. I start with vodka and cranberry juice as the base.
Then I add a bottle of dry white wine—Sauvignon Blanc is usually my pick. Fresh cranberries and orange slices go in for color and a pop of flavor.
I like to chill the sangria for an hour or so to let the flavors meld. If I want it sweeter, I’ll add a splash of simple syrup or orange liqueur.
Right before serving, I throw in a handful of ice cubes. Sometimes I add extra berries just because they look fun.
It’s easy to make a big pitcher and let everyone help themselves. The cranberry and orange combo really makes this drink stand out.
The wine keeps it light and refreshing, and the vodka gives it a gentle kick. I serve it in clear glasses so the colorful fruit shows through.
If I have fresh mint, I’ll add a sprig for garnish. It’s a small touch, but it adds a bit of color and a fresh scent.
14) Cranberry Vodka Hot Toddy
When it’s freezing outside, I can’t resist a Cranberry Vodka Hot Toddy. The warmth of this drink is just so comforting during the holidays.
It’s a twist on the classic hot toddy, swapping in cranberry juice and vodka for a bit of a festive kick. I heat cranberry juice until it’s steamy (not boiling!) and pour it into a mug.
A shot of vodka goes in, plus a bit of honey and a squeeze of lemon for balance. I like to stir in a cinnamon stick for extra flavor.
Sometimes I’ll add a few whole cranberries for a pop of color. It just looks so inviting.
I usually use unsweetened cranberry juice, but if I’m in the mood for something sweeter, I’ll use the sweetened kind. If I want the drink a little stronger, I won’t hesitate to add more vodka.
For garnish, I’ll sometimes float an orange slice or add a sprig of rosemary. The herbs and citrus together smell amazing and really bump up the holiday vibe.
If you’re looking to warm up and get into the Christmas spirit, this Cranberry Vodka Hot Toddy hits the spot. It’s simple, cozy, and perfect for December nights.
15) Cranberry Vodka Gimlet
Honestly, I reach for a Cranberry Vodka Gimlet whenever I’m craving something tart and refreshing. It’s like a classic gimlet but with a fruity, almost holiday-ish twist.
That combo of cranberry and fresh lime? Bright, smooth, and, well, it just works.
I usually throw together vodka, cranberry juice, and a hit of fresh lime juice. If I’m in the mood for a touch more sweetness, I’ll splash in some simple syrup.
Everything gets a good shake with ice until it’s nice and cold.
The color is this deep, festive red that just pops in the glass. I like to pour it into a chilled glass—sometimes I’ll toss in a few cranberries or a lime wheel for garnish.
It’s a small detail, but it makes the drink look extra special. Kind of fun to serve, honestly.
What I really like is how the cranberry’s tartness balances out the vodka. Every sip is crisp and lively.
It’s a super easy cocktail, but it always manages to feel a little fancy at parties.
Not into sweet drinks? Just use unsweetened cranberry juice and tweak the syrup to taste.
I always sneak a sip before serving, just to make sure it’s dialed in the way I like.
Cranberry Vodka Gimlets are quick to mix up and, in my experience, people always seem to love them. Simple, bold, and super fresh—what’s not to like?
