Cape Codder Cocktail Recipe

ByJohn

A Cape Codder cocktail brings together the sweet-tart taste of cranberry juice with smooth vodka. This simple two-ingredient drink mixes one part vodka with three parts cranberry juice. Serve it over ice with a lime wedge.

The drink got its name from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where cranberry bogs stretch across the area. It gained fame in the 1960s when Ocean Spray started promoting cranberry juice cocktails.

The Cape Codder stands out as an easy-to-make drink that works well for parties or quiet evenings at home. The bright red color makes it eye-catching, while its refreshing taste appeals to many people who want something light and fruity.

Cape Codder Cocktail Recipe

Cape Codder Cocktail Recipe

Cape Codder Cocktail Recipe
The Cape Codder combines vodka and cranberry juice for a simple yet refreshing drink. A squeeze of lime adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

This drink works best with 100% cranberry juice rather than cranberry cocktail for a less sweet taste.
The ratio of vodka to juice can be adjusted based on personal taste.
Good quality vodka makes a difference. Choose a smooth brand that doesn’t have a harsh alcohol taste.
Keep ingredients chilled before mixing for the most refreshing result.
A splash of club soda can be added for a lighter version with bubbles.
The drink can be made in large batches for parties by maintaining the same proportions.

Tasting Notes

A Cape Codder has a crisp, tart taste from the cranberry juice mixed with the clean, smooth notes of vodka. The drink offers a bright red color and refreshing character.

The first sip brings forward the sweet-tart cranberry flavor. The vodka adds minimal taste but creates a warming sensation. When made with fresh cranberry juice, the cocktail has more natural flavor compared to using cranberry cocktail.

Main Flavor Notes:

  • Tart cranberry
  • Light sweetness
  • Clean vodka finish
  • Subtle citrus (if lime garnish used)

The drink tastes less sweet than many other cocktails. Its simple flavor profile makes it easy to enjoy and not too heavy. The taste stays consistent from first sip to last since there are only two main ingredients.

Adding a squeeze of lime brings extra brightness and balances the cranberry’s tartness. The citrus note complements both the vodka and cranberry while adding complexity to the taste.

The drink works well in any season. Its crisp character makes it especially good for warm weather enjoyment. The cranberry flavor gives it a festive touch during fall and winter months.

Must Have Ingredients

Substitute

A Cape Codder can still taste great when vodka isn’t available. Gin makes an excellent swap and creates a drink called a Sea Breeze.

White rum also pairs well with cranberry juice for a tropical twist.

For non-alcoholic versions, plain seltzer water or club soda can replace the vodka. This creates a refreshing cranberry spritzer. Some people add a splash of lime juice to enhance the flavor.

Other cranberry juice alternatives include:

Pro tip: When using juice substitutes, start with 2 parts juice to 1 part mixer. Adjust to taste from there.

The garnish can change too. Instead of the classic lime wedge, try:

Hey there, I’m John Watson—a guy who’s spent over 20 years proving that a good drink can fix just about anything (well, almost anything). Whether it’s cocktails that wow or mocktails that mock boredom, I’m all about crafting sips with stories. Founder of ThirstyTales and full-time drink nerd, I’m here to help you shake things up, one glass at a time. Let’s mix, laugh, and maybe spill a little—cheers to the adventure!

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