Classic Cranberry Vodka Martini Cocktail Recipe

A cranberry vodka martini is such a straightforward way to enjoy a balanced cocktail at home. It’s got that tart cranberry bite and smooth vodka, so it feels refreshing but still classic.

This recipe will walk you through making a cranberry vodka martini with just a handful of ingredients and some basic bar tools.

I’m drawn to this cocktail because it’s got the same easygoing charm as a cosmo, but it’s cleaner and not as sweet. Sometimes I want a break from a chocolate martini or a lemon drop—this is the one I reach for.

It’s perfect for a laid-back night in, or if I want to serve something familiar that doesn’t feel heavy.

You don’t need any fancy skills or special equipment here. Just follow the steps and you’ll have a crisp martini that looks good in the glass and, honestly, tastes even better.

Classic Cranberry Vodka Martini Cocktail Recipe

What I love about this cocktail is how it balances tart cranberry juice with smooth vodka and that little hint of citrus. A chilled martini glass and a proper shake really bring out those bright flavors—it just feels crisp and refreshing.

Equipment

Here’s what I keep handy when I mix one of these. Having the right tools makes things easier and, yeah, the final drink looks a bit more polished too.

• Cocktail shaker – I always go for a shaker with a strainer; it chills the drink fast.
• Martini glass or cocktail glass – Chilling the glass keeps everything cold longer.
• Jigger – Makes measuring vodka, cranberry juice, and the rest a breeze.
• Bar spoon – Handy for stirring in simple syrup or tweaking flavors.
• Citrus juicer – Fresh lime or lemon juice is just better, honestly.
• Small plate – I use this for sugar if I’m in the mood for a sugar rim.
• Strainer – If my shaker doesn’t have one, I just use a separate strainer.

Ingredients

I stick to simple, fresh stuff that lets the cranberry shine. The vodka’s a clean base, and the citrus and liqueur help keep things balanced.

• Vodka – Plain vodka is classic, but cranberry or flavored vodka adds some depth.
• Cranberry juice – I usually go with sweetened cranberry juice for a smoother sip.
• Orange liqueur – Triple sec or Cointreau—either works.
• Lime juice – Freshly squeezed is best, trust me.
• Simple syrup – Totally optional, only if you want it sweeter.
• Sugar – For the rim, if you’re feeling fancy.
• Fresh cranberries or sugared cranberries – I use these as a garnish, but you do you.
• Orange juice or lemon juice – Sometimes I add a splash for a softer citrus note. Not always, though.

Instructions

I like to keep the steps short and sweet so the drink comes together fast. A good shake and a cold glass really make the difference.

• Chill the martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water for a few minutes.
• Add vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice to the cocktail shaker.
• Add ice and shake firmly for about 15 seconds.
• Empty the martini glass and, if you want, dip the rim in sugar.
• Strain the cocktail into the glass.
• Garnish with fresh cranberries, sugared cranberries, or a twist of lime.

Notes

I’ve found the drink tastes best when the cranberry juice and vodka are balanced. Too much juice gets syrupy; too little can be a bit harsh.

If I use cranberry vodka, I usually skip the simple syrup since the flavored vodka brings its own sweetness. A sugar rim is nice for a sweeter sip, but most of the time I just leave it plain.

Fresh lime juice really is worth the extra step—bottled stuff just tastes flat. If I’m out of limes, I’ll use lemon juice instead, no big deal.

Sometimes I’ll add a splash of orange juice to mellow out the tartness. Cold glasses and plenty of ice when shaking always make the martini more refreshing, in my experience.

Tasting Notes

I notice right away how crisp and clean the vodka tastes. The cranberry juice brings in this tart edge that keeps the spirit from feeling too smooth or bland.

The two blend together in a way that’s honestly pretty refreshing. Not overly sweet, thankfully.

The color? That stands out to me every time. It’s got this deep red shade, almost jewel-like, and it always looks festive—maybe that’s why I can’t help but think of it as a holiday cocktail.

Just looking at it makes the moment feel a little more special when I serve it.

When I take a sip, there are definitely layers.

• First sip: tart cranberry.
• Middle: the vodka’s warmth.
• Finish: a light citrus note from the lime.

I love how versatile this cranberry cocktail is. Sometimes I’ll serve it at a casual get-together, but it doesn’t feel out of place at a more formal dinner, either.

The balance of tart and smooth flavors makes it easy for most people to enjoy. I mean, who really turns this down?

The chilled glass and that slight citrus aroma give it a clean, sharp finish. Each sip feels light—so I keep coming back for more without it ever feeling heavy.