Cranberry and apple cider create a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors in this festive cocktail.
The combination of cranberry juice, apple cider, and vodka makes for a crisp and refreshing drink that’s ideal for fall and winter gatherings.
This simple recipe can be easily scaled up to serve a crowd at parties or holiday events.
The vibrant red color of this cocktail adds a cheerful touch to any table setting.
Garnished with fresh cranberries and apple slices, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.
The recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes by adjusting the ratio of cranberry juice to apple cider or by using flavored vodka for an extra twist.
Cranberry Apple Cider Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher
- Wooden spoon
- Ice bucket
- Cocktail glasses
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 1 cup vodka
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 apples sliced
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- Cinnamon sticks for garnish
- Ice
Pick tart cranberry juice and a good quality vodka.
Instructions
- Pour apple cider and cranberry juice into the pitcher.
- Add vodka and lime juice. Stir well.
- Put in sliced apples and cranberries.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Fill glasses with ice.
- Pour cocktail over ice.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice.
- Let the drink chill so the flavors can mix.
- Serve it cold over ice for the best taste.
Notes
Tasting Notes
This cranberry apple cider cocktail offers a delightful blend of flavors. The tartness of cranberry juice balances nicely with the sweetness of apple cider. A hint of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the drink.
The cocktail has a crisp, refreshing taste.
Its fruity aroma entices the senses before the first sip. The flavors meld together smoothly on the palate.
Texture-wise, the drink is light and easy to sip.
It has a pleasant mouthfeel without being too thick or syrupy. The cocktail leaves a clean, slightly tart aftertaste.
This cocktail pairs well with fall dishes. It complements foods like roasted turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. The drink also works as a standalone aperitif or after-dinner sipper.
For best results, serve chilled or over ice.
Garnish with fresh cranberries or a cinnamon stick for added visual appeal and aroma.
Substitute
If cranberries or apple cider aren’t available, there are other tasty options for this cocktail.
Pomegranate juice works well in place of cranberry juice. It has a similar tart flavor and deep red color.
For the apple cider, regular apple juice can be used instead.
The alcohol can also be swapped.
Rum or whiskey make good stand-ins for vodka. Non-alcoholic versions are easy to make too.
Just leave out the vodka and add extra juice or sparkling water.
Spices can be changed up as well.
Instead of cinnamon sticks, try adding whole cloves or star anise. Ground nutmeg or allspice sprinkled on top gives a nice aroma.
Here’s a quick substitution guide:
- Cranberry juice → Pomegranate juice
- Apple cider → Apple juice
- Vodka → Rum, whiskey, or non-alcoholic
- Cinnamon → Cloves, star anise, nutmeg
The key is keeping the sweet-tart fruit flavors and warm spices. With these swaps, the cocktail will still have a festive fall or winter feel.