A refreshing Cranberry Ginger Spritz Cocktail is perfect for winter gatherings. This drink blends tart cranberry juice with zesty ginger beer and a splash of vodka. The recipe takes just minutes to make and serves up festive flavors in a pretty glass.
The bright red hue and fizzy bubbles make this cocktail look fancy. But it’s simple to mix up for parties or cozy nights at home. The ginger adds a warm, spicy kick that balances the cranberry’s tartness.
You can tweak this basic recipe to suit your tastes. Try using cranberry juice cocktail for a sweeter drink. Or swap the vodka for gin if you prefer. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for an extra festive touch.
Cranberry Ginger Spritz Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon or long-handled spoon
- Highball glass
- Ice
Ingredients
For one cocktail, gather these ingredients:
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz ginger syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 2-3 oz club soda
- Ice
- Fresh cranberries and lime wedge for garnish
To make ginger syrup at home, simmer equal parts sugar and water with sliced fresh ginger for 15 minutes. Strain and cool before using.
Instructions
Follow these steps to mix up your cranberry ginger spritz:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add cranberry juice, ginger syrup, and lime juice to the shaker.
- Shake well for 10-15 seconds.
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Strain the shaken mixture into the glass.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a lime wedge.
Serve right away while the drink is cold and bubbly.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Cranberry Ginger Spritz Cocktail offers a lively mix of flavors. Its taste is crisp and refreshing. The drink has a bright red color from the cranberry juice.
The first sip brings a tart cranberry taste. This is quickly followed by a spicy ginger kick. The ginger adds warmth and depth to the drink.
Bubbles from the sparkling wine or soda water create a light, fizzy texture. This helps balance the stronger flavors. The cocktail is not too sweet, making it easy to enjoy.
A hint of citrus from lemon or lime juice adds a zesty note. This brightens the overall taste. The alcohol gives a gentle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
This cocktail is best served cold. Ice helps keep the flavors crisp and the drink refreshing.
Substitute
Can’t find cranberry juice or ginger beer? No problem. This cocktail can be made with other tasty ingredients.
For the cranberry juice, try pomegranate or tart cherry juice instead. These offer a similar tangy flavor and deep red color.
To replace ginger beer, use ginger ale mixed with a splash of lime juice. This gives a similar spicy-sweet taste.
No fresh rosemary? Mint leaves make a nice garnish too. Or skip the herb altogether.
Here’s a quick substitution guide:
- Cranberry juice → Pomegranate or tart cherry juice
- Ginger beer → Ginger ale + lime juice
- Vodka → Gin or white rum
- Rosemary → Mint or omit
Remember, substitutions may change the flavor slightly. But they’ll still result in a yummy drink.