A Cranberry Whiskey Collins is a simple, tasty drink that blends the sweet-tart kick of cranberry with the mellow warmth of whiskey. It’s easy to make and perfect for a quiet evening—or, honestly, whenever I want to surprise friends with something a little different.
I really like how the cranberry juice gives a bright, playful twist to the classic collins. If you’re curious about trying a new cocktail, here’s my go-to recipe.
Cranberry Whiskey Collins Cocktail Recipe
You don’t need fancy gadgets or rare ingredients for a Cranberry Whiskey Collins. Just some kitchen basics, your favorite whiskey, cranberry juice, and a fresh lemon.
Equipment
- Collins glass or highball glass—these just feel right for this drink.
- Cocktail shaker—especially useful if you’re using pure cranberry juice and simple syrup.
- Jigger or measuring spoons—helps keep things balanced.
- Bar spoon or just a regular spoon—for stirring.
- Ice—cubes are my go-to for chilling everything fast.
- Strainer—if you want to keep pulp or seeds out.
- Knife and cutting board—for slicing up lemons or garnishes.
- Small bowl—handy for holding cranberries or fruit while you prep.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey (rye, bourbon, or whatever you like)
- 1 oz cranberry juice (pure for tartness, cranberry cocktail juice if you want it sweeter)
- 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (or cranberry simple syrup for extra flavor)
- Club soda or sparkling water (enough to top off your glass)
- Ice cubes
-
Garnishes:
- Lemon wheel or slice
- Fresh or frozen cranberries
- Rosemary sprig for a little flair
- Optional: dash of bitters, maple syrup, a sprinkle of sugar, or whole spices if you’re feeling creative
Instructions
- Fill your glass about halfway with ice cubes.
- In a shaker, combine whiskey, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake for about 10 seconds—just enough to chill it well.
- Strain into your glass over fresh ice.
- Top with club soda or sparkling water until it’s almost full.
- Give it a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel, a few cranberries, and maybe a rosemary sprig.
- For more cranberry punch, swap in cranberry simple syrup.
- Tweak the syrup or lemon juice if you want it sweeter or more tart.
Notes
Pure cranberry juice makes things tangy and bold. Cranberry cocktail juice, though, is definitely sweeter.
Frozen cranberries are great for garnish—they keep the drink cold too. Sometimes I use maple syrup instead of simple syrup, which gives a richer, almost spiced vibe.
A couple drops of bitters or a pinch of cinnamon can add a nice earthy note. If I’m feeling festive, I might sugar the lemon slice or rim the glass.
A rosemary sprig looks cool and smells amazing with every sip. Rye or bourbon work best for me, but use whatever whiskey you love.
Equipment
- Bar spoon or stirrer
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl for garnishes
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey rye or bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice pure or cranberry cocktail
- 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup or cranberry simple syrup
- 2 –3 oz club soda or sparkling water to top off
- Ice cubes enough to fill glass halfway
- 1 lemon wheel or slice for garnish
- 3 –4 fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish
- 1 rosemary sprig optional garnish
- Optional: dash of bitters or pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- Shake for 10 seconds to chill and mix.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Top with club soda or sparkling water.
Tasting Notes
First sip? The tartness from the cranberry juice jumps out—super crisp and refreshing.
The whiskey brings a nice warmth, balancing that sharp cranberry. I like how the simple syrup’s sweetness smooths things out, but doesn’t go overboard.
That fizz from the club soda? It just makes the drink feel lighter and more fun.
Here’s what I notice most:
- Tartness: All cranberry, no hiding it
- Sweetness: Gentle, not too much
- Fizz: Lively, gives it a lift
- Calories: Not as heavy as creamy cocktails
This one’s easy to sip solo or with food. It feels modern and unfussy, which I love. Sometimes I’ll add more club soda to lighten it up even more—makes it last longer and keeps it bright.
I can taste every layer—nothing muddled, just clean, refreshing flavors that keep me coming back for another sip.
Must Have Ingredients
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Substitute
Sometimes I don’t have whiskey on hand. I’ll grab gin or vodka instead.
Both work well in a Cranberry Collins. The flavor shifts a bit depending on what you use.
Gin: Adds a more botanical vibe, sort of like a classic Tom Collins.
Vodka: Keeps things clean and simple, so the cranberry really pops.
Making a mocktail for friends who don’t drink? I just skip the booze and pour in some sparkling water or maybe a citrus soda. It’s honestly just as refreshing.
Equipment
- Highball glass
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Stirrer
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin or vodka (if not using whiskey)
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz lime juice (or lemon juice if you’re feeling it)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice.
- Pour in the spirit, cranberry juice, lime or lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Give it a gentle stir.
- Top off with sparkling water or soda.
- Toss in a lime wedge or a few cranberries for garnish.
Honestly, I like to experiment with different combos. Keeps things interesting and, who knows, you might discover a new favorite along the way.
