Cranberry Whiskey Fizz Cocktail Recipe

When I’m in the mood for something simple but still a bit classy, I usually end up making a whiskey cocktail. The boldness of whiskey mixed with tart cranberry just hits a refreshing balance that honestly works any time of year.

This Cranberry Whiskey Fizz Cocktail? It’s crisp, a little sweet, and there’s just enough sparkle to keep things interesting.

What I love is how easy it is—just a handful of ingredients and no need for any fancy gadgets. You can make it with whatever you’ve got at home, and the flavor is classic but still feels fresh.

The fizz gives it a light finish, so it’s great for a get-together or just unwinding after a long day.

Cranberry Whiskey Fizz Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this drink because it’s got that nice tart cranberry punch, mellowed out by smooth whiskey and a bubbly kick. Tossing in some rosemary or mint on top makes it look like you put in way more effort than you actually did.

Equipment

• Highball glass or Collins glass for serving
• Cocktail shaker with strainer
• Mixing spoon for stirring
• Measuring jigger for accurate pours
• Citrus juicer for fresh lemon or lime juice
• Small saucepan if you’re making simple syrup at home
• Ice cube tray to keep plenty of ice handy

Honestly, I just keep these tools within reach so I can throw the drink together fast. The shaker’s clutch for blending everything smoothly, and a good glass keeps the fizz going strong.

Ingredients

• 2 oz whiskey
• 2 oz cranberry juice (I like unsweetened for a sharper taste)
• 1 oz simple syrup
• ½ oz lemon juice or lime juice
• 3 oz club soda, sparkling water, or ginger ale
• Ice cubes
• Garnishes: fresh cranberries, rosemary sprig, lime wedge, or mint leaves

If I’m craving something sweeter, I’ll go with ginger ale, but sparkling water keeps things lighter. Fresh cranberries and herbs? They make the drink look fancy with almost zero effort.

Instructions

• Fill your shaker with ice cubes.
• Pour in whiskey, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
• Shake it up until it feels chilled.
• Strain into a highball or Collins glass packed with fresh ice.
• Top with club soda, sparkling water, or ginger ale—whatever you’re feeling.
• Give it a gentle stir.
• Add your choice of garnish: cranberries, rosemary, lime, or mint.

I always add the fizzy stuff last so the bubbles stay lively. A quick stir is enough—don’t overdo it or you’ll lose that sparkle.

Notes

Sometimes I swap in ginger ale for a sweeter vibe, or just stick with sparkling water if I want it lighter. If I’m using unsweetened cranberry juice, I’ll sneak in a bit more simple syrup.

Fresh rosemary adds this piney aroma, while mint keeps things extra cool. I actually like mixing both when friends are over—it just looks and smells so fresh.

If I want a brighter citrus kick, I’ll squeeze in a little more lemon or lime right before I top it with soda. And honestly, piling in the ice is key—the colder, the better, since it helps the fizz last until you hit the bottom of the glass.

Tasting Notes

So, right off the bat, the first sip hits with this sharp cranberry note—crisp, a little tart, but not too much. There’s a gentle warmth from the whiskey that sneaks in, kind of smoothing things out without making it feel heavy at all.

The fizz? Honestly, it’s what keeps the whole thing feeling light and fun. I really appreciate how those bubbles make the flavors pop instead of letting them go dull.

Whenever I pour this at holiday gatherings, the color alone gets people talking—it’s just so bright and festive in the glass. Friends usually point out that blend of sweet and tart, and honestly, it’s got a way of being both simple and really welcoming.

There’s this subtle citrus thing happening in the background, which is great because it stops the drink from getting too rich or cloying. The finish is smooth, and there’s a mild sweetness that just sort of hangs around—not in a bad way, either.

Key Flavor Notes:

• Cranberry: tart and crisp
• Whiskey: warm and smooth
• Citrus: light and fresh
• Fizz: bright and bubbly