The Vodka Cranberry Cocktail is a refreshing and classic drink that is well-known for its bright red color and delightfully balanced flavor that combines sweet and sour elements. This straightforward yet elegant cocktail, which is frequently referred to as a Cape Codder, is perfect for any occasion, from laid-back get-togethers during the summer to merry celebrations during the holiday season. Numerous people enjoy it because of its crisp flavor and the convenience with which it may be prepared.
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Cocktail / Drink
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Servings: 1
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Calories: ~160 kcal
Ingredients
- Crushed Ice: Enough to fill your glass
- Vodka: 50 ml
- Cranberry Juice: 90 ml
- Orange Juice: 30 ml (adds a bright citrus note)
- Garnish: A lime wedge
- Equipment: Highball glass and a stirrer
Instructions
- Fill the Glass: Take a tall highball glass and fill it to the brim with crushed ice.
- Add Vodka: Pour 50 ml of your favorite vodka over the ice.
- Pour Cranberry Juice: Add 90 ml of cranberry juice to the glass.
- Add Orange Juice: Pour in 30 ml of orange juice to give the drink a touch of sweetness and depth.
- Mix: Use a stirrer or a long straw to gently mix the ingredients together.
- Garnish: Place a lime wedge on the rim of the glass or drop it right in.
- Serve: Add a straw and enjoy your drink immediately while it’s ice-cold!
Vodka Cranberry Sunrise
- Spirit 50 ml Vodka
- Juice 90 ml Cranberry Juice
- Citrus 30 ml Orange Juice
- Ice Crushed ice (to fill glass)
- Garnish Lime wedge
Fill the Glass
Take a tall highball glass and fill it to the brim with crushed ice.
Add Vodka
Pour 50 ml of your favorite vodka over the ice.
Pour the Juices
Add 90 ml cranberry juice followed by 30 ml orange juice for sweetness and depth.
Mix
Use a stirrer or long straw to gently mix the ingredients together.
Garnish & Serve
Place a lime wedge on the rim or drop it in. Add a straw and enjoy immediately while ice-cold!
Conclusion
The crisp and sharp flavor of this Vodka Cranberry Cocktail is sure to leave a lasting impression on anybody who tries it. The addition of a splash of orange juice helps to reduce the sourness of the cranberry, resulting in a sipping experience that is smooth and delicious. Greetings!
FAQs for Vodka Cranberry Sunrise Cocktail
Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of vodka?
Yes, if you want to change the flavor profile of your drink, you can substitute vodka with white rum, gin, or even tequila. With each alcohol, the cocktail will have its own distinct personality, while the cranberry and orange juices will still be able to complement each other effectively.
What’s the difference between this and a Bay Breeze or Sea Breeze?
The beverage known as a Sea Breeze is made using grapefruit juice, whereas a Bay Breeze is made with pineapple juice instead of orange juice. Cranberry and orange juice are combined in this Vodka Cranberry Sunrise, which results in a flavor that is more citrus-forward and sweeter, much like a Madras drink.
Can I make this cocktail in a larger batch for a party?
certainly. In a pitcher, combine all of the ingredients with the exception of the ice, and then multiply the ingredients by the number of servings that are required. When ready to serve, pour the mixture over ice in individual glasses and store it in the refrigerator till needed.
What if I don’t have crushed ice?
It is totally acceptable to use regular ice cubes. Ice that has been crushed will chill the drink more quickly and produce a slightly more diluted and smoother sip, but ice that has been cubed will keep your cocktail colder for a longer period of time.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Yes, all you need to do is leave out the vodka and add fifty milliliters of orange juice. If you want it to feel more like a mocktail, you may also consider adding a splash of sparkling water to it for some extra fizz.
Does the type of cranberry juice matter?
For a drink with a sweeter flavor, use a cocktail made with 100% cranberry juice, and for a drink with a more sour flavor, use unsweetened cranberry juice. You should steer clear of blending cranberry juice with other fruits unless you are interested in experimenting with the flavor.
How can I make the “sunrise” effect more pronounced?
To achieve a gradient effect, slowly pour the orange juice over the back of a spoon. This will cause the juice to settle in the bottom of the container. A stunning layered sunrise effect can also be achieved by adding a small splash of grenadine at the very end of the method. This will cause the formula to sink.
What other garnishes work well with this cocktail?
For an additional touch of sophistication, try adding an orange slice, fresh cranberries on a cocktail pick, a sprig of mint, or even a tiny twist of orange peel. These are all alternatives to using a lime wedge.
How do I adjust the sweetness if it’s too tart or too sweet?
To adjust the level of tartness, you can either use a sweeter cranberry juice blend or add a splash of simple syrup. Adding extra fresh lime juice or using unsweetened cranberry juice is a good option if the sweetness level is too high.
Can I prepare the juices ahead of time?
Pre-mixing the cranberry and orange juices and storing them in the refrigerator for up to twenty-four hours is a possibility. When you are ready to serve, simply pour the vodka over ice and swirl it, and then serve. Party service is significantly sped up as a result of this.
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