Sparkling Cranberry Vodka Spritzer: The Ultimate Festive Holiday Cocktail Recipe
Get ready to infuse your holiday gatherings with a touch of effervescent magic! Our festive cranberry cocktail series proudly presents the show-stopping Vodka Cranberry Spritzer. This dazzling drink is more than just a cocktail; it’s a celebration in a glass, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season with its vibrant colors and lively bubbles.
This exquisite cocktail is a symphony of flavors and textures. It artfully combines the crisp effervescence of Prosecco with the smooth warmth of quality vodka, the delightful tartness of cranberry juice, and the bright, citrusy sweetness of fresh orange juice. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating a perfectly balanced and incredibly refreshing drink that’s ideal for any holiday occasion, from intimate family dinners to lively Christmas parties.
But what truly elevates this Spritzer to a festive masterpiece is its stunning presentation. The rim of the glass is adorned with a custom sugar blend, sparkling with crystal sugar and shimmering pink edible glitter, creating an enchanting “candy cane” effect that looks like it was plucked straight from a winter wonderland. The finishing touches are just as thoughtful: fresh, ruby-red cranberries float playfully, a vibrant orange slice adds a pop of color and citrus aroma, and a sprig of aromatic rosemary evokes the crisp, natural beauty of a wintry forest, right in your hand.
Can you imagine a more festive and inviting drink to welcome your guests or to simply enjoy during a cozy evening by the fire? This Vodka Cranberry Spritzer isn’t just a beverage; it’s an experience, a sparkling beacon of holiday cheer that promises to delight all who sip it.
Why This Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is Your New Holiday Favorite
If you’ve been a longtime follower, you’ll know that spritz cocktails hold a special place in my heart. There’s an undeniable elegance and celebratory feel that the bubbly Prosecco brings to every sip, transforming an ordinary drink into something truly special. On my blog, you’ll discover a diverse array of spritzer recipes designed for every season and taste, from the light and refreshing summery Melon Spritz to the beloved classic Austrian White Wine Spritzer, not to mention the ever-popular Hugo Spritz. Whether you’re planning a serene winter evening or dreaming of balmy summer nights, there’s a spritzer waiting for you.
However, this particular Vodka Cranberry Spritzer? It embodies pure Christmas in a glass. Close your eyes and picture the scene: a warm fireplace crackling softly, the soothing sounds of Bing Crosby crooning “White Christmas” in the background, and a plate of my delectable leftover egg yolk cookies or a luxurious Christmas trifle within reach. This cocktail seamlessly adds that quintessential touch of festive magic, whether you’re hosting a grand holiday soiree or simply indulging in a quiet moment of self-care.
This recipe is designed to be effortlessly chic and incredibly easy to assemble, ensuring you spend less time mixing and more time making joyful memories. Its vibrant red hue, accentuated by the shimmering pink rim and fresh garnishes, makes it an instant visual highlight on any holiday table. Plus, the delightful blend of sweet, tart, and bubbly flavors appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So, let’s raise a glass high to the most wonderful time of the year—a season overflowing with joy, sparkling glitter, and the irresistible taste of cranberries. Are you ready to create some unforgettable holiday magic? Let’s dive into the recipe and stir up some cheer! 🎄
🥘 Ingredients for Your Festive Spritzer
Crafting the perfect Cranberry Vodka Spritzer starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component contributes uniquely to the drink’s overall balance and festive appeal. Here’s what you’ll need to create this holiday masterpiece:
- Vodka – We recommend unflavored vodka to allow the fruit flavors to shine. However, for an even more intense cranberry experience, feel free to switch to a quality cranberry-flavored vodka. A good quality vodka ensures a smooth finish.
- Cranberry Juice – Opt for a 100% cranberry juice or a cranberry juice cocktail. Pure cranberry juice will lend a tarter profile, while a cocktail blend might offer more sweetness. Choose what best suits your preference for sweetness and tartness.
- Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed orange juice will always provide the best, brightest flavor. If using store-bought, select a high-quality, not-from-concentrate option for optimal taste.
- Prosecco – This delightful Italian sparkling wine is the heart of any spritzer. Hailing from the picturesque village of Prosecco and specific regions in Italy, it carries the prestigious “Controlled Designation of Origin” (D.O.C.) or “Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin” (D.O.C.G.) status. This ensures its authenticity, quality, and rich heritage. Prosecco provides the essential crispness and lively bubbles that make this cocktail so refreshing. Choose a Brut or Extra Dry for a balanced sweetness.
- Garnish – The garnishes are not just for looks; they enhance the aroma and overall experience!
- Orange Slice: Adds a burst of citrus aroma and a vibrant color contrast.
- Fresh Cranberries: Their tartness and festive red hue are simply perfect for the holidays.
- Rosemary Sprig: Introduces a subtle, pine-like fragrance that beautifully complements the cranberry and creates a “winter forest” aesthetic.
- Edible Pink Glitter & Granulated Sugar Rim: This magical touch makes the drink truly sparkle and adds a hint of sweetness to every sip.
For precise quantities and measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.
Tips for Choosing Your Ingredients:
- Vodka Quality: A mid-range vodka is usually sufficient as the flavors are mixed, but avoid anything too harsh.
- Juice Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, opt for unsweetened cranberry juice and adjust with a touch of simple syrup if desired.
- Prosecco Type: While Brut Prosecco is commonly used, an Extra Dry or even a Dry (sweeter) Prosecco can be used based on your preference.
- Freshness of Garnish: Always use fresh rosemary and vibrant, firm cranberries for the best presentation and aroma.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Cranberry Vodka Spritzer
Making this festive cocktail is incredibly simple and quick, ensuring you can whip up a batch in minutes. Follow these easy steps to create a dazzling drink that will impress all your holiday guests:
Step 1: Prepare the Festive Sugar Rim
On a small, flat plate, combine about 2 tablespoons of fine granulated sugar with ½ teaspoon of pink edible glitter. Use a fork to gently mix them together until the glitter is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This sparkling blend will create a beautiful, enchanting rim for your glass.
Step 2: Rim the Glass
Take a fresh orange slice – choose one that is as thick as you desire your sugar rim to be. Run the juicy side of the orange slice along the edge of your serving glass. This will moisten the rim, allowing the sugar mixture to adhere. Then, gently dip and twist the rim of the glass into the pink sugar mixture, ensuring a beautiful, sparkling candy cane-like effect. Lightly tap the glass to remove any excess sugar, leaving a neat, glittering edge.
Step 3: Add the Ice
Once your glass is perfectly rimmed, drop a generous handful of ice cubes into it. This will keep your cocktail frosty and refreshing from the first sip to the last, without diluting the flavors too quickly.
Step 4: Build Your Cocktail
Now it’s time to assemble the delicious layers of your spritzer. Carefully pour in the recommended amount of vodka, followed by the tart cranberry juice, and then the sweet orange juice. To complete the drink, slowly top it all off with a festive splash of chilled Prosecco. The sparkling wine will gently mix with the other ingredients, creating a beautiful layered effect before stirring.
Step 5: Mix and Garnish
Using a slender bar spoon, give the drink a gentle stir to thoroughly combine all the delightful flavors without losing too much of the Prosecco’s effervescence. The final flourish is the garnish: delicately place a fresh sprig of rosemary, a vibrant slice of orange, and a few bright, ruby-red cranberries on top of the drink. These not only add visual appeal but also release wonderful aromas with every sip. Cheers to a truly festive and sparkling holiday experience! 🎄
🍽 Essential Equipment for Your Spritzer
While this cocktail is simple to make, having the right tools can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need:
- Plate & Fork: For preparing and applying the festive sugar rim. A small plate is ideal for this.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing your orange garnish and any other fresh ingredients.
- Serving Glass: Choose a beautiful highball glass, wine glass, or even a champagne flute to showcase the drink’s vibrant color and sparkle.
- Bar Spoon: A long-handled spoon is perfect for gently stirring the cocktail without disturbing the ice or losing too much fizz.
- Measuring Tools / Jigger: For accurate measurement of vodka and juices, ensuring a balanced and consistently delicious cocktail every time.
Tips for Success and Delicious Variations
This Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is fantastic as is, but here are some tips and variations to make it even more perfect for your taste and occasion:
- Make it a Batch Cocktail: For parties, pre-mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and orange juice in a pitcher. Store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, pour the mix into individual ice-filled, rimmed glasses and top with Prosecco. This saves time and ensures consistent flavor.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Easily transform this into a family-friendly mocktail! Simply omit the vodka and replace Prosecco with sparkling cranberry juice, ginger ale, or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. The sugar rim and fresh garnishes will still make it feel special.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a splash of simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until sugar dissolves, then cooled) to your cocktail before topping with Prosecco. For a tarter drink, use unsweetened cranberry juice.
- Spice it Up: Infuse your vodka with cinnamon sticks or star anise for a few hours (or days) for an added layer of holiday spice. Alternatively, add a dash of orange bitters to the finished drink.
- Alternative Garnishes: Get creative! Try a twist of orange peel, lime wedges, sugared cranberries (fresh cranberries rolled in simple syrup then sugar), or even a small sprig of fresh mint for a different aroma.
- Different Sparkling Wine: While Prosecco is classic, you can experiment with Cava or even a dry Champagne for a different sparkling base. Each will bring its own unique subtle notes.
Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings
This Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of holiday events. It’s light enough to be served as an aperitif, yet festive enough to complement your holiday meal.
- Appetizers: Pair it with classic holiday appetizers like mini quiches, cheese and cracker boards, bruschetta, or anything with a touch of sweetness or saltiness to balance the drink.
- Main Course: Its light and crisp nature makes it a great accompaniment to turkey, ham, or roasted chicken, as it cleanses the palate without overpowering the food.
- Desserts: As mentioned, it’s wonderful with sweet treats like my leftover egg yolk cookies or a luxurious Christmas trifle. It also pairs beautifully with fruit tarts or white chocolate desserts.
- Occasions: Perfect for Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, festive brunches, or simply a relaxed evening at home enjoying the holiday spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cranberry Vodka Spritzers
Here are some common questions you might have when preparing this delightful holiday cocktail:
- Q: Can I use different juices?
A: Absolutely! While cranberry and orange are classic holiday flavors, you can experiment with pomegranate juice, cherry juice, or even a splash of pineapple for a tropical twist. Adjust sweetness as needed. - Q: What if I don’t have pink edible glitter?
A: No problem! You can use plain granulated sugar for the rim, or mix it with a pinch of red food coloring (ensure it’s food-safe and mixes well) to achieve a festive pink or red hue. - Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the vodka, cranberry juice, and orange juice mixture a few hours in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. However, only add the Prosecco and ice just before serving to maintain maximum fizz and freshness. The sugar rim should also be applied just before serving to prevent it from dissolving. - Q: Is there a way to make it less strong?
A: Yes, you can reduce the amount of vodka or increase the amount of cranberry and orange juice. Alternatively, top it off with more Prosecco or even a splash of sparkling water for a lighter version. - Q: What kind of glass should I use?
A: While a highball glass is classic, any tall glass, a wine glass, or even a festive coupe can work well. The goal is to show off the beautiful color and garnishes.
Other Sparkling Spritz(er) Recipes for You to Try
If you love the effervescence of this Cranberry Vodka Spritzer, be sure to explore more spritzer recipes from my collection. There’s a bubbly delight for every mood and season:
- White Wine Spritzer: A timeless classic, perfect for a light and refreshing sip.
- Strawberry Spritz: Sweet, fruity, and vibrant – a taste of summer in a glass.
- Lavender Spritz: Elegant and aromatic, offering a sophisticated floral note.
- Lavender Spritzer {with Prosecco}: The Prosecco version of the lovely lavender spritz.
- Aperol Spritz: The iconic Italian aperitif, bittersweet and endlessly popular.
- Cranberry Gin Spritz: A festive cousin, perfect if you prefer gin to vodka.
- Cranberry Aperol Spritz: A delightful twist on the classic Aperol, with a holiday cranberry touch.
- Winter Aperol Spritz: Warm spices and festive flavors elevate this spritz for colder months.
- Watermelon Spritzer: Pure summer refreshment, juicy and light.
- Watermelon Spritz {with Prosecco}: Elevate your watermelon drink with some bubbly.
- Hugo Spritz: Elderflower, mint, and lime make this a wonderfully aromatic and refreshing choice.
If you make this sparkling Cranberry Vodka Spritzer, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please let me know how you liked it by giving it a ★★★★★ star rating and leaving a comment below. Your feedback means the world and helps others discover delicious recipes! This would be awesome! You can also sign up for our Newsletter to get weekly recipe inspiration delivered straight to your inbox. Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest or Instagram and share your festive creation with me. Just tag me @combinegoodflavors and hashtag #combinegoodflavors, so I don’t miss a single one of your delightful drinks!
📖 Recipe: Jolly Cranberry Vodka Spritzer
Jolly Cranberry Vodka Spritzer
Nora
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Equipment
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Plate & Fork
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Cutting board & Sharp knife
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Serving Glass
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Bar spoon
-
Measuring tools / Jigger
Ingredients
Glass Rim
- Granulated sugar
- Edible pink glitter
Cocktail
- Cubed ice
- 2 oz Vodka unflavored – for a more intense cranberry flavor, you can switch to a cranberry vodka instead.
- 1 oz Cranberry juice
- 1 oz Orange juice
- Prosecco to top
Garnish
- Orange slice
- Cranberries
- Rosemary twig
Instructions
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Combine Granulated sugar and Edible pink glitter on a plate. Mix with a fork until well blended.Granulated sugar, Edible pink glitter
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Use a fresh orange slice to moisten the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into the sugar mixture, turning it to coat evenly. Tap off any excess sugar.
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Fill the glass with Cubed ice.Cubed ice
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Pour in 2 oz Vodka, 1 oz Cranberry juice, and 1 oz Orange juice. Top with Prosecco.2 oz Vodka, 1 oz Cranberry juice, 1 oz Orange juice, Prosecco
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Stir gently with a bar spoon to mix the flavors. Garnish with a Rosemary twig, an Orange slice, and Cranberries. Enjoy the festive sparkle!Orange slice, Cranberries, Rosemary twig
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
⛑️ Food Safety Guidelines
Ensuring food safety is paramount, even when crafting cocktails. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Temperature Control: If preparing any homemade syrups or fresh juice mixes, ensure they are stored at a safe temperature (below 40°F / 4°C).
- Cleanliness: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food and drinks. Ensure all equipment, including glasses, cutting boards, and knives, are clean and sanitized.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, unblemished fruit for garnishes. Wash all produce thoroughly before cutting.
- Storage: While cocktails are best enjoyed fresh, if you pre-mix juice bases, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for no more than 1-2 days.
- Responsible Consumption: Always drink responsibly and ensure you know the alcohol content of your cocktails.
For further comprehensive information on safe food handling practices, always refer to trusted resources such as the Safe Food Handling – FDA guidelines.