Here is my favorite holiday cocktail recipe – a White Cranberry Vodka Christmas drink that combines smooth vodka, white cranberry juice, and a touch of lime for a festive and refreshing sipper.
This cocktail has become my go-to for holiday parties and Christmas gatherings. I love making a big batch so everyone can help themselves throughout the evening. Nothing gets people in the holiday spirit quite like a pretty white cocktail garnished with fresh cranberries, right?
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Vodka Cocktail
- Quick preparation – This cocktail comes together in just 5 minutes – perfect for when guests arrive or you want a quick holiday drink.
- Simple ingredients – With just a few basic liquors and mixers, you can create this elegant drink without stocking a full bar.
- Perfect for parties – The white color and red cranberry garnish make this cocktail look festive and sophisticated at any holiday gathering.
- Balanced flavor – The combination of tart cranberry, sweet elderflower, and bright lemon creates a perfectly balanced drink that’s not too sweet or too strong.
What Kind of Vodka Should I Use?
For this festive cocktail, you’ll want to specifically use lemon vodka, which brings a bright citrus note that regular vodka just can’t match.
If you can’t find lemon vodka at your local store, you can use plain vodka and add an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice to achieve a similar effect.
When choosing your vodka, stick to mid-range brands like Absolut, Stolichnaya, or Ketel One – they’re smooth enough to let the other flavors shine through without breaking the bank.
Just remember that while top-shelf vodkas are great for martinis, they’re not necessary for mixed drinks where other flavors take center stage.
Options for Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Here are some simple swaps you can try with this cocktail:
- Lemon vodka: Regular vodka works fine – just add an extra 1/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice. You could also use citrus vodka or even gin for a different twist.
- Elderflower liqueur: If you can’t find elderflower liqueur (St. Germain), try using simple syrup mixed with a tiny splash of pear juice, or use Lillet Blanc. Just note that each substitute will give a slightly different flavor profile.
- White cranberry juice: Regular cranberry juice can be used, though it will change the color of your cocktail. White grape juice is another option, but reduce it to 3/4 ounce since it’s sweeter.
- Fresh lemon juice: This is best fresh, but if needed, lime juice can work too. Just avoid bottled lemon juice as it won’t give you the same bright, fresh taste.
- Cranberries for decoration: Feel free to swap these with raspberries, small strawberries, or even a lemon twist. The garnish is mostly for looks, so get creative!
- Sugar rim: Try coconut flakes or crushed candy canes for a festive touch. You can even mix the sugar with some edible glitter for extra sparkle.
| Preparation Time | 5-10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0-5 minutes |
| Total Time | 5-15 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Ingredients
- 3 cranberries, for decoration
- 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar, for rim
- 1 1/2 ounces lemon vodka
- 1/2 ounce elderflower liqueur
- 1 ounce white cranberry juice
- 1/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering all the required ingredients: 3 cranberries, 1/2 tablespoon white granulated sugar, 1 1/2 ounces citrus vodka, 1/2 ounce elderflower liqueur, 1 ounce white cranberry juice, and 1/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Ensure your cocktail glass is chilled ahead of time for the best experience.
Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Garnish
Skewer the 3 cranberries and dust them with 1/2 tablespoon of white granulated sugar.
Gently tap off any excess sugar to avoid clumping.
Set the sugared cranberry skewer aside for garnishing the cocktail later.
Step 3: Mix the Cocktail
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Pour in 1 1/2 ounces of citrus vodka, 1/2 ounce elderflower liqueur, 1 ounce white cranberry juice, and 1/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Secure the lid and shake well to thoroughly mix and chill the ingredients.
Step 4: Strain and Serve
Strain the mixed cocktail into the pre-chilled cocktail glass.
Carefully garnish the drink with the prepared cranberry skewer.
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing, elegantly garnished cocktail.