This refreshing Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is perfect for hot days or fun gatherings! It’s a simple mix of tangy cranberry juice and smooth vodka, topped with some fizzy soda.
You can serve it over ice and enjoy the bubbles. I like to add a slice of lime for a zesty twist. Trust me, it’s a drink everyone will love—even your friends who claim they don’t like vodka! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Any good-quality vodka works well here. If you want to make it lighter, try using a flavored vodka like citrus or berry for an extra kick.
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice is best for a tangy punch, but you can use sweetened juice for a milder flavor. For a substitute, consider pomegranate juice for a different twist.
Club Soda or Sparkling Water: This adds the fizz! If you’re looking to cut down on calories, soda water is a great zero-calorie option. Lemon-lime soda can add sweetness if you prefer a sweeter drink.
Fresh Cranberries: They’re great for garnish, but if you can’t find them, you can use dried cranberries as a substitute. Just remember, they won’t have the same freshness!
How Do You Make This Drink Refreshing and Delicious?
Making the perfect Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is all about balancing flavors and achieving that refreshing feel. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with plenty of ice cubes. This keeps your drink nice and chilled.
- Add the vodka first. Mixing it with juice and soda afterward helps preserve the bubbles.
- Gently stir the drink to keep the fizz from fading too quickly.
- Garnish as you like! Fresh rosemary adds a unique herbal scent that complements the drink beautifully.
- Don’t skip the lime wedge! A splash of citrus brightens the entire beverage and adds a nice zing.
Cranberry Vodka Spritzer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 3 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 2 oz club soda or sparkling water
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh rosemary sprig (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedge (optional, for garnish and a splash of extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing drink takes just about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s the perfect quick and easy beverage for any casual gathering or a relaxing night at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by filling a highball or tall glass with ice cubes. This will keep your spritzer cold and refreshing.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Pour in 2 ounces of vodka first, followed by 3 ounces of cranberry juice. This combination gives you a nice blend of flavors right from the start.
3. Add the Fizz:
Top off your drink with 2 ounces of club soda or sparkling water. The fizz is what makes this drink so refreshing!
4. Stir Gently:
Using a spoon or a straw, gently stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to stir too hard—this keeps the bubbles from going flat.
5. Garnish Your Drink:
Add a few fresh cranberries to the drink for a pop of color. If you’d like, you can also add a sprig of fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch.
6. Add a Splash of Lime (Optional):
If you’re a fan of citrus, squeeze a lime wedge over the drink before dropping it in as a garnish. This adds a zesty, refreshing note.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is ready to enjoy! Serve it right away for the best taste, and watch your friends refresh themselves with this tasty, bubbly drink!
Can I Use Other Types of Juice Instead of Cranberry?
Absolutely! You can substitute cranberry juice with other juices like pomegranate, raspberry, or even a mix of berry juices for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that some juices may be sweeter than cranberry juice.
What Kind of Vodka Should I Use?
Any good-quality vodka works well, but using a flavored vodka (like citrus or berry) can add an interesting twist to your spritzer. Just adjust the sweetness of your juice accordingly!
Can I Make This Drink Ahead of Time?
While it’s best fresh for the fizz, you can prep the vodka and cranberry juice in advance and mix in the soda just before serving to keep the bubbles intact.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover prepared drink, it’s best to consume it right away as the carbonation will go flat. However, you can store leftover vodka and cranberry juice in the fridge for up to 2 days for later use—just mix with fresh soda before serving!