Vodka Cranberry Cocktail | Refreshing and Simple

You really can’t go wrong with this Vodka Cranberry Cocktail! It’s light and refreshing and super easy to make. (And dare I call it healthy?)

Vodka Cranberry Cocktail 2 glasses horizontal

Well, healthy might be a bit over the top, but real cranberry juice really is loaded with antioxidants and can support your digestive health. So I’m going with healthy-ish

Vodka Cranberry Cocktail 2 glasses horizontal

And this vodka cranberry cocktail is a cinch to make. With only a few ingredients you probably already have on hand, you can whip one of these up for yourself or guests in no time at all.

Ingredients in this Recipe

  • Cranberry Juice – I prefer pure unsweetened cranberry juice for that tang. But it is pretty tart so you may want to add a dash of honey to sweeten it up a bit. (See full recipe below.)
  • Vodka – This is the star of the show so pick a good one.
  • Lime Juice – Fresh squeezed is best. And be sure to use a lime wedge for garnish.
  • Orange Juice – Fresh squeezed is best.
refreshing cocktail ingredient list

How to Make a Vodka Cranberry Cocktail

Grab a highball glass (here are the ones I like), fill it 2/3 full with ice. Add vodka, cranberry juice, a splash of lime juice and a splash of orange juice (FULL RECIPE BELOW). Stir and garnish with a lime wedge. Drink and enjoy!

Pouring cranberry juice in a vodka cranberry drink

The splash of lime and orange really make this drink so don’t omit that if you want that nice tart, refreshing taste. You will find some bartenders who skip that step (’cause they’re being lazy), but then your drink will taste like basic cranberry juice since the vodka doesn’t really add much flavor.

Cranberry Vodka cocktail with orange juice pouring

What is a Vodka Cran Called?

I’ve heard people ask their bartenders What is a Vodka Cran Called and I’m amazed at how few of them actually know the answer – The Cape Cod! Some believe the classic version always has the splash of lime and orange juice, while others insist on just vodka and cranberry juice. (You already know my opinion on that!)

But whatever you call it, this Vodka Cranberry Cocktail is the perfect drink for almost any occasion. It’s great for sitting by the pool on a warm summer day or gathering around a crackling campfire or even curled up with a good book on a cool fall or spring evening.

And you can adjust the amount of alcohol to your liking. This recipe calls for 1 1/2 ounces of vodka, but feel free to bump that up if you’re looking for a stronger cranberry cocktail. (Here’s a good article outline how strong to make drinks.)

Vodka Cranberry Cocktail overhead vertical

So whether this is your first attempt at making a cocktail (this is a great one to start with!) or you’re a seasoned expert, you can’t go wrong with this Vodka Cranberry Cocktail. Quick, easy, and refreshing!

And if you’re more of a beer person, check out my new post on How to Make a Black and Tan Beer! It’s easier than you think!

Here are some other cocktails you might like:

Tools I used for this cocktail recipe:

Vodka Cranberry Cocktail 2 glasses horizontal

Cranberry Vodka Cocktail

Yield: 1 drink
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

The Vodka Cranberry Cocktail is a simple, quick and easy cranberry drink to make for almost any occasion. Light, refreshing and a perfect beginner's drink!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 ounces vodka
  • 4 ounces cranberry juice
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice (juice from 1/2 small lime)
  • 1/2 ounce orange juice
  • ice
  • lime wedge for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a highball glass 2/3 full with ice.
  2. Add all ingredients except the lime wedge, stir well and garnish with lime wedge.

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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 181Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 10mgCarbohydrates: 23gFiber: 2gSugar: 14gProtein: 1g

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