PREP TIME 5 min
Learning how to make a Vodka Cranberry is super easy. With just two ingredients, there’s not a lot that can go wrong. But if you want to make a perfect version of this drink, keep reading! You might be surprised to learn how adding orange juice and fresh lime will elevate your drink to a whole new flavour level. So, if you’re a vodka-cran fan, stick around while we take you through the berry exciting world of this classic cocktail recipe.
Add ice to a highball glass
Pour in the vodka and orange juice then top with cranberry
Add a squeeze of lime juice, before dropping the wedge into the drink
Stir and serve
This cocktail (aka a Cape Codder) is easy to sip and a popular choice for novice drinkers. So, it’s no wonder this tasty pink drink has a bit of a reputation for being a university drink. The taste of the cranberry juice is sweet and tart, and the lime adds a bit of zest, making it very drinkable and perfect for beginners.
If you want to, play around, and make a Madras cocktail by adding extra orange juice for a fruity brunch drink. Or add Grand Marnier orange liqueur and shake it up to create a fabulous Cosmopolitan.
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When figuring out how to make a good iteration of this drink, you might be tempted to shake it instead of building it in the glass. But what’s the difference in taste? And why are drinks shaken, stirred, or made in a glass? Here are a few top tips:
If the drink contains citrus, cream, or eggs, you can shake it in a cocktail shaker. That way, you’re mixing, chilling, and aerating the ingredients, resulting in a lighter frothy drink. Our recipe for the perfect Vodka Cranberry has added lime juice and optional orange juice. So, if you’re feeling a little fancy, shake this drink before straining it into a chilled cocktail glass.
Stirring a drink is best suited to liquor-only cocktails, like the Negroni, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Martini. Stirring a cocktail chills the ingredients without watering it down or diluting the alcohol too much.
Lastly, you can choose to build the drink straight in the glass like we’ve done with our recipe for a casual evening with friends.
You might also like: How to Use a Cocktail Shaker
The Cape Codder is all about being fuss-free and uncomplicated. It’s a great drink for those last-minute events and casual gatherings. Serve these refreshing cocktails during:
You might also like: 11 Best Brunch Cocktails for Easy Entertaining
Even though they’re at an ABV of 14% (slightly stronger than a glass of wine), they go down an absolute treat, which means you’re likely to enjoy more than one. So slowly does it! If you want an even lighter cocktail made with vodka and cranberry juice, add a splash of soda water for a refreshing, tall drink.
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