Cranberry Spritzer

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Cranberry spritzer is made by simmering fresh cranberries with maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg then muddling with mint, vodka, and Cointreau, then topped with sparkling water. A light and refreshing holiday drink. 

Fresh cranberries are simmered with maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg, for a fresh cranberry base that is muddled with mint, vodka, and Cointreau, then topped with ice and sparkling water. Garnish with some fresh cranberries and fresh mint, and get ready for happy guests! You might also enjoy our Baileys Irish Cream.

close up of a cranberry spritzer in a copper mug

Ingredients

  • Fresh cranberries: These tart and vibrant berries are the star of the spritzer. They add a tangy flavor and a pop of color to the drink. Fresh cranberries are usually available during the fall and winter seasons.
  • Maple syrup: This natural sweetener derived from maple trees adds a rich and earthy sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries. It complements the flavors of the spritzer and adds depth to the overall taste.
  • Nutmeg: Nutmeg is a warm and aromatic spice that pairs well with cranberries. It adds a subtle hint of nuttiness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the spritzer.
  • Vodka: Vodka serves as the alcoholic base for the spritzer. Tito’s Handmade Vodka, known for its smooth and clean taste, is a popular choice. It adds a mild kick and contributes to the overall refreshing nature of the drink.
  • Cointreau: Cointreau is an orange-flavored liqueur that adds a bright and citrusy note to the spritzer. It complements the cranberry and mint flavors, adding complexity and balance to the drink.
  • Fresh mint leaves: Mint leaves provide a refreshing and aromatic element to the spritzer. They add a cool and crisp flavor that works well with the tartness of the cranberries and the citrus notes of Cointreau.
  • Sparkling water: Ice Mountain Sparkling Water Orange Flavor is used to add effervescence to the spritzer. The bubbles from the sparkling water create a light and bubbly texture, making the drink more lively and refreshing.

How To Make 

  1. Bring cranberries, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg to a simmer in a medium-sized pot.
  2.  Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often.
  3.  Place about 2-3 TBSP of the cranberry mixture into each copper mug or glass.
  4.  Place 4 mint leaves, 1 oz vodka, 1/2 oz Cointreau into the glass
  5.  Muddle, or mash, well.
  6. Add ice and sparkling water.
  7.  Garnish with fresh cranberries and a mint leaf.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks for making a delicious cranberry spritzer:

  • Use fresh cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor for this spritzer. Look for plump and firm cranberries when purchasing.
  • Simmer cranberries with maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg: Simmering the cranberries with these spices and sweeteners will infuse them with a rich and warm flavor. Make sure to simmer until the cranberries are soft and have released their juices.
  • Muddle with mint: Muddling the mint leaves helps release their essential oils and adds a refreshing aroma to the spritzer. Gently muddle the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon.
  • Use quality vodka and Cointreau: Since the alcohol plays a significant role in the flavor of the spritzer, choose a high-quality vodka and Cointreau (orange liqueur) for the best taste.
  • Adjust sweetness and spice: Taste the mixture before adding the sparkling water and adjust the sweetness and spice level to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter spritzer, add more maple syrup. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • Choose the right sparkling water: Opt for a plain or lightly flavored sparkling water that complements the other ingredients. Avoid strongly flavored sparkling water, as it may overpower the delicate flavors of the spritzer.
  • Serve chilled: Make sure to chill the spritzer before serving to enhance its refreshing quality. You can refrigerate the mixture before adding the sparkling water or serve it over ice.
  • Garnish with cranberries and mint sprigs: To add a festive touch, garnish each glass with a few cranberries and a sprig of fresh mint. It will make the spritzer look even more inviting.
  • Experiment with variations: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to personalize your spritzer. For example, you could add a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist or swap out the sparkling water for ginger ale to add a hint of ginger flavor.

Remember to drink responsibly and enjoy this light and refreshing cranberry spritzer during your holiday celebrations!

Vodka Cranberry Cocktail Spritzer can be served with or without alcohol and is just the touch you need at your next bridal shower, baby shower, holiday party, or luncheon.

close up of a cranberry spritzer in a copper mug

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh cranberries?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them before simmering.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Absolutely! You can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave syrup, or any other sweetener of your choice. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the cranberry spritzer?

It’s best to consume the spritzer immediately or within a day or two for the freshest taste. The flavors may start to fade and the carbonation will diminish over time.

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of vodka?

Yes, you can experiment with different spirits like gin or rum to create your unique variation of the spritzer. Keep in mind that it will alter the overall flavor profile.

Can I add other fruits or herbs to the spritzer?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add fruits like oranges, apples, or herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavors and add visual appeal.

How long can I store the cranberry spritzer?

It’s best to consume the spritzer immediately or within a day or two for the freshest taste. The flavors may start to fade and the carbonation will diminish over time.

Can I make the cranberry mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cranberry mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Just remember to add the sparkling water right before serving to maintain its fizziness.

More Drink Recipes

close up of a cranberry spritzer in a copper mug

Cranberry Spritzer Recipe

3.75 from 4 votes
Course Drinks
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Cranberry spritzer is made by simmering fresh cranberries with maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg then muddling with mint, vodka, and Cointreau, then topped with sparkling water. A light and refreshing holiday drink.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 2 ounces cointreau
  • 20 mint leaves
  • 32 ounces sparkling water
  • ice

Instructions

  • Cook the cranberries. Bring cranberries, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg to a simmer in a medium-sized pot.  Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often.
  • Make the spritzer. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cranberry mixture into each copper mug or glass.  Place 4 mint leaves, 1 oz vodka, and 1/2 oz Cointreau into the glass.  Muddle, or mash, well. Add ice and sparkling water.
  • Serve. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a mint leaf.

Notes

For a sweeter drink, add a splash of cranberry juice or use 7-up instead of sparkling water.
For a non-alcoholic drink simply omit the vodka and Cointreau

Nutrition

Calories: 196kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.05g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 53mg | Potassium: 125mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 235IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 57mg | Iron: 0.4mg
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