Cranberry Vodka Sour

The Cranberry Vodka Sour is tart, smooth, and straight to the point. Cranberry gives it a bold bite, lemon adds that classic sour kick, and vodka keeps it clean and crisp. It’s the kind of drink that feels simple but hits with just the right amount of flavor. Bright in color and easy to sip, it’s great for happy hour, holiday get-togethers, or whenever you want something that’s refreshing without being too sweet. Serve it over ice with a lemon wheel or a few cranberries, and you’re set. The Cranberry Vodka Sour keeps things fresh and easy.

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Tasting Notes

The Cranberry Vodka Sour is a bright, silky cocktail with a tart citrus bite and a smooth, creamy texture. Vodka provides a clean, crisp base while cranberry juice adds a festive fruitiness and vibrant color. Lemon juice sharpens the mix, simple syrup softens it, and egg white creates a luxurious foam cap. It’s a perfectly balanced, eye-catching cocktail—light, zesty, and perfect for sipping year-round.

Equipment and Glassware

Use a cocktail shaker and jigger for mixing, and serve in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice. A fine mesh strainer is helpful for a silky finish, and garnish tools will give your lemon wheel or cranberries a polished touch.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• Lemon wheel or cranberry garnish optional

Instructions

• Dry Shake: In a shaker, combine vodka, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake without ice for 10–15 seconds to build foam.
• Wet Shake: Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
• Strain: Strain the mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
• Garnish: Garnish with a lemon wheel or fresh cranberries, if desired.
• Serve: Enjoy your Cranberry Vodka Sour.

Pro Tips

• Use a reverse dry shake (ice first, then shake again without) for even fluffier foam.
• Chill your glass in advance for a smoother, longer-lasting drink.
• For extra depth, add a dash of cranberry or orange bitters.
• Want it sweeter? Add a touch more syrup or use cranberry cocktail instead of 100% juice.

When to Serve

The Cranberry Vodka Sour is a standout choice for holiday celebrations, fall-to-winter get-togethers, or any occasion that calls for a vibrant cocktail with seasonal flair. Its rich color and bright citrus notes make it festive and inviting, while the silky texture from the egg white gives it an elevated feel without being overly complicated.

This cocktail offers a creative twist on the traditional vodka or whiskey sour, adding depth with cranberry’s tart edge and lemon’s crisp freshness. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, it’s a lively and luxurious option that’s sure to impress.

Recommended Brands

• Vodka: Tito’s, Absolut, or Ketel One
• Cranberry juice: 100% cranberry for tartness or cranberry cocktail for a softer sip
• Simple syrup: Homemade (1:1 sugar to water) or bottled
• Egg white: Fresh or pasteurized carton egg whites for convenience

Similar Cocktails

• Cranberry Collins
• Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini
• Cherry Spritz
• Blue Long Island Iced Tea
• Apricot Vodka Sour