This refreshing cranberry gin and tonic is a perfect mix of sweet and tangy! The bright red cranberry juice adds color and flavor, making it fun for any gathering.
Shh, I sometimes add a splash more cranberry juice just to get that festive look. It’s like a little party in a glass! Sip and enjoy—it’s so easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: This cocktail can really shine with any gin you love, but I recommend a botanical gin for added flavor. If you don’t have gin, vodka also works well and still keeps it tasty.
Cranberry Juice: Choose unsweetened or lightly sweetened juice for a balanced drink. If you want a sweeter option, you could use cranberry cocktail juice. Pomegranate juice is a fun substitute too!
Tonic Water: Regular tonic water is classic, but you could try flavored tonic like elderflower for a twist. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for diet tonic options.
Fresh Cranberries & Rosemary: These garnishes add a nice touch! If fresh cranberries aren’t available, use pomegranate seeds. Any fresh herb can be used instead of rosemary, like mint or basil!
How Can I Make Sure My Cocktail is Refreshing and Bubbly?
To keep your cranberry gin and tonic refreshing and bubbly, focus on pouring gently and using chilled ingredients. Here’s how:
- Chill your gin and tonic water ahead of time to keep the drink cold.
- Fill the glass with ice first—this ensures that the drink stays cold and the ingredients mix well.
- Pour each ingredient slowly to help maintain the fizz, starting with gin, then cranberry juice, and topping off with tonic.
- Stir only gently to combine without losing the bubbles.
With these tips, your cocktail will be a hit at any gathering!
Cranberry Gin and Tonic Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 3 oz tonic water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (for garnish)
- 1 lime wedge or slice (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail is super quick to make! You’ll need about 5 minutes in total to gather your ingredients and mix everything together. In no time, you’ll have a refreshing drink ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by filling a short glass, like a rocks glass, with ice cubes. This will keep your drink nice and cool.
2. Add the Gin:
Pour 2 oz of gin over the ice. This forms the base of your cocktail, bringing in the lovely spirit flavor!
3. Mix in the Cranberry Juice:
Add 1 oz of cranberry juice to the glass. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor, and give that beautiful color.
4. Top with Tonic Water:
Now, it’s time to add the bubbly! Top off with 3 oz of tonic water, pouring gently to maintain the fizziness. We want those bubbles!
5. Stir Lightly:
Using a spoon, stir the cocktail lightly to combine all the ingredients without losing that delightful carbonation.
6. Add the Garnishes:
Garnish your cocktail with a handful of fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a lovely presentation. Place a lime wedge or slice on the rim or inside the glass for extra flair.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your cranberry gin and tonic immediately and enjoy this festive, refreshing cocktail. Cheers!
Can I Use Different Spirits in This Cocktail?
Absolutely! While gin is the classic choice, vodka can be a great substitute if you prefer a smoother taste. You might even try flavored vodkas for an extra twist!
What Type of Cranberry Juice Should I Use?
For the best flavor balance, opt for unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice. If you enjoy a sweeter drink, feel free to use cranberry cocktail juice or pomegranate juice as an alternative!
How Can I Make This Cocktail Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet drink, simply decrease the amount of cranberry juice or add more tonic water. You could also use soda water instead of tonic for a lighter flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
Store any opened cranberry juice in the refrigerator for up to a week. For gin and tonic water, keep them sealed in a cool, dark place. Tonic water can last for a few months, but once opened, it’s best to consume it within a few days for optimal fizz!