This festive cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet and fruity flavors, perfect for holiday cheer! It combines sparkling apple cider, cranberry juice, and a splash of ginger ale.
It’s like a party in a glass! I love serving it at gatherings—I tell people it’s Kris’s secret recipe. Just watch everyone smile when they take a sip! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: Fresh or unsweetened cranberry juice is ideal for this recipe. It keeps the drink tart. If you don’t have access to fresh juice, try using a low-sugar cranberry juice to keep it healthy.
Vodka or Gin: This is optional if you want a non-alcoholic version. You might consider using flavored vodka (like citrus) for an extra twist. Alternatively, replace the spirits with a splash of flavored sparkling water for a fun mocktail.
Simple Syrup: Control the sweetness by adjusting the amount of syrup based on your taste. You can make your own by combining equal parts of sugar and water heated until dissolved. Or, use agave syrup or honey as a natural alternative!
Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh juice is always better for flavor. If you can’t get fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will work too, just be cautious of the acidity—it can be stronger.
How Do You Get The Perfect Balance of Flavors?
The key to a great cocktail is balance! Make sure to taste your mixture before serving. If it’s too sweet, a splash more lemon juice can help brighten it up. If it’s too tart, add more simple syrup.
- Start with the base ingredients and mix them in your shaker, adding ice. Shake for about 15-20 seconds.
- Taste the mixture before straining it into your glass. Adjust sweet/sour levels to your liking.
- Top with sparkling water gently to keep the fizz alive without overwhelming the drink.
Lastly, the garnish not only looks great but adds aroma to each sip. Fresh rosemary or pine gives that holiday feel!
Kris Kringle’s Jingle Batch Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz cranberry juice (preferably fresh or unsweetened)
- 1.5 oz vodka or gin (optional for alcoholic version)
- 1 oz simple syrup or to taste
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Sparkling water or club soda, to top
- Crushed ice
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Sprig of rosemary or pine, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to make. Just a little prep time for mixing and garnishing, and you’ll be ready to toast to the holidays!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill the Glass:
Start by filling a rocks glass with crushed ice. This will chill your glass and keep your drink nice and cool once you pour it in.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a cocktail shaker, combine your cranberry juice, vodka or gin (if you want a boozy kick), simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Give it a good shake! Shake for about 15-20 seconds or until everything is well combined and chilled.
3. Strain and Pour:
Strain the delicious mixture into your icy glass filled with crushed ice. Watch as the vibrant color fills your glass—so inviting!
4. Add Sparkles:
Top off your drink with sparkling water or club soda for that effervescent fizz. Just pour gently to maintain the bubbles and prevent overflowing.
5. Garnish:
Add some flair by skewering fresh cranberries onto a toothpick or cocktail pick. Place it right on top of the drink. Then, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or pine for that wonderfully festive touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately and let everyone dive into the bright, refreshing holiday flavors! This cocktail is sure to spread joy and cheer at any festive occasion.
Cheers to a delicious holiday season, and enjoy every sip of this delightful cocktail!
Can I Use Non-Alcoholic Options for This Cocktail?
Absolutely! Simply omit the vodka or gin, and you’ll still have a delicious drink. The blend of cranberry juice, lemon juice, and sparkling water makes for a refreshing mocktail that everyone can enjoy.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cocktail?
If you find the drink too sweet or not sweet enough, just adjust the simple syrup amount. Start with less and add more as needed after tasting the mixture. This way, you can customize it to your preference!
Can I Make This Cocktail in Larger Batches?
Definitely! To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and mix them in a pitcher. Keep the base mixture chilled and add sparkling water just before serving to keep it fizzy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
For best results, try to consume the cocktail right after making it. If you have leftover mixture without the effervescence, you can store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just remember to add the sparkling water just before serving!