Cranberry Juice and Vodka Cocktail

There’s something about a simple drink that hits just right after a long day, and this Cranberry Juice and Vodka cocktail is one I come back to over and over.

I first made it on a busy weeknight when I had friends drop by without warning. I grabbed vodka, cranberry juice, a lime, and some sparkling water… and wow. It turned into the easiest party drink ever.
It’s light, fruity, a little fizzy, and the color always looks so pretty on the table.

If you love drinks that take almost no effort and still taste amazing, this one will become your go-to too.

Let’s get to know the process of making this cocktail.

What Is Cranberry Juice and Vodka Called?

Most people call it a Vodka Cranberry or Cranberry Vodka Cocktail. Some like to call it a Cranberry Vodka Spritzer when sparkling water is added. It’s simple, refreshing, and loved at holiday gatherings, family dinners, and any casual hangout.

Why You Will Love This Cranberry Juice and Vodka Cocktail?

• Ready in minutes
• No shaker or equipment needed
• Sweet and tart flavor that pairs with anything
• Perfect party drink for holidays, girls’ night, or last-minute company
• Easy to adjust to your taste

What Kind of Cranberry Juice Should You Use?

I like 100% cranberry juice for stronger flavor, but sweetened cranberry cocktail works great if you want a slightly sweeter drink.
Use whatever you enjoy — this recipe is flexible.

How to Prepare Cranberry Juice and Vodka?

Recipe Overview

This Cranberry Juice and Vodka drink is a simple vodka and cranberry drink mixed with lime juice and sparkling water for a light, refreshing cocktail.

• Prep Time: 3 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 3 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Drinks / Cocktail
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 1
• Calories: Around 150 per serving
• Serving Size: 1 glass
• Equipment: Glass, measuring jigger or small cup, spoon

Ingredients

• 1.5 ounces vodka (about 1 shot)
• 3 ounces cranberry juice (about 2 shots)
• Splash of lime juice
• Lime sparkling water (to top the glass)
• Fresh cranberries
• Ice
• Sliced orange or sugared cranberries for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Notes

• Vodka: Any mid-range vodka works. You don’t need anything fancy.
• Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened gives a sharp flavor; cranberry cocktail gives a sweeter finish.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime brightens the whole drink.
• Sparkling Water: Lime flavor gives this drink a nice lift.
• Garnish: Fresh or sugared cranberries make it feel like a holiday cocktail.

How to Make Cranberry Juice and Vodka?

Step 1: Fill Your Glass

Add ice to a tall glass. I fill mine about halfway.

Step 2: Add the Vodka

Pour 1.5 ounces of vodka over the ice.

Step 3: Add Cranberry Juice

Pour in 3 ounces of cranberry juice. Give it a quick stir.

Step 4: Add Lime Juice

Squeeze in a small splash of fresh lime juice.

Step 5: Top With Lime Sparkling Water

Fill the rest of the glass with lime sparkling water. It gives the drink a light, bubbly finish.

Step 6: Garnish

Add fresh cranberries or a slice of orange if you want something bright and festive.

Tip:

If you want the drink sweeter, add a teaspoon of simple syrup or orange juice.

Nutrition (Approximate)

• Calories: 150
• Carbs: 10g
• Sugar: Varies based on cranberry juice
• Alcohol: About 14g

Variations and Substitutions

▶Cranberry Vodka Spritzer: Add extra sparkling water to make it lighter.

▶Cranberry Martini: Skip the sparkling water and serve it chilled in a martini glass.

▶Vodka Cranberry Sour: Add a squeeze of orange and more lime for a tangy twist.

▶Holiday Party Punch: Mix vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and sparkling water in a large pitcher. Add orange slices and cranberries.

▶Alcohol-Free Version: Replace vodka with extra lime sparkling water.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with party snacks, fruit platters, cheese boards, or anything salty.
• Add sugared cranberries on a cocktail pick for holiday gatherings.
• Chill all ingredients before mixing to keep the drink icy cold.

Storing Tips

This drink is best made fresh, but you can mix the cranberry juice, vodka, and lime ahead of time. Keep the mix in the fridge and add sparkling water right before serving.

Helpful Tips

✅Use cold sparkling water for extra fizz.

✅Don’t skip the lime — it makes the drink bright and refreshing.

✅Add more cranberry juice if you want a fruitier drink.

✅Crushed ice works well if you like a lighter, chillier drink.

• Use your favorite cranberry juice brand.
• Taste and adjust the sweetness before adding sparkling water.
• Great for holiday gatherings and simple weekend drinks.
• Add fresh cranberries for a festive look.

FAQ

Conclusion

I love how quick and refreshing this Cranberry Juice and Vodka drink is. It’s the kind of cocktail you can whip up fast and still feel like you’re serving something fun.

If you try it, let me know how it went or what twist you added — I always enjoy hearing how you make these drinks your own.