Cranberry Whiskey Sour Recipe – Easy Festive Holiday Cocktail

Whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike will appreciate Cranberry Whiskey Sour recipe. The balance of flavors is what makes it so special.

This drink is a delightful twist on the classic whiskey sour, combining the boldness of whiskey with the tart sweetness of cranberry juice and a hint of citrus.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cranberry whiskey cocktail is sure to impress.

The cranberry juice adds a fruity tartness, the orange juice brings a citrusy brightness, and the whiskey ties it all together with its warm, bold character.

Plus, it’s super easy to make with just a few ingredients and minimal equipment.

Let me walk you through the steps to create this vibrant drink and share some tips to make it even better.

What is a whiskey sour?

A whiskey sour is a classic cocktail made with whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup. It’s shaken with ice and served over ice or straight up.

The drink is known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bold whiskey flavors. This cranberry whiskey sour is a fun twist on the original recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Whiskey Sour?

Whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike will appreciate this recipe. The balance of flavors is what makes it so special.

The cranberry juice adds a fruity tartness, the orange juice brings a citrusy brightness, and the whiskey ties it all together with its warm, bold character.

Plus, it’s super easy to make with just a few ingredients and minimal equipment.

How To Make Cranberry Whiskey Sour Recipe?

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Course: Drinks/Cocktails
• Cuisine: American
• Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients for Cranberry Whiskey Sour

To make this cranberry whiskey sour recipe, you’ll need simple, fresh ingredients that pack a punch of flavor:

• 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye works great)
• 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or 100% juice preferred)
• 1 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh cranberries and an orange slice, for garnish.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring tool
• Strainer
• Rocks glass or whiskey glass

Instructions To Make

This whiskey sour with cranberry juice comes together in just a few steps:

1. Fill the Shaker: Add ice cubes to your cocktail shaker.

2. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the whiskey, cranberry juice, orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

3. Shake It Up: Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.

4. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.

5. Garnish: Top with fresh cranberries and an orange slice for a festive touch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 2mg

Serving Suggestions

➤ Serve this cocktail with appetizers like cheese boards, roasted nuts, or savory finger foods.

➤ For a holiday vibe, pair it with cranberry-themed dishes or desserts like cranberry-orange scones or cranberry bars.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Whiskey Sour

1. Use Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice make a huge difference in flavor.

2. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a little more simple syrup. For a tarter cocktail, reduce it slightly.

3. Chill Your Glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving to keep the drink extra cold.

4. Experiment with Whiskey: Try different types of whiskey, like bourbon for a sweeter finish or rye for a spicier kick.

Variations to Try

◆ Spiced Cranberry Whiskey Sour: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of allspice for a warm, spiced flavor.

◆ Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour: Increase the orange juice to 1.5 oz for a more citrus-forward drink.

◆ Sparkling Cranberry Whiskey Sour: Top with a splash of soda water or ginger ale for a fizzy twist.

◆ Frozen Version: Blend the ingredients with ice for a slushy-style cocktail.

Health Benefits of Cranberry Whiskey Sour

While this is a cocktail, it does have some ingredients with health benefits:

✔ Cranberry Juice: Known for its antioxidants and potential urinary tract health benefits.

✔ Citrus Juices: Packed with vitamin C to boost immunity.

✔ Moderate Whiskey Consumption: Some studies suggest that whiskey, in moderation, may have heart health benefits.

What kind of whiskey is best?

The best whiskey for a whiskey sour depends on your taste. Bourbon adds a smooth, sweet flavor, while rye whiskey has a spicier, bolder profile.

Either works beautifully in this cranberry whiskey sour recipe, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite.

What To Serve With This Cranberry Cocktail?

This cranberry cocktail pairs well with savory appetizers like charcuterie boards, stuffed mushrooms, or bacon-wrapped dates.

For a festive holiday spread, serve it with cranberry-themed desserts or a hearty main dish like roasted turkey or glazed ham.

FAQs

Notes

• Always taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
• Garnishes like cranberries and orange slices not only look great but add a burst of flavor if muddled slightly.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a must-try cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion.

Its balance of tart, sweet, and bold flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re sipping solo or serving guests.

Try this cranberry whiskey cocktail today, and let me know how you like it!

Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and share your own twist in the comments. Cheers!