Who doesn’t love a crisp, juicy cosmo cocktail? The cranberry vodka cosmopolitan cocktail became popular in my generation, the 1990’s. This cosmopolitan cocktail recipe features citrus vodka, tart cranberry juice, and lime. It is highly drinkable. Consequently, the cosmo continues to charm bar-goers decades later.
Cosmo Cocktail History
Some say the cosmo cocktail originated in the 1980’s in Miami at a bar called The Strand. Others say the combination of cranberry, vodka, and citrus has been around since at least the 70’s. Flavored citrus vodka, an important component of the modern cosmo, didn’t make an appearance on market shelves until the late 1980’s. And around that same time, Toby Cecchini popularized his own version at New York’s Odeon in 1988. Not long after, this cranberry vodka drink appeared on the popular TV series Sex in the City. Consequently, the popularity of the cosmo cocktail really took off.
How to Make a Cosmo Cocktail
Vodka liquor is the base of every cranberry vodka Cosmo, and citrus-infused vodka enhances the flavor. A cosmopolitan cocktail recipe typically includes Cointreau or Triple Sec as well. In addition to these ingredients, fresh lime juice adds juicy tartness. However, sweetened lime juice may be used instead to increase the sweetness. Fresh lime gives a crisp finish and makes the drink less sugary. Additionally, the drink is often topped off by lime or lemon twist.
This sophisticated cranberry vodka cocktail is always a crowd pleaser. See kosher mixer suggestions below for those wanting to enjoy this cocktail on Purim, or any other occasion. Cheers!
Recommended Products:
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Cranberry Vodka Cosmo Cocktail
Ingredients
- 4 ounces cranberry juice
- 1 1/2 ounces lemon or citrus vodka
- 1 ounce Cointreau
- 1/4 ounce fresh lime juice or sweetened lime juice (use fresh juice for a more tart drink)
- 8 ice cubes
- Lime twist (optional, for garnish)
NOTES
Check for hechsher to ensure kosher certification Langer’s Cranberry Juice
Absolut Citron Vodka
Rose’s Sweetened Lime Juice (if using sweetened juice)
Cointreau
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a cocktail shaker along with 8 ice cubes. Shake vigorously for a few seconds until well chilled. Strain cocktail into the martini glass. Garnish with a lime twist and serve.
Gina says
This tastes exactly like the cosmo I loved at our local college bar! I’ve missed that flavor, and have tried so many recipes to get it right. So excited to have found this one! Thank you!
Danny says
Testing cocktails for Purim today and came across this. It’s perfect!