The Cranberry Gin Fizz is a refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion! It combines tangy cranberry juice with smooth gin and a splash of fizzy soda, making it bubbly and fun!
I’ll often add a slice of lime or a few fresh cranberries for a pop of color. It’s a delightful treat that lifts spirits (and tastes great too)! Cheers to easy bubbly drinks! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: A quality gin adds a nice botanical flavor to your Cranberry Gin Fizz. If you prefer something different, try vodka for a smoother taste, or even a flavored gin if you want to change things up!
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice provides tartness. If you can’t find unsweetened, go for lightly sweetened but reduce the simple syrup a bit to balance the flavors.
Simple Syrup: This will sweeten your drink. You can make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar in hot water or use honey or agave syrup as a natural substitute.
Club Soda/Sparkling Water: This adds the fizz! If you want a different flavor, try ginger ale or lemon-lime soda instead for a sweeter twist.
How Can I Make the Best of My Cocktail Shaker?
Using a cocktail shaker is key to mixing the ingredients well and chilling your drink. Here are some tips:
- Fill your shaker halfway with ice. This helps mix the drink well as you shake.
- Make sure the lid is on tightly. A loose lid can create a mess, so press it down firmly.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want it cold! Feel the metal getting cold to know it’s ready.
- If you have a dual shaker, use the strainer to keep ice out of your drink.
These steps will help you serve a perfectly chilled and mixed Cranberry Gin Fizz! Enjoy every sip!
Cranberry Gin Fizz
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Club soda or sparkling water, to top
- Ice cubes or crushed ice
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting on garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful drink will take you about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for any occasion or to enjoy on a sunny afternoon!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cocktail Shaker:
Begin by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. This will chill the ingredients as you shake them up, giving your drink that refreshing coldness.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Next, pour in the gin, cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. This combination creates a wonderfully refreshing flavor!
3. Shake It Up:
Secure the lid on your shaker and shake it well for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to be nice and cold, so feel the outside of the shaker—it should be chilly to the touch!
4. Serve the Drink:
Fill a glass with crushed ice or ice cubes, whichever you prefer. Then, strain the mixture from the shaker into the glass, making sure to get all that delicious flavor in!
5. Add Some Fizz:
Top your drink off with club soda or sparkling water. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together without losing too much of the carbonation.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Lastly, garnish your drink with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. If you’re feeling festive, you can dust the rosemary with powdered sugar!
Serve your Cranberry Gin Fizz immediately, raise a glass, and enjoy this refreshing, bubbly treat!
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute gin with vodka. For something a bit sweeter, try using a flavored vodka or a fruit-infused gin!
How Can I Make This Drink Less Sweet?
If you’d like a less sweet version, simply reduce the amount of simple syrup. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, adjusting to your preference.
Can I Prepare This Drink in Advance?
While it’s best to serve it fresh to maintain the fizz, you can mix the gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time. Just add soda right before serving for that bubbly effect!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ingredients?
Store any leftover cranberry juice and simple syrup in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to seal them in airtight containers for freshness!
