Cranberry Cooler Cocktail Recipe
Cranberry Cooler Nutrition Facts
Calories:180
Fat:0g
Protein:0.5g
Carbohydrates:20g
Alcohol:12%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Cranberry Cooler is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that gained popularity in the 1980s. It is believed to have originated in the United States, where cranberries are a popular fruit. This cocktail is a favorite among those who enjoy fruity and refreshing drinks, perfect for summer parties and gatherings.
- Origin: United States
- Popular in the 1980s
- Favored by those who enjoy fruity and refreshing drinks
How Cranberry Cooler Tastes?
The Cranberry Cooler has a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, with a refreshing and crisp taste. The combination of cranberry juice, orange juice, and lemon-lime soda creates a fruity and zesty sensation, while the vodka adds a subtle kick.
Interesting facts about Cranberry Cooler
- Cranberries are native to North America and have been used for centuries by Native Americans for both food and medicine.
- The Cranberry Cooler is a versatile cocktail that can be easily modified by adding different fruits or switching out the vodka for another spirit.
- Cranberries are known for their health benefits, including their high antioxidant content and ability to help prevent urinary tract infections.
Ingredients
- Vodka: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Cranberry juice: 3 oz(90ml)
- Orange juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Lemon lime soda: 1 oz(30ml)
- Ice: 1 cup
- Orange slice: 1
- Lime wedge: 1
A few good options for Cranberry Cooler are:
- Grey Goose
- Belvedere
- Khor
- Smirnoff
Vodka
The spirit base, vodka provides a clean, neutral alcohol kick without overpowering other flavors. 1.5 oz is just the right amount to get the party started without making your head spin prematurely. Skip it, and you'll be sipping on a fancy soda!
Mary Mitkina
Cranberry Juice
The heart of the cocktail—3 oz gives a delightfully tart and fruity profile. Cranberry also adds a vivid color that screams 'sip me!' Less cranberry juice and the drink falls flat, more and it becomes a tart monster.
Emma Rose
Orange Juice
1 oz is enough to bring sweetness and citrusy brightness to the mix, complementing the cranberry. Take it out and you'd miss the sunny vibes and a layer of complexity.
Alex Green
Lemon-Lime Soda
This bubbly touch of 1 oz adds effervescence and a light citrus zing. Without it, the cocktail would lose its sparkle—literally—and the fun factor drops.
Mary Mitkina
Ice
1 cup might not seem like a star, but it's the cool secret to refreshing sippability. No ice and your drink is a lukewarm party pooper.
Emma Rose
Orange Slice and Lime Wedge
Garnishes that serve as the crowning jewel. They add aromatic hints and a pop of color. Plus, they signal your taste buds that something good is coming their way.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Cranberry Cooler Drink
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add 1.5 oz of vodka to the glass.
- Pour in 3 oz of cranberry juice.
- Add 1 oz of orange juice.
- Top with 1 oz of lemon-lime soda.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a lime wedge.
Pro Tips
- Vodka: Use a high-quality vodka for a smoother taste.
- Cranberry Juice: Freshly squeezed cranberry juice can enhance the flavor.
- Garnish: A sprig of mint can add a refreshing touch.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Cheese platters with mild cheeses to complement the cranberry's tartness.
- Seafood appetizers like shrimp cocktail or smoked salmon for a balanced flavor profile.
Main Courses
- Roast turkey or chicken as the fruitiness of the cocktail cuts through the richness of the meat.
- Grilled white fish for a light and refreshing combination.
Desserts
- Lemon or lime-flavored desserts to echo the citrus notes in the cocktail.
- Fruit sorbets would refresh the palate after each sip.
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What you could change in Cranberry Cooler
- Vodka: Can be replaced with gin or tequila for a different flavor profile.
- Cranberry Juice: Pomegranate juice can be a good substitute.
- Orange Juice: Can be replaced with pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Explore all drinks starting with C here
And of course - twists🍹
Cranberry Cooler with a Herbal Touch
- Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme when you add the ice. The herbal notes will bring an earthy depth to the fruity zing, kind of like a garden party in your mouth.
Spicy Cranberry Cooler
- Muddle a slice of jalapeño pepper in the glass before adding the ice and other ingredients. This little firecracker will add a spicy kick that'll make your lips tingle and harmonize with the tartness.
Cranberry Cooler Royale
- Swap lemon-lime soda for a splash of champagne or sparkling wine. This will give you a fancier fizz with a touch of sophistication. Perfect for when you're feeling a bit fancy on a not-so-fancy day.
In case you forgot basics how to make Cranberry Cooler
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on Cranberry Cooler
Can I use a different type of alcohol other than vodka?
Yes, the Cranberry Cooler is a flexible cocktail that allows for different spirits to be used. You could try rum or even a flavored vodka to change up the taste.
What other fruits can I add to the Cranberry Cooler?
You can add a variety of fruits to this cocktail to enhance its flavor, such as strawberries or raspberries for a sweet twist, or grapefruit for a more tart flavor.
When is the best time to enjoy the Cranberry Cooler?
The Cranberry Cooler is perfect for summer and spring, as its fruity and refreshing taste is great for outdoor gatherings or poolside lounging. However, it can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
Does the Cranberry Cooler pair well with food?
Yes, the Cranberry Cooler pairs wonderfully with light and fresh foods like salads, grilled fish or poultry. It's also a great drink to pair with spicy foods, as the sweetness of the cocktail can balance out the heat.
Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of the Cranberry Cooler by simply omitting the alcohol. You might want to add some more cranberry juice, orange juice, or soda to make up for the missing volume.
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