This festive cocktail is a fun mix of flavors that will brighten up any holiday gathering! With a splash of cranberry and a hint of orange, it’s both tart and sweet.
Whenever I make this drink, it feels like Christmas magic in a glass! 🍹 I love to garnish it with a sprig of rosemary for that extra holiday touch. Cheers to good times!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice gives a nice tartness. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can opt for light cranberry juice or cranberry cocktail.
Vodka: Regular vodka works well, but for a twist, you could use flavored vodka, like vanilla or citrus. Just keep in mind that it might change the overall taste!
Triple Sec: This orange liqueur adds sweetness. If you don’t have it, you can use orange juice or another citrus liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
Simple Syrup: You can make this by equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved. For a healthier option, consider agave syrup or honey, adjusting the amount to taste.
How Can You Ensure the Perfect Balance of Flavors?
Getting the right balance in cocktails can be tricky. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the base ingredients—cranberry juice and vodka—and adjust the sweetness with simple syrup gradually. This way, you can taste and control the sweetness level.
- Remember, the acid from lime juice adds a refreshing punch, but too much can overpower the drink. Start with less, then add more if needed.
- The fizzy club soda should enhance the cocktail without overwhelming it. Just a splash is enough for a nice sparkle!
With these tips, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing cocktail perfect for your holiday festivities. Cheers to tasty times!
How to Make Kris Kringle’s Jingle Batch Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup triple sec or orange liqueur
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup club soda or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This delightful cocktail will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for those last-minute festive gatherings. Just mix, serve, and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large pitcher, pour in the cranberry juice, vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. Use a large spoon to stir everything together until well mixed. Tasting at this stage helps you adjust sweetness—add more syrup if you like it sweeter!
2. Prepare the Glasses:
Grab your favorite glasses and fill each one with ice cubes. This will keep your cocktail cold and refreshing!
3. Fill the Glasses:
Carefully pour the cocktail mixture over the ice in each glass, filling them about three-quarters full. This leaves room for the fizzy mixer!
4. Add the Fizz:
Top off each drink with a splash of club soda or sparkling water. This will brighten up the drink and add a nice bubbly texture!
5. Garnish and Serve:
For a festive touch, garnish each cocktail with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a few fresh cranberries, either skewered on a toothpick or dropped directly into the drink. It not only looks beautiful but adds a lovely aroma!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious cocktails immediately and watch them bring joy to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy the festive, tart, and refreshing flavors of your Kris Kringle’s Jingle Batch Cocktail. Cheers!
Can I Use Other Spirits Instead of Vodka?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute vodka with gin or rum. Keep in mind that these will change the overall taste of the cocktail, but they can be delicious alternatives!
Can I Make It Non-Alcoholic?
Yes, you can easily adapt this cocktail into a mocktail! Simply omit the vodka and triple sec, and enhance the cranberry juice with extra lime juice and a splash of orange juice for added flavor. Replace the club soda with sparkling water to keep it fizzy!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Mixture?
If you have leftover cocktail mix without the club soda, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to add the bubbly soda just before serving to keep it fizzy and refreshing!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the simple syrup based on your taste preferences. Start with less, and add gradually until it reaches your desired sweetness. You can also use honey or agave syrup as alternatives.
