This Christmas Vodka Martini is a merry twist on a classic drink! With refreshing vodka and a splash of cranberry juice, it’s perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
There’s something special about sipping a festive martini by the tree. I like to add a little mint for a fresh touch. Cheers to cozy nights and holiday cheer! 🍸
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A good quality vodka is key for this martini. If you’re looking for something different, try using flavored vodka like vanilla or citrus for a holiday twist.
Dry Vermouth: This adds a herby note to your drink. If you’re not a fan of vermouth, you can replace it with a splash of tonic water or skip it altogether for a cleaner taste.
Cranberry Juice: Adding cranberry juice gives a festive color and a hint of sweetness. You can substitute it with pomegranate juice for a similar flavor or skip it for a classic martini.
Garnish: Fresh rosemary garnishes beautifully and adds aroma. If you can’t find fresh rosemary, consider using mint or even a sprinkle of edible glitter for sparkle!
How Should I Garnish My Christmas Vodka Martini?
The garnish is what makes this martini festive and inviting! Here’s how to make it pop:
- Start with a fresh rosemary sprig; it adds a lovely aroma.
- Add a few fresh cranberries. If you’d like them sparkling, roll them in sugar!
- Finish with a thin slice of lemon or orange for a splash of color against the cocktail.
Remember, presentation counts, especially during the holidays, so have fun with your garnish and make it visually appealing! Enjoy! 🎄
How to Make a Christmas Vodka Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz dry vermouth
- 1 oz cranberry juice (optional for a slight pink hue)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
- Thin lemon or orange slice for garnish
- Sugar (optional, for rimming or sugaring cranberries)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This festive cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. Just a quick few moments to shake and mix, and you’re ready to enjoy a holiday drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cocktail Shaker:
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. This will ensure your drink is nice and chilled!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Next, pour in 2 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of dry vermouth, and if you’re feeling festive, add 1 ounce of cranberry juice. The cranberry juice will give your martini a lovely hint of color and sweetness.
3. Shake it Up!
Put the lid on your cocktail shaker and shake it vigorously until the outside feels cold—about 15-20 seconds. This mixes everything evenly and chills the ingredients perfectly.
4. Strain into a Glass:
Take a chilled martini glass and strain the mixture from the shaker into the glass. If you want to serve it on the rocks, you can fill the glass with ice cubes first.
5. Garnish Like a Pro:
Now for the fun part! Add a fresh rosemary sprig as a garnish. You can also toss in a few fresh cranberries (roll them in sugar for a sweeter touch) and add a thin slice of lemon or orange on the rim for some festive flair.
6. Enjoy Your Drink:
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Christmas Vodka Martini. Sip slowly and savor the holiday cheer!
Can I Use Other Types of Vodka?
Absolutely! While regular vodka is great, you can experiment with flavored vodkas like cranberry or citrus to enhance the holiday vibe further. Just keep in mind that flavored vodkas may add extra sweetness!
How Do I Prepare Cranberries for Garnish?
For a festive touch, you can roll fresh cranberries in sugar to give them a sweet sparkle. Simply rinse the cranberries, pat them dry, and roll them in granulated sugar before adding them to your drink as a garnish.
Can I Make This Drink Ahead of Time?
It’s best to mix this cocktail fresh for optimal flavor and chill. However, you can prepare the mixture (vodka, vermouth, and cranberry juice) in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shake with ice before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Martini?
Serve it in a chilled martini glass for the best experience. If you prefer it on the rocks, feel free to use a glass filled with ice—just remember that it may dilute the drink slightly as the ice melts!
