This classic cocktail is made with vodka, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and cranberry juice. It’s flirty and flavorful yet refined and simple. Tart cranberry juice blends with fresh lemon juice to smooth out the vodka and enhance the triple sec for a balance and refreshing cocktail perfect for sipping!
Prep Time3 minutesmins
Additional Time15 minutesmins
Total Time18 minutesmins
Course: Alcohol
Cuisine: American
Keyword: classic cosmopolitan recipe, cosmopolitan cocktail recipe, cosmopolitan drink recipe, how to make a cosmopolitan cocktail, what is a cosmopolitan, what is in a cosmopolitan
Servings: 1
Calories: 367kcal
Author: Averie Sunshine
Ingredients
Ice
2ouncesvodka
1ounceCointreau Triple Secor other orange liqueur
½ouncefreshly squeezed lemon juiceoptionally lime juice may be used
1ounce100% cranberry juice
Lemon twistfor garnish (optionally may use lime or orange)
Maraschino cherryoptional for garnish
Instructions
Fill a cocktail shaker about ⅔ full with ice.
Add in the vodka, Cointreau, lemon juice* (See Notes), cranberry juice (I like Ocean Spray or L&A. I have also made with 5-calorie cranberry 'juice' without issue), and shake vigorously for 20 seconds, or until the shaker is chilled to the touch.
Strain the mixture into a martini glass (chilled is preferred - place in the freezer for 15 minutes) and squeeze a piece of lemon peel over the glass to release the oils and add more flavor.
Then slice the lemon peel into thin strips and garnish** (See Notes) with a lemon twist and optionally a maraschino cherry.
Notes
* In a cocktail, I always opt for freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice rather than bottled.**I garnished with lemon peels and maraschino cherries, but orange peels, lime slices, and cranberries are also common garnishes. Maraschino cherries are not common but they help make the drink unique and are fun for the photos.***Recipe is intended for those whom alcohol is legal and appropriate.