Tequila Cranberry Cocktail (Easy & Refreshing)

Tequila Cranberry cocktail is a refreshing and versatile drink that can be enjoyed all year round. However, with the addition of fresh cranberries, it becomes the perfect festive beverage for holiday parties. This smooth and delicious cocktail is sure to become one of your favorites.
Tequila Cranberry Ingredients
To make this delightful drink, you will need the following ingredients:
Tequila: Blanco tequila, also known as white or silver tequila, is the recommended choice for a tequila cranberry cocktail. Its less sweet flavor profile complements the other ingredients perfectly. Feel free to use your favorite brand of tequila.
Cranberry Juice: Sweetened cranberry juice or cranberry juice cocktail is the ideal mixer for this cocktail. If you prefer a tart flavor, you can use unsweetened cranberry juice and add a little simple syrup to balance the tartness.
Limes: Fresh lime juice adds a bright citrus note to the cocktail. You can also use lime wedges to wet the rim of the glass and for garnish.
Kosher Salt: This is an optional garnish, especially if you’re adding a Cointreau to transform the cocktail into a Cranberry Margarita.
Fresh Cranberries: These are optional garnishes that give the cocktail a festive look, especially during the holiday season.
Ice Cubes: Essential for keeping the cocktail chilled.
Recipe Directions
Creating this delightful cocktail is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Wet the rim of a glass with a lime wedge and dip it into margarita salt (or sand sugar) for a flavorful garnish.
Step 2: Fill the glass with ice.
Step 3: Pour in 1 shot of tequila.
Step 4: Top off with sweetened cranberry juice.
Step 5: Add a squeeze of lime juice and stir well.
Step 6: Garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cranberries.
Tip: Alternatively, you can add the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice, shake until chilled, and then strain into glasses filled with ice. Don’t forget to add the garnish.
Recipe Variations
Here are a few variations you can try to customize your Tequila Cranberry cocktail:
Mix in a splash of fresh orange juice for added complexity and flavor.
Add a sprig of rosemary on top for a festive touch during the holiday season.
Instead of garnishing with salt, you can use sand sugar for a different rim garnish.
Replace 1.5 ounces of cranberry juice with club soda or a lemon-lime soda to add a citrusy zest and some fizz.
Pitcher Recipe
If you’re serving a crowd, you’ll love this easy large batch cocktail. Follow these steps:
For every 6 ounces of cranberry juice, add 1.5 ounces of tequila and a squeeze of lime to your pitcher. Stir well.
Prepare individual glasses with a salt or sugar rim, fill them with ice, and add several fresh cranberries.
Pour the mixture over the ice in each glass and garnish with a lime wheel.
More Cocktails to Enjoy
If you enjoy this Tequila Cranberry cocktail, you might also like these other delicious cocktail recipes:
- Fresh Strawberry Margarita On the Rocks
- How to Make a Mexican Martini Recipe
- Cranberry Rosemary Cocktail
- Tequila Screwdriver
- Avocado Margarita (deliciously creamy)
This Tequila Cranberry cocktail is a versatile and refreshing drink that can be enjoyed year round. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a cool beverage on a hot summer day, this easy and tasty cocktail is the perfect choice.
Cheers!