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Festive Christmas Citrus Cocktail Recipe

Festive Christmas Citrus Cocktail


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4.9 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Holly jolly christmas citrus cocktail blends festive flavors from Mediterranean regions into a sparkling holiday drink. Cranberry, orange, and vodka combine elegantly for a cheerful seasonal celebration you’ll savor with friends.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz (60 ml) vodka or gin
  • 3 oz (90 ml) sparkling water or ginger ale
  • 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • ½ oz (15 ml) ginger syrup (or simple syrup for a milder flavor)
  • ½ oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Orange slices
  • Lime slices
  • Fresh cranberries
  • Rosemary sprig

Instructions

  1. Prepare Glassware: Generously fill a festive cocktail glass with crystalline ice cubes, creating a frosty foundation for the holiday libation.
  2. Rim Enhancement: Trace the glass edge with a citrus wedge and delicately coat with granulated sugar for a sparkling presentation.
  3. Cocktail Mixing: Load a cocktail shaker with ice, then combine spirit, orange essence, grapefruit nectar, lime juice, and ginger syrup. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds to blend flavors and create a harmonious mixture.
  4. Pouring Technique: Strain the luminous liquid into the prepared glass with a smooth, elegant motion that showcases the cocktail’s vibrant character.
  5. Effervescent Finish: Top the drink with sparkling water or ginger ale, introducing a playful fizzy element that elevates the overall experience.
  6. Festive Garnishing: Artfully arrange an orange or lime slice, scatter cranberry jewels, and crown with a fragrant rosemary sprig to capture the holly jolly holiday essence.
  7. Serving Recommendation: Present immediately, inviting guests to immerse themselves in this seasonally inspired, jubilant cocktail celebration.

Notes

  • Chill Glass Perfectly: Use large, crystal-clear ice cubes to maintain optimal temperature without rapid dilution, ensuring a crisp cocktail experience.
  • Sugar Rim Technique: Press rimming sugar gently and evenly, rotating glass at a 45-degree angle for consistent, professional-looking decoration that enhances visual appeal.
  • Shake with Precision: Shake cocktail exactly 10 seconds for balanced temperature and texture; over-shaking can make drink too watery and compromise flavor complexity.
  • Garnish Strategically: Select fresh, vibrant herbs and fruits; place rosemary and citrus slices intentionally to release aromatic oils and create Instagram-worthy presentation.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Drinks, Cocktails
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 139
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg