Everyone loves a Vodka Cranberry….and this recipe is the BEST!! It has the perfect proportions of cranberry juice, lime juice, and vodka so you can take all the guesswork out of your next happy hour!

Also known as a Cape Codder or Cape Cod Drink, this is one of the most popular vodka drinks around. And the good news is it couldn’t be easier to make.

If you’re looking for the perfect cocktail to serve at your next ladies’ night, book club, or holiday party….look no further. Vodka cocktails are always a hit, and this one turns out amazing every single time!

For as long as I can remember, a Cranberry Vodka has been my fallback when I’m out at a bar. It’s one of those drinks that’s easy to remember, easy to order, and always tastes delicious.

The funny thing about it, though? I don’t often make it at home. And I literally have no idea why. Not only is it super simple to mix (you can even mix an entire pitcher for a larger group) but it’s one of those cocktails everyone loves!

And….it works for any season. It can be light and refreshing with a lime wedge in summertime, and if you throw in some fresh cranberries, it makes the BEST cocktail for a holiday party.

All you need is 3 ingredients, some ice, and a few fun garnishes, and you’re well on your way to a perfect cocktail that’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

• Cranberry juice
• Vodka
• Lime juice
• Lime wedge
• Fresh cranberries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill glass 2/3 full with ice.
2. Add 2 oz. vodka.
3. Add 3/4 c. cranberry juice.
4. Mix; garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cranberries (optional).

Why is it called a Cape Cod Cocktail?

The drink was invented in 1945 by the Ocean Spray cranberry grower’s cooperative in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It was originally known as the “Red Devil” but eventually became known as the “Cape Codder” or Vodka Cranberry.

What is the best kind of vodka to use?

My favorite vodka for any cocktail is Tito’s, which is an affordable yet high quality vodka that’s served in nearly every bar.

What is the best cranberry juice to use?

I prefer 100% cranberry juice, but for a sweeter drink you may choose cranberry juice cocktail, which has added sugar.

To make this recipe for a large group:

This is the perfect cocktail to make for a crowd. In a large pitcher, combine 3 parts cranberry juice, 1 part vodka, and 1/4 part lime juice (or to taste). For example, 3 cups cranberry juice, 1 cup vodka, and 1/4 cup lime juice. Cover the pitcher and chill until ready to use, then pour into individual glasses with ice and garnish with a lime wedge.

Recipe variations:

• Add a splash of seltzer or Sprite to give it some fizz
• Use sparkling cranberry juice in place of regular juice
• Omit the lime juice
• Change the proportions according to your tastes

What is a Madras Drink?

A Madras cocktail is similar to a Vodka cranberry, but orange juice is substituted for the lime juice or just added to the recipe. 

Other good vodka mixers:

• Sprite
• Seltzer
• Tonic
• Orange juice
• Ginger beer
• Lemonade

More delicious vodka cocktails:

• Ginger Orange Vodka Press
• Grapefruit Vodka Press
• Pomegranate Party Punch
• Blackberry Basil Vodka Lemonade
• Orange Moscow Mule
• Ruby Red Rosemary Cocktail

More delicious cranberry cocktails:

• Cranberry Mimosas
• Cranberry Moscow Mules
• Cranberry Apple Sangria
• Mulled Cranberry Sangria

Continue to Content

Vodka Cranberry

Yield: 1

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Everyone loves a Vodka Cranberry....and this recipe is the BEST!! It has the perfect proportions of cranberry juice, lime juice, and vodka so you can take all the guesswork out of your next happy hour! Also known as a Cape Codder or Cape Cod Drink, this is one of the most popular vodka drinks around. And the good news is it couldn't be easier to make.

Print

Ingredients

• 3/4 c. cranberry juice
• 2 oz. vodka
• 1/2 oz. lime juice
• 1 lime wedge
• Fresh cranberries (optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass 2/3 full with ice.
2. Add cranberry juice, vodka, and lime juice. Mix.
3. Garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cranberries (optional).

Everyone loves a Vodka Cranberry….and this recipe is the BEST!! It has the perfect proportions of cranberry juice, lime juice, and vodka so you can take all the guesswork out of your next happy hour!