This Cranberry Negroni is a fun twist on the classic drink! With tart cranberry juice mixing perfectly with gin, vermouth, and Campari, it’s a colorful and refreshing cocktail.
I love serving this at parties—it always gets people talking! Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy cranberry beyond Thanksgiving. Cheers to happy sips! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: I recommend using a quality gin that you enjoy, as its flavor will shine through. If you’re looking for a substitution, a mild vodka can work, but it will change the cocktail’s character.
Sweet Vermouth: This adds depth to your Negroni. If you can’t find it, try using a dry vermouth, but reduce the amount slightly. A splash of elderflower liqueur could also add a different but delightful sweetness.
Campari: This iconic bitter liqueur is essential for flavor. If you’re looking for something less bitter, consider Aperol; it’s sweeter and will alter the taste, but it’s still a great option.
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice is my go-to for a more tart drink. You can use sweetened juice if you prefer, but keep in mind that it will add extra sweetness to the drink. Fresh cranberries are a fun touch if in season!
How Do I Ensure My Negroni is Well-Mixed and Chilled?
The key to a great Cranberry Negroni is stirring it properly to ensure everything is well-blended and chilled. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start with a mixing glass and fill it halfway with ice—it should be nice and cold before you add any ingredients.
- Pour in your gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and cranberry juice slowly.
- Using a bar spoon or any long spoon, stir gently but firmly for 20-30 seconds. You want to see the liquid swirl as it chills and gets diluted slightly from the melting ice.
- Once it’s chilled, strain it into a glass filled with fresh ice to keep it cold longer.
Remember, the more you stir, the smoother the drink will be, so don’t rush this step!
Cranberry Negroni Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Orange peel or sprig of rosemary (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and delightful cocktail to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a relaxing evening, you’ll have a delicious drink ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Mixing Glass:
Start by filling a mixing glass with ice. This helps chill your cocktail while you mix it.
2. Add Your Ingredients:
Pour in 1 oz of gin, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, 1 oz of Campari, and 1 oz of cranberry juice. Each ingredient adds a unique flavor, so take a moment to appreciate them as you pour!
3. Stir It Up:
Using a bar spoon or any long spoon, stir the mixture gently but firmly for about 20-30 seconds. You want everything to mix well and get nice and cold.
4. Strain the Mix:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with fresh ice. Now, strain your well-mixed drink into the glass, letting it pour over the ice.
5. Garnish Your Drink:
For the finishing touch, garnish your Cranberry Negroni with a few fresh cranberries skewered on a cocktail pick. You can also add an orange peel or a sprig of rosemary for an extra splash of color and aroma.
6. Enjoy Your Creation:
Serve your Cranberry Negroni immediately and enjoy the vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. Cheers to a delicious cocktail!
Can I Substitute the Gin in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While gin is traditional, you can use vodka for a smoother taste, or even bourbon if you prefer a richer flavor. Keep in mind that it will alter the drink’s character, but it can still be delicious!
What Type of Cranberry Juice Should I Use?
Using unsweetened cranberry juice is best for a true tart flavor. If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to opt for lightly sweetened juice, but consider reducing the sweet vermouth slightly to balance the sweetness.
How Can I Make This Drink Less Bitter?
If you find Campari too bitter, you can substitute it with Aperol, which is sweeter and less bitter. This will change the cocktail’s profile but will still maintain a fruity and refreshing vibe!
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
Keep any leftover cranberry juice in the fridge for up to a week. For opened vermouth and gin, ensure they are tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavors for a longer time. Sweet vermouth should ideally be refrigerated for the best taste!
