The Mistletoe Kiss is the ultimate Christmas cocktail , festive, flirty, and full of holiday charm. This vibrant drink blends sweet cranberry juice, zesty lime, smooth vodka, and a touch of sparkling soda for a refreshing balance of tart and sweet. It’s elegant enough for a Christmas party yet simple enough to make at home in just minutes.
With its gorgeous ruby-red hue and a garnish of fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs, this cocktail looks like Christmas in a glass. Perfect for toasting under the mistletoe or serving at your next holiday gathering, The Mistletoe Kiss captures the magic of the season , sparkling, romantic, and delightfully refreshing.
Ingredients
For One Cocktail:
- 2 oz vodka (plain or cranberry-flavored)
- 1 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- 2 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened for a tart flavor)
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz club soda or sparkling water (for fizz)
- 1 teaspoon simple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
- Ice cubes
Garnish:
- Fresh cranberries
- Lime wheel or wedge
- Rosemary sprig (for a festive touch)
Preparation
Step 1: Chill the Glass
- Place your cocktail or martini glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to chill.
Step 2: Mix the Base
- In a cocktail shaker, add vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
Step 3: Strain and Top
- Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
- Top with club soda or sparkling water for a light fizz.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Add a few floating cranberries and a small rosemary sprig.
- Optional: Rim the glass with sugar or crushed candy cane for extra holiday sparkle.
Variations
- The Mistletoe Mocktail: Omit the vodka and triple sec, and replace with sparkling cranberry juice or ginger ale.
- Sparkling Mistletoe Kiss: Use champagne or prosecco instead of soda water for a bubbly twist.
- Frosted Kiss: Add 1 oz coconut cream and shake for a creamy, snowy look.
- Cinnamon-Infused Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for warmth.
Mixing Notes
- Use 100% cranberry juice for vibrant color and natural tartness.
- Adjust sweetness to taste , add more syrup or honey for a smoother flavor.
- Shake with plenty of ice for a crisp, refreshing chill.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in coupe or martini glasses for an elegant touch.
- Add a sugar-rimmed edge for holiday flair.
- Pair with light appetizers like baked brie, stuffed dates, or cheese boards.
- Serve in a large punch bowl for parties , just multiply the recipe by 6–8 servings.
Tips
- Chill all ingredients before mixing for the best flavor.
- For a dramatic look, freeze cranberries in ice cubes and use them in the drink.
- Make a large batch in advance and refrigerate (add the soda just before serving).
- Use rosemary as a stirrer , it releases a subtle herbal aroma.
Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 10mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make The Mistletoe Kiss in advance?
- Yes, mix the cranberry juice, vodka, and lime juice ahead of time. Add the soda and garnish right before serving.
Q2: What can I use instead of vodka?
- Gin or white rum works beautifully for a twist on the classic version.
Q3: Can I make it non-alcoholic?
- Absolutely , use sparkling cranberry juice or lemon-lime soda instead.
Q4: Can I serve it warm?
- It’s best served cold, but for a cozy version, gently warm cranberry juice and skip the soda.
Q5: What glassware is best?
- A coupe or martini glass showcases the color beautifully, but a tumbler works for casual serving.
Conclusion
The Mistletoe Kiss is more than just a cocktail , it’s a celebration in a glass. Bright, bubbly, and perfectly balanced, it’s the drink that brings cheer to any Christmas gathering. With its stunning presentation and refreshing flavor, it’s sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether enjoyed by the fire, at a festive party, or shared during a quiet winter evening, every sip feels like a kiss under the mistletoe.