This festive cocktail is a cheerful mix of flavors that gets you in the holiday spirit! With a splash of cranberry, a hint of orange, and a touch of sparkling goodness, it’s simply delightful.
Gather your friends around because this drink is perfect for sharing. I love making a big batch to spread the holiday cheer—it’s basically like liquid jingle bells in a glass! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: I recommend using unsweetened cranberry juice for a more natural tartness. If you can’t find it, you can use sweetened, but just be sure to adjust the simple syrup accordingly.
Bourbon or Spiced Rum: For a classic taste, bourbon is fantastic, but if you prefer something sweeter and festive, spiced rum fits perfectly. If you’re avoiding alcohol, try a non-alcoholic bourbon or rum alternative.
Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brings brightness to this cocktail. If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange juice works, but fresh is always better for flavor.
Simple Syrup: You can easily make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. Alternatively, honey or agave syrup can be used for a different flavor profile.
Club Soda/Sparkling Water: If you want extra flavor, try flavored sparkling water, like lemon or berry, to add a twist! It’s a fun way to enhance the drink.
How Do I Make a Deliciously Frosted Garnish?
Creating a frosted cranberry garnish adds a festive touch that’s lovely visually! It’s easier than it sounds:
- Take fresh cranberries and rinse them under cold water.
- Coat the cranberries lightly in egg white or just water.
- Roll them in granulated sugar or powdered sugar.
- Let them dry on a baking sheet. They’ll look like little jewels!
This simple garnish enhances not only the look but also brings a hint of sweetness when you nibble on them with the drink!
Making Kris Kringle’s Jingle Batch Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 cup bourbon or spiced rum
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup club soda or sparkling water (for fizz)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (optional for dusting on cranberries)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll mix the ingredients and assemble the drinks, making it a quick and fun option for your holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cocktail Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large pitcher or mixing bowl. Pour in the cranberry juice, bourbon or spiced rum, freshly squeezed orange juice, and simple syrup. Give it a good stir to combine all those lovely flavors. This is where the holiday magic begins!
2. Prepare the Glasses:
Next, fill your serving glasses halfway with ice cubes. This will keep your drink nice and cold as you sip on it!
3. Pour the Cocktail:
Now, take the delicious cocktail mixture you made earlier and pour it over the ice in each glass. Fill them about two-thirds full, leaving some room for the next step!
4. Add Some Fizz:
Top each glass gently with a splash of club soda or sparkling water. This will add a refreshing fizz that makes the drink feel extra festive!
5. Garnish with Holiday Cheer:
To make your drink even prettier, thread fresh cranberries onto a cocktail pick or skewer. Then, place a sprig of rosemary alongside the cranberries. If you’re feeling festive, you can dust the cranberries with powdered sugar for a frosted effect!
6. Final Touches:
Carefully place the crafted garnish across the rim of each glass. It’ll not only look fantastic but also add a delightful aroma when you take a sip.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Kris Kringle’s Jingle Batch Cocktail is ready to be served! Enjoy the cheerful and bright flavors with friends and family during your holiday celebrations. Cheers to a jolly good time!
Can I Use Alternate Juices in This Cocktail?
Absolutely! While cranberry juice is the main star, you can experiment with pomegranate or raspberry juice for a different twist. Just keep the overall balance of sweetness and tartness in mind!
Is It Possible to Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon or spiced rum with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or extra club soda. You could also add a splash of ginger ale for added flavor.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer your cocktails sweeter, feel free to increase the simple syrup to taste. Start with an extra tablespoon and adjust from there, tasting as you go!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cocktail?
Since this cocktail is best served fresh, it’s ideal to mix it in small batches. However, if you have leftover mixture (without the soda), you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the club soda just before serving to retain the fizz!
