This refreshing cranberry gin and tonic is the perfect drink for any gathering! The tartness of cranberry juice mixes beautifully with gin and fizzy tonic water.
It’s easy to make and so tasty! Just mix everything in a glass and add ice. I love to garnish mine with a sprig of mint for a pop of color and flavor. Cheers!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Gin: A classic London dry gin works best for this cocktail, but you could also try a flavored gin, like cucumber or lavender, for a twist. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version, consider using a quality non-alcoholic gin alternative.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend using unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice to keep the drink refreshing without being overly sugary. You can substitute it with pomegranate juice for a slightly different flavor.
Tonic Water: Regular tonic is great, but flavored tonic waters, like elderflower or Mediterranean, can add a unique touch. If you want to reduce sugar, try tonic water labeled as “low-calorie” or “diet.”
Fresh Herbs: I love using rosemary for a fragrant garnish, but mint works equally well. Try both and see which you prefer!
How Do I Make the Best Cocktail with Crushed Ice?
Using crushed ice gives your cocktail a nice, frosty appearance and helps keep it cold. Here’s how to crush ice effectively:
- Place ice cubes in a zip-top bag and seal it tightly.
- Use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently pound the ice until it’s crushed.
- Alternatively, you can use an ice crusher if you have one; they make the process easy!
Once you have your crushed ice, fill your glass generously. It’ll keep your drink cold without watering it down too quickly.
How to Make a Cranberry Gin And Tonic Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 3 oz tonic water
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Crushed ice
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Fresh rosemary or mint sprig (for garnish)
- Lime slice (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This cranberry gin and tonic cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy drink that’s perfect for enjoying at home or serving at a party!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by filling a rocks glass with crushed ice. This will make your drink cold and refreshing, perfect for sipping on a warm day!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Pour the gin and cranberry juice over the ice in the glass. The lovely pink color will start to show right away.
3. Add Lime Juice:
Now, squeeze in the fresh lime juice. This adds a zesty flavor that pairs nicely with the gin and cranberry. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
4. Top with Tonic Water:
Carefully pour the tonic water into the glass to give it a little fizz. Stir again gently to mix it in without losing the bubbles.
5. Garnish Your Cocktail:
For a beautiful presentation, add a slice of lime to the edge of the glass. Toss in some fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary or mint on top for an extra touch of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cocktail immediately! Enjoy the refreshing taste of your homemade cranberry gin and tonic!
Can I Use Another Type of Juice Instead of Cranberry?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cranberry juice, you can substitute it with pomegranate juice, orange juice, or even grapefruit juice for a different flavor twist.
Can I Make This Cocktail in a Pitcher?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, mix in a pitcher, and serve over ice. Add tonic water just before serving to keep the fizz.
How Can I Sweeten the Cocktail?
If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a splash of simple syrup or agave nectar along with the lime juice. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs for Garnish?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can either skip the garnish or use dried herbs sparingly. Alternatively, citrus peels make a lovely garnish if you’re looking for something to add aroma and flavor without herbs.
