Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is the perfect holiday cocktail, blending elegance with festive cheer. This drink takes the timeless Cosmopolitan—a favorite known for its balance of sweet and tart flavors—and adds a seasonal touch that evokes the warmth and magic of the holidays. With its brilliant red hue, bright cranberry and citrus notes, and a hint of holiday spice, it’s a drink that’s as enchanting as the woman it’s named after.
Ideal for Christmas parties, cozy nights by the fireplace, or as a special treat to toast the season, Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is as versatile as it is delightful. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just beginning your cocktail journey, this recipe is simple to follow and sure to impress. Let’s unwrap this holiday gem and learn how to make it, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make it your own.
Ingredients
To create Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo, you’ll need the following:
For the Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz vodka (use high-quality vodka for a smoother finish)
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 0.5 oz triple sec or orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- A pinch of ground cinnamon or a dash of cinnamon syrup (for a festive touch)
- Ice cubes
For Garnish:
- Fresh cranberries (optional, skewered on a cocktail pick)
- Orange twist or lime wedge
- Edible gold dust or sugar rim (optional, for extra holiday sparkle)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
Before mixing the cocktail, prepare your glass to make it as festive as the drink itself. If you’re adding a sugar rim, rub the rim of a martini glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into a plate of sugar or edible gold dust for a sparkling effect. Place the glass in the freezer to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, lime juice, and ground cinnamon or cinnamon syrup. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add the simple syrup. The cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and spice that makes this cocktail uniquely festive.
Step 3: Shake It Up
Add a generous amount of ice to the shaker, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously for about 15 to 20 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also ensures that all the flavors are well combined.
Step 4: Strain and Serve
Remove your prepared glass from the freezer. Using a strainer, pour the cocktail into the chilled glass. Double straining is recommended to ensure a smooth, clear cocktail free of any pulp or ice shards.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
Garnish your drink with a skewer of fresh cranberries, an orange twist, or a lime wedge. For a magical holiday presentation, sprinkle a pinch of edible glitter or gold dust on the surface of the drink.
Variations
Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is a versatile cocktail that lends itself to various interpretations. Here are some ways to customize it:
- White Christmas Cosmo: Replace the cranberry juice with white cranberry juice for a lighter, more ethereal look while retaining the tart flavor.
- Spiced Pomegranate Cosmo: Substitute cranberry juice with pomegranate juice and add a splash of spiced syrup for a deeper, richer taste.
- Mocktail Version: For a non-alcoholic version, swap the vodka and triple sec with sparkling water or a citrus-flavored soda. Use cranberry juice and lime juice as the base.
- Berry Bliss Cosmo: Add a splash of raspberry liqueur or muddled raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Herbal Holiday Cosmo: Infuse the simple syrup with rosemary or thyme for a sophisticated herbal note.
Cooking Notes
For the best results, always use freshly squeezed lime juice. Bottled lime juice can have a sharp, artificial taste that detracts from the cocktail’s balance. Opt for high-quality vodka and orange liqueur to ensure a smooth and refined flavor. If you’re using cinnamon syrup, adjust the amount based on your taste preferences—start with a small dash and add more if desired. For a festive aesthetic, chill your garnishes alongside the glass so they stay fresh and vibrant when served.
Serving Suggestions
Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is a versatile cocktail that shines at holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a signature drink for a festive dinner. Serve it alongside hors d’oeuvres like smoked salmon canapés, baked brie, or cranberry crostini to complement the cocktail’s flavors. For dessert pairings, consider light options such as cranberry-orange biscotti or spiced sugar cookies to echo the drink’s citrus and spice notes. This cocktail also works well as a pre-dinner aperitif, awakening the palate with its bright and zesty profile.
Tips
- Chill all your ingredients in advance to ensure the cocktail stays cold and refreshing.
- Experiment with the garnish to make your presentation unique—add a sprig of rosemary or use sugared cranberries for a frosty, festive touch.
- Double or triple the recipe if you’re serving a crowd, but mix each batch fresh to preserve the cocktail’s vibrant flavor.
- If you prefer a lower alcohol content, reduce the vodka to 1 ounce and increase the cranberry juice slightly.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: N/A
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 170
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 5mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can pre-mix the ingredients (except for ice and garnish) and store them in the refrigerator. Shake with ice just before serving to ensure optimal flavor and temperature.
Q: Can I use flavored vodka in this recipe?
A: Yes, flavored vodkas such as cranberry, citrus, or vanilla can add an extra layer of complexity to the drink.
Q: What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
A: A mason jar with a tight lid works as a substitute. Just be cautious when straining the drink to avoid ice shards.
Q: Can I use a different juice instead of cranberry?
A: Absolutely! Pomegranate, cherry, or raspberry juice can provide a similar tartness with unique flavor variations.
Q: How do I make the sugar rim stick better?
A: Ensure the rim of the glass is thoroughly moistened with lime juice before dipping it in sugar. Press gently to create an even coating.
Conclusion
Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is the epitome of holiday sophistication. With its dazzling color, balanced flavors, and festive flair, it’s a drink that captures the magic of the season in every sip. Whether you’re raising a glass with loved ones at a holiday party or enjoying a quiet evening by the tree, this cocktail is sure to bring a touch of sparkle to your celebrations. Easy to make yet stunning in presentation, it’s a recipe worth adding to your holiday repertoire. Gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of the season, and toast to the warmth and cheer that only Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo can deliver. Cheers!
Print
Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
To create Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo, you’ll need the following:
For the Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz vodka (use high-quality vodka for a smoother finish)
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 0.5 oz triple sec or orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- A pinch of ground cinnamon or a dash of cinnamon syrup (for a festive touch)
- Ice cubes
For Garnish:
- Fresh cranberries (optional, skewered on a cocktail pick)
- Orange twist or lime wedge
- Edible gold dust or sugar rim (optional, for extra holiday sparkle)
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
Before mixing the cocktail, prepare your glass to make it as festive as the drink itself. If you’re adding a sugar rim, rub the rim of a martini glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into a plate of sugar or edible gold dust for a sparkling effect. Place the glass in the freezer to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, lime juice, and ground cinnamon or cinnamon syrup. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add the simple syrup. The cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and spice that makes this cocktail uniquely festive.
Step 3: Shake It Up
Add a generous amount of ice to the shaker, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously for about 15 to 20 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also ensures that all the flavors are well combined.
Step 4: Strain and Serve
Remove your prepared glass from the freezer. Using a strainer, pour the cocktail into the chilled glass. Double straining is recommended to ensure a smooth, clear cocktail free of any pulp or ice shards.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
Garnish your drink with a skewer of fresh cranberries, an orange twist, or a lime wedge. For a magical holiday presentation, sprinkle a pinch of edible glitter or gold dust on the surface of the drink.
Notes
For the best results, always use freshly squeezed lime juice. Bottled lime juice can have a sharp, artificial taste that detracts from the cocktail’s balance. Opt for high-quality vodka and orange liqueur to ensure a smooth and refined flavor. If you’re using cinnamon syrup, adjust the amount based on your taste preferences—start with a small dash and add more if desired. For a festive aesthetic, chill your garnishes alongside the glass so they stay fresh and vibrant when served.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
Nutrition
- Calories: 170
- Sodium: 5mg
- Protein: 0g