Name: Christmas Gin Fizz: A Festive Cranberry and Rosemary Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for rim); 5 ounces dry gin; 5 ounces cranberry juice; 1 tablespoon simple syrup; 1 cup fresh ice cubes; 2 ounces club soda; 1/4 cup sugared cranberries; 2 sprigs rosemary

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Introduction

Celebrate the holidays with a delightful Christmas Gin Fizz, a refreshing cocktail bursting with vibrant cranberry and zesty lemon flavors. Its fizzy, botanical character makes it perfect for toasting festive moments with friends and family.

A short clear glass with a diamond pattern filled with a three-layered drink sits on a wooden slice; the bottom layer is a deep red, the middle layer is a light pink mix, and the top layer is crushed ice with a white frosted rim. On top of the ice are a bunch of small shiny red ornaments slightly dusted with white powder and a small green rosemary sprig. Around the glass are some pine needles and more red ornaments on a white marbled surface with soft glowing lights in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for rim)
5 ounces dry gin
5 ounces cranberry juice
1 tablespoon simple syrup
1 cup fresh ice cubes
2 ounces club soda
1/4 cup sugared cranberries (for garnish)
2 sprigs rosemary (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare two small plates—one with lemon juice and the other with granulated sugar to create the cocktail rims.
Step 2: Wet the rim of a lowball glass with lemon juice. Dip it into the granulated sugar, turning to coat evenly. Repeat with the second glass and set aside.
Step 3: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add dry gin, cranberry juice, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
Step 4: Fill each prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain half of the gin mixture into one glass, then top with club soda. Repeat with the second glass.
Step 5: Garnish each drink with sugared cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Christmas Gin Fizz.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
For a sweeter twist, substitute lemon juice with fresh orange juice.
Add fresh basil or mint in the shaker for an herbal infusion.
Replace club soda with sparkling wine for a more elegant touch.
Include a dash of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced version.
Try mixing in raspberry or blackberry juice for a berry blend.
Create a non-alcoholic version by swapping gin with tonic water or a non-alcoholic spirit.
Blend the ingredients with ice for a frozen, slushy variation.

Storage

Store leftover cocktail ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, mix gin, cranberry juice, and lemon juice and freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and serve over fresh ice. Keep garnishes like cranberries and rosemary fresh in a small container for best presentation.

How to Serve

A clear glass with a diamond pattern holds a festive drink with three visible layers: a deep red layer sits at the bottom, blending into a light pink middle, topped with crushed ice that appears frosty and white. The rim of the glass is rimmed with white sugar crystals. On top of the ice, there are red Christmas ornament balls clustered together with some green leaves for decoration, all lightly dusted with white powdered sugar. The glass sits on a round wooden board, surrounded by green fir branches, and small red ornaments also dusted with powdered sugar. The background is a soft blur of warm yellow lights and a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of lemon juice should I use?

Always choose freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest and most authentic flavor. It elevates the cocktail better than pre-bottled lemon juice, which may contain preservatives or additives.

Can I freeze the Christmas Gin Fizz ingredients?

Yes, you can freeze a mixture of the gin, cranberry juice, and lemon juice for up to one month in an airtight container. Thaw it in the fridge before serving over ice with club soda and garnish.