Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Martinis are made with vodka, cranberry juice cocktail, fresh cranberries, orange zest, Triple Sec, and sugar. This recipe creates a festive, fruity cocktail perfect for the holidays. It takes about 2 days and 10 minutes to prepare and serves 6 drinks.
Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Martinis Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 6 (1 × 3-inch) strips of orange zest, plus extra for serving
- 1 (750 ml) bottle good vodka, such as Grey Goose
- 1 cup cranberry juice cocktail, preferably tart
- ¼ cup Triple Sec
- Ice
How To Make Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Martinis
- Simmer the Cranberry Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine sugar, cranberries, orange zest, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until cranberries begin to pop.
- Infuse the Vodka: Pour vodka into a large pitcher. Add the cranberry mixture and refrigerate, covered, for at least 2 days and up to 5 days.
- Strain the Infusion: When ready to serve, strain the mixture, reserving the cranberries and discarding the zest.
- Mix the Cocktail: Stir in cranberry juice cocktail and Triple Sec.
- Shake and Serve: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add the drink mixture, shake for 30 seconds, and strain into martini glasses. Rub each rim with orange zest and add a few cranberries before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Infuse in Advance: The vodka needs at least 2 days to absorb the cranberry and orange flavors.
- Use Good Vodka: A smooth, quality vodka like Grey Goose enhances the drink’s balance.
- Shake Well: A full 30-second shake ensures proper chilling and dilution.
- Chill Glasses: For a frosty presentation, chill martini glasses before serving.
- Festive Garnish: Extra cranberries and orange zest curls make for beautiful presentation.
What To Serve With Cranberry Martinis
These martinis pair wonderfully with savory appetizers like brie and crackers, spiced nuts, shrimp cocktail, or charcuterie. They also complement Thanksgiving or holiday dinners beautifully.
How To Store Cranberry Martinis
Refrigerate: Store the prepared cocktail mixture in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Shake with ice just before serving.
Freeze: Not recommended due to dilution and flavor changes.
Cranberry Martinis Nutrition Facts
Estimated per serving:
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
FAQs
How long can I infuse the vodka?
Infuse for at least 2 days and up to 5 days for optimal flavor.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, just make sure to simmer them until they start to pop.
What if I don’t have Triple Sec?
You can substitute with Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes, use cranberry juice, orange juice, and a splash of sparkling water.
Should I serve it cold?
Absolutely—shake with ice and serve ice cold for best taste.
Try More Recipes:
- Barefoot Contessa Jalapeño Margaritas
- Barefoot Contessa Summer Rosé Sangria
- Barefoot Contessa Aperol Spritzer
Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Martinis
Description
A festive holiday martini made with cranberry-infused vodka, orange zest, and a splash of citrus liqueur.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, cranberries, orange zest, and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour vodka into a large pitcher, add cranberry mixture, and refrigerate for 2 to 5 days.
- Strain vodka, reserving cranberries and discarding zest.
- Stir in cranberry juice and Triple Sec.
- Shake with ice and strain into martini glasses. Garnish with zest and cranberries. Serve ice cold.