How sweet is this drink?

It's lightly sweet, and the simple syrup helps balance the tartness of the cranberry juice, but the nice thing is that you can adjust it to your own personal preference. I tend to prefer mine less sweet, but I would recommend mixing the drink as written and trying it. If it needs more sweetness, simply stir in some more simple syrup.

Can I buy rosemary simple syrup?

Yes, it's incredibly easy to make at home, but you can also order it or check your local specialty stores that might have something similar. I have not personally tried this option, but it's made with simple ingredients, minimal preservatives, and has good reviews.

Can I use fresh cranberries?

Yes! If you've got fresh cranberries from holiday celebrations, you should garnish the drink with a few or you could even make cranberry ice cubes by putting a few fresh cranberries in an ice mold and topping with water. They'll be a beautiful addition to the drink.

Can I make a bulk batch of this easy cranberry mocktail recipe?

Yes, you can make a batch of this drink. Simply combine the cranberry juice and rosemary simple syrup in a pitcher. If you're serving this at a party, put out some simple directions to pour cranberry mixture over ice and top with soda water, and garnish with rosemary. The bubbles tend to lose their strength, so I wouldn't recommend serving in a punch bowl.

Cranberry Mocktail Spritzer (Festive, Bubbly, & Fun!)

Description

This cranberry mocktail is made with tart cranberry juice, rosemary simple syrup, and bubbly soda water for a refreshing and festive drink.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1/3 cup cranberry juice
1/2 oz. rosemary simple syrup (1 Tablespoon)
soda water
lime slices
rosemary sprigs

Rosemary Simple Syrup:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
4 rosemary sprigs (a sprig is a whole stem, not single leaves)

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Instructions

Make rosemary simple syrup. Bring sugar, water, and rosemary to a boil over medium heat in a small saucepan. Remove from heat and let cool. Remove rosemary and discard. Store simple syrup in the refrigerator for about 3-4 weeks.
Fill a tall or highball glass with crushed ice and add lime slices to the glass. Add cranberry juice and rosemary simple syrup and gently stir.
Top with soda water and garnish with rosemary sprigs.

Notes

Storage: This drink is best served immediately. Store the rosemary simple syrup in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks.

Ingredient notes: 100% cranberry juice provides the best flavor, but cranberry cocktail works if you prefer sweeter drinks.

Prep ahead: Make simple syrup a few days in advance, prep garnishes, and chill cranberry juice and soda water ahead of time for quick assembly when guests arrive.

Serve with: Trader Joe’s charcuterie board, cranberry jalapeno cream cheese dip, or whipped feta dip.