Save It This Cranberry Rosemary Spritzer is my go-to when I want a festive drink that feels special yet comes together effortlessly. The combination of tart cranberry and fragrant rosemary is bubbly enough for celebrations but simple enough for a quiet night in. It works beautifully with or without alcohol and shines at any time of year.
Every year my friends ask for this recipe after the first sip at our holiday get-togethers. I first whipped it up for a last-minute brunch and it quickly became a tradition that everyone looks forward to.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries: They provide a splash of bright color and a tangy bite Use ripe firm cranberries for best results
- Sparkling water or club soda: Lends the signature fizz Choose one with extra bubbles for added effervescence
- Cranberry juice: Delivers the tart flavor Look for one labeled 100 percent juice for the purest taste
- Fresh rosemary sprigs: Add woodsy herbal fragrance and a striking visual Pick vibrant green sprigs without dried tips
- Lime juice: Brings acidity and lift Squeeze juice from plump heavy limes for maximum yield
- Optional Sweetener: Balances tartness if desired Use a drizzle of honey maple syrup or agave as preferred
- Vodka or gin: Optional for an adult version Choose a clean crisp spirit if adding alcohol
Instructions
- Make the Rosemary Syrup:
- Simmer equal parts water and sugar with a few fresh rosemary sprigs over low heat Swirl gently until the sugar fully dissolves and the rosemary is fragrant about three minutes. Strain out the leaves and let cool completely before using for the drink
- Mix the Base:
- Combine cranberry juice freshly squeezed lime juice and a tablespoon of the rosemary syrup in a large pitcher. Add a handful of fresh cranberries and a couple of rosemary sprigs then gently muddle with the back of a spoon to release flavors
- Add Sparkle:
- Pour in cold sparkling water or club soda right before serving. If you prefer an adult version add a splash of vodka or gin at this stage. Stir gently to combine and keep all the fizz
- Serve and Garnish:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the spritzer over the ice. Garnish each glass with a rosemary sprig a few cranberries and a thin lime slice for color
Save It One of my favorite touches is the rosemary syrup which fills the kitchen with an incredible aroma every time I make it. Last Thanksgiving my niece helped with the garnishes and we both ended up giggling over our lopsided sprigs yet every glass looked so inviting.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover rosemary syrup sealed in the fridge for up to two weeks It also flavors lemonade or tea beautifully. Mix only as much spritzer as you plan to drink so it stays bubbly and fresh on serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try pomegranate juice if you are out of cranberry or swap thyme or mint for rosemary for a different herbal vibe. Lemon juice brings a slightly sweeter sourness than lime if that is your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in tall glasses over lots of ice or create a big punch bowl at parties Garnishing is key since the cranberries and herbs make each glass festive. For special occasions try adding a splash of prosecco instead of sparkling water.
Cultural and Historical Context
Cranberries have long played a part in North American holiday tables Their tart freshness and deep red jewel color signal the start of festive gatherings. Rosemary is often linked to memory and celebration in many cultures so they pair beautifully in a toasting drink.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use frozen cranberries when fresh are not available Switch out cranberries for orange slices in the spring Use sparkling apple cider for fall gatherings
Success Stories
My neighbor made this for her book club using a mix of gin and club soda and her friends asked for a second pitcher. I have also poured these for brunches and watched everyone light up as they sipped. It is the kind of drink that makes the everyday feel a little more special.
Freezer Meal Conversion
The rosemary syrup can be made in advance and frozen in ice cube trays. Pop a cube into your pitcher as you prepare the drink for easy flavor without extra steps.
Save It Make this spritzer the centerpiece of your next celebration or quiet evening. Its color and aroma never fail to impress and every glass feels like a special treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you enhance the rosemary flavor?
Infuse the rosemary by muddling it gently with cranberries or simmering in a simple syrup before mixing.
- → Can this beverage be made ahead?
Prepare the cranberry-rosemary mixture in advance and add sparkling water just before serving for best fizz.
- → What type of cranberries should be used?
Fresh or frozen cranberries work well. Avoid sweetened dried varieties for a more natural tart flavor.
- → Are there optional garnishes to consider?
Garnish with extra rosemary sprigs, whole cranberries, or a citrus twist for added aroma and visual appeal.
- → How can this spritzer be made alcoholic?
Add vodka or gin for a light cocktail variation, adjusting quantities to taste and occasion.