As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to prepare for the celebrations that bring family and friends together. A well-crafted cocktail can add a touch of joy and warmth to these gatherings, and Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is the perfect choice for the occasion. This holiday-inspired take on the classic Cosmopolitan embodies the spirit of Christmas, with a vibrant red hue, a hint of sweetness, and just the right amount of tartness to keep it refreshing. Served with frosty garnishes, Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is not just a drink—it’s a festive experience that adds sparkle to your holiday spread. So, raise a glass to Mrs. Claus and celebrate the season with a cocktail that captures the magic of Christmas!
A Little Background: The Cosmopolitan’s Origin
Before diving into Mrs. Claus’ special twist, let’s take a look at the origin of the classic Cosmopolitan. Often associated with the glamour of the 1990s, the Cosmopolitan gained fame as the signature cocktail in popular culture. Its appealing pink hue, balanced with citrus and berry flavors, became an icon of sophistication and was famously enjoyed by characters in shows like Sex and the City. The original ingredients—vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime—created a delightful blend of flavors that many fell in love with.
With Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo, we’re building upon this iconic cocktail by adding a few holiday touches to make it even more delightful and seasonally appropriate. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo, you’ll need the following ingredients to capture the essence of the holidays. Each element plays an important role in balancing flavor, color, and overall festive charm.
Core Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka – A neutral vodka works best, but feel free to experiment with a cranberry- or vanilla-flavored vodka for added depth.
- 1 oz triple sec – This orange-flavored liqueur adds a citrusy note that balances the tart cranberry. Popular choices include Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
- 1 oz cranberry juice – Provides both the holiday red hue and a touch of sweetness to the cocktail.
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for a bright, zesty twist. It also balances the sweetness of the cranberry juice.
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional) – If you prefer a sweeter drink, simple syrup adds a touch of holiday warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Ice cubes – Necessary for shaking and chilling the cocktail to perfection.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cranberries – Freeze these beforehand to double as edible “ice cubes” that won’t dilute the drink.
- Lime wheel or twist – Adds visual interest and a hint of citrus aroma.
- Edible glitter or sanding sugar for rim – Adds a frosty sparkle for that winter wonderland look.
Preparation
Preparing Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is simple and can be done in minutes, perfect for entertaining or even as a special treat after a long day of holiday preparations.
Step 1: Rim your glass with festive flair. For a frosty effect, dip the rim of a martini or coupe glass in a bit of lime juice, then press it into a plate of sanding sugar or edible glitter. This step adds an eye-catching sparkle that brings holiday cheer right to your fingertips.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, add a generous handful of ice cubes. The ice will chill the drink as you shake, ensuring it’s cool and refreshing from the first sip to the last.
Step 3: Pour the vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup into the shaker. This combination of ingredients creates a vibrant, flavorful drink that balances tart and sweet.
Step 4: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This ensures all the ingredients blend together, and the drink is perfectly chilled. The cocktail shaker should feel cold to the touch when it’s ready.
Step 5: Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass. To achieve a smooth drink with no ice shards, use a fine strainer or double strain as you pour. This will enhance the presentation and provide a velvety texture.
Step 6: Garnish with frozen cranberries for a festive look and a lime wheel or twist on the side. The cranberries will keep your drink cool, adding both function and beauty to the cocktail.
Variations on Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo
There are many ways to customize this cocktail, depending on your preference or to create a variety of holiday drinks for your guests.
- Frosted Cranberry Cosmo: Add a splash of white cranberry juice for a lighter, wintery look. White cranberry juice has a subtler flavor, which works well for those who prefer a less tart drink.
- Sparkling Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo: Top the drink with a splash of prosecco or sparkling water for a bubbly, celebratory feel.
- Gingered Cosmo: Include a hint of ginger syrup or a slice of fresh ginger in the shaker for a warming winter flavor that complements the cranberry and lime.
- Cinnamon Spice Cosmo: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cocktail shaker before shaking to introduce warm, spicy notes that enhance the holiday ambiance.
Cooking Note
Using fresh ingredients makes a huge difference in the quality of your cocktail. Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a brightness that complements the flavors perfectly. If possible, opt for 100% cranberry juice rather than cranberry cocktail juice to avoid added sugars that can change the drink’s flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo in a classic martini or coupe glass for an elegant presentation. Arrange a few fresh cranberries or lime wedges around the base of each glass to elevate the presentation on your holiday table. For larger gatherings, you might consider setting up a DIY garnish station with an assortment of edible glitter, sanding sugar, and different garnishes so guests can customize their cocktails to their taste.
Tips for the Perfect Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo
- Double-Strain for Smoothness: For a flawless, smooth cocktail, double-strain as you pour into the glass to remove any ice shards.
- Freeze Your Cranberries: Using frozen cranberries as ice cubes is a clever way to chill your drink without diluting it. They also look beautiful in the glass.
- Experiment with Flavored Vodkas: Try cranberry or vanilla-flavored vodka to add a new dimension to your cocktail. Each flavor brings its own twist, creating a unique taste.
- Adjust Sweetness with Simple Syrup: If you enjoy a sweeter drink, add a bit more simple syrup to taste. This customization makes it easy to adapt to individual preferences.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: None
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Protein: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this drink in advance for a party?
A: Yes, you can mix the ingredients (minus the ice) and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply shake with ice and garnish.
Q: How can I make this recipe non-alcoholic?
A: Substitute the vodka with cranberry juice and the triple sec with orange juice or orange-flavored sparkling water. You’ll still have a beautiful holiday drink with a festive red color and refreshing flavor.
Q: What can I use as an alternative to triple sec?
A: If you don’t have triple sec, try using another orange liqueur like Grand Marnier, which has a rich flavor and a hint of warmth. For a non-alcoholic option, substitute with orange juice.
Conclusion
Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is a delightful cocktail that brings holiday joy to any setting. With its vibrant color, perfectly balanced flavors, and festive garnishes, this cocktail is bound to be a hit at holiday gatherings or as a solo indulgence during a cozy night in. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or a beginner looking to try something special, this festive Cosmo is easy to make, fun to garnish, and delightful to sip. So, toast to the season with a cocktail that’s sure to leave a memorable impression—cheers to holiday spirit with Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo!
PrintMrs. Claus’ Cosmo
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
For Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo, you’ll need the following ingredients to capture the essence of the holidays. Each element plays an important role in balancing flavor, color, and overall festive charm.
Core Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka – A neutral vodka works best, but feel free to experiment with a cranberry- or vanilla-flavored vodka for added depth.
- 1 oz triple sec – This orange-flavored liqueur adds a citrusy note that balances the tart cranberry. Popular choices include Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
- 1 oz cranberry juice – Provides both the holiday red hue and a touch of sweetness to the cocktail.
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for a bright, zesty twist. It also balances the sweetness of the cranberry juice.
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional) – If you prefer a sweeter drink, simple syrup adds a touch of holiday warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Ice cubes – Necessary for shaking and chilling the cocktail to perfection.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cranberries – Freeze these beforehand to double as edible “ice cubes” that won’t dilute the drink.
- Lime wheel or twist – Adds visual interest and a hint of citrus aroma.
- Edible glitter or sanding sugar for rim – Adds a frosty sparkle for that winter wonderland look.
Instructions
Preparation
Preparing Mrs. Claus’ Cosmo is simple and can be done in minutes, perfect for entertaining or even as a special treat after a long day of holiday preparations.
Step 1: Rim your glass with festive flair. For a frosty effect, dip the rim of a martini or coupe glass in a bit of lime juice, then press it into a plate of sanding sugar or edible glitter. This step adds an eye-catching sparkle that brings holiday cheer right to your fingertips.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, add a generous handful of ice cubes. The ice will chill the drink as you shake, ensuring it’s cool and refreshing from the first sip to the last.
Step 3: Pour the vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup into the shaker. This combination of ingredients creates a vibrant, flavorful drink that balances tart and sweet.
Step 4: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This ensures all the ingredients blend together, and the drink is perfectly chilled. The cocktail shaker should feel cold to the touch when it’s ready.
Step 5: Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass. To achieve a smooth drink with no ice shards, use a fine strainer or double strain as you pour. This will enhance the presentation and provide a velvety texture.
Step 6: Garnish with frozen cranberries for a festive look and a lime wheel or twist on the side. The cranberries will keep your drink cool, adding both function and beauty to the cocktail.
Notes
Using fresh ingredients makes a huge difference in the quality of your cocktail. Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a brightness that complements the flavors perfectly. If possible, opt for 100% cranberry juice rather than cranberry cocktail juice to avoid added sugars that can change the drink’s flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Sodium: 0g
- Protein: 0g