There’s nothing that I enjoy more for the holidays than a festive, Christmas-inspired cocktail! This Santa Clausmopolitan is a seasonal twist on the classic Cosmopolitan (or Cosmo) cocktail that makes the drink extra festive. I like to serve it to the adults on Christmas Day!
What is the Santa Clausmopolitan Cocktail?
The Cosmopolitan cocktail has a long and storied history, so it’s no surprise that there are lots of modern day twists and variations on this classic drink!
This Santa Clausmopolitan cocktail is a holiday-inspired variation of the classic Cosmopolitan, crafted to embody festive Christmas vibes!
It combines citron vodka, cranberry juice, and triple sec, and then it’s garnished with a white sugar rim for a snowy aesthetic.
The name comes from the classic red and white look that, when served in a martini glass, reminisces of Santa Claus’ iconic hat!
Katie’s tip
If you really love the combination of cranberry and vodka flavors, then the classic Cape Codder is another must-try cocktail that fits perfectly into the holiday season!
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Santa Clausmopolitan Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces citron vodka
- ½ ounce triple sec (or another orange liqueur such as Cointreau)
- 2 ounces cranberry juice
For the Rim
- Fresh lime wedge
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar (amount approximate)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- You can also use regular vodka instead of the citron, but you should plan to add ½ ounce fresh lime juice to compensate for the flavor
- For a more tart drink, use 100% cranberry juice, and for a sweeter drink, use cranberry cocktail instead. You can also add a little simple syrup, honey, or maple syrup to balance sweetness to your preferences
- Instead of the granulated sugar for the rim, you can also use white sanding sugar, crushed candy canes, or flaked coconut if preferred
Mocktail Version
- To create a non-alcoholic mocktail version, use lemonade in place of the vodka, and a non-alcoholic triple sec syrup (or a splash of orange juice) instead of orange liqueur. I recommend 100% cranberry juice to balance the sweetness with the lemonade!
- Feel free to use a sparkling lemonade as well to add some fizzy fun to the drink
Large Batch Recipe
For a large batch recipe that makes 8 servings, here are the proportions:
- 1 ½ cups citron vodka
- ½ cup triple sec
- 2 cups cranberry juice
You can mix everything up to 24 hours in advance and store in a pitcher in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Then, simply stir, and pour into prepared (rimmed) glasses!
Step By Step Instructions
- To rim your martini glass, run the cut edge of a lime wedge around the outside rim of the glass. Then, dip the wet edge onto a plate or shallow bowl filled with the granulated sugar, and turn until well coated
- Add the vodka, triple sec, and cranberry juice to a cocktail shaker (or similar) along with a couple ice cubes
- Shake until well chilled and frothy, about 20 seconds, then strain into your prepared martini glass
- Garnish with some fresh or frozen cranberries if desired (optional) and enjoy!
More Santa Themed Cocktails
- Santa Mimosa
- Santa Hat Shot
Food Pairing Suggestions
Savory Appetizers
Pair with brie and cranberry bites, bacon wrapped asparagus, or mini turkey sliders to complement the fruity and tangy notes of the cocktail.
Cheese Boards
Include sharp cheddar, blue cheese, or creamy goat cheese with crackers and dried fruits to balance the citrusy flavors.
Desserts
Serve alongside sugar cookies, cranberry orange scones, or white chocolate peppermint bark for a sweet holiday treat.
Festive Snacks
Holiday spiced nuts, popcorn mixes, or gingerbread men are excellent for casual snacking while sipping.
Main Dishes
Pair with a glazed ham, roasted turkey tenderloin, or a holiday seafood platter for a full festive meal!
Recipe FAQs
How Is The Santa Clausmopolitan Different From A Regular Cosmopolitan?
While a regular Cosmopolitan features citron vodka, lime juice, cranberry juice, and triple sec, the Santa Clausmopolitan omits the additional citrus juice and adds a festive white sugar rim.
This change gives it a more festive look and less tart flavor profile, making it ideal for the holidays!
What Are Good Garnishes For A Santa Clausmopolitan?
To achieve the iconic Santa-themed look, rim the glass using some lime juice and granulated sugar. Alternatively, substitute shredded coconut, vanilla frosting, or crushed candy canes.
You can also wrap marshmallows around the stem to mimic Santa’s suit and add a fun, edible element. A candy cane hanging off the glass can also add a festive touch!
What Is Vodka And Cranberry Juice Called?
Vodka and cranberry juice is called a Cape Codder. Named after Cape Cod, Massachusetts, this drink highlights the tart and slightly sweet flavor of cranberry juice, balanced by the clean profile of vodka.
When you add triple sec and lime juice, that’s when the drink becomes a Cosmo instead.
What Alcohol Is Cranberry Juice Good With?
Cranberry juice pairs well with a variety of spirits due to its tartness and natural sweetness. Popular combinations are vodka (like in this Cosmopolitan), rum, or tequila.
It can also be paired with whiskey to create warm, autumnal drinks, or gin, where it pairs well with the herbal elements, especially with some rosemary.
Tips For Customizing The Santa Clausmopolitan
- Alcohol Variations: Swap the citrus vodka for other flavored options like vanilla or cranberry infused vodka to amplify the holiday theme!
- Juice Substitutes: While cranberry juice is traditional, you can experiment with pomegranate juice for a richer, slightly tart flavor. White cranberry juice is another option for a lighter, less acidic taste (though you won’t get the deep red color)
- Sweeteners: Adjust sweetness to personal tastes by adding a splash of simple syrup, or a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or agave
Fun and Festive Ways to Garnish and Serve
- Cranberry Skewers: Thread sugared or fresh cranberries onto a cocktail pick and rest it across the rim of the glass. For extra flair, alternate with small mint leaves for a red and green holiday theme!
- Rosemary Sprigs: Add a sprig of rosemary to mimic the look of a tiny Christmas tree, giving both a visual and aromatic festive touch!
- Candy Canes: Hook a mini candy cane on the rim for a playful and sweet garnish that doubles as a stirrer
- Edible Glitter: Sprinkle red edible glitter (about ⅛ tsp) into the drink or on the rim for a shimmery, magical effect
- Glassware: Serve in seasonal glassware, such as a chilled martini glass with a frosted stem or one decorated with festive decals like snowflakes or holly
Final Thoughts
This Santa Clausmopolitan is one of my favorite festive drinks to serve for the holidays! With all the classic flavors of a traditional Cosmo with a holiday spin that resembles Santa’s red coat or hat, it’s the perfect mixed drink for the adults at your next Christmas party.
It’s a balanced mix of zesty citrus with cranberry, plus a sugared rim to make it a delightfully sweet and tart cocktail that’s a perfect fruity festive drink! It’s easy to make, which is perfect for entertaining, and sure to impress your guests.
You can customize this cocktail to your liking of course by tweaking proportions, adding sweetener, and using fun and festive garnishes. So, if you’re looking for a new mixed drink to try this holiday, give the Santa Claus-mopolitan a shot!
Katie’s tip
Check out my collection of Cranberry Vodka Drinks for even more seasonal ideas plus iconic cocktails to enjoy year-round!
Santa Clausmopolitan With Vodka
Equipment
- Shaker (or similar)
- Martini glass (or similar)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces citron vodka
- ½ ounce triple sec (or another orange liqueur)
- 2 ounces cranberry juice (I use 100% cranberry juice)
For the Rim
- 1 fresh lime wedge
- 1 Tbsp granulated sugar (amount approximate)
Instructions
- To rim your martini glass, run the cut edge of a lime wedge around the outside rim of the glass. Then, dip the wet edge onto a plate or shallow bowl filled with the granulated sugar, and turn until well coated1 fresh lime wedge, 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
- Add the vodka, triple sec, and cranberry juice to a cocktail shaker (or similar) along with a couple ice cubes1 ½ ounces citron vodka, ½ ounce triple sec, 2 ounces cranberry juice
- Shake until well chilled and frothy, about 20 seconds, then strain into your prepared martini glass
- Garnish with some fresh or frozen cranberries if desired (optional) and enjoy!
Notes
- You can also use regular vodka instead of the citron, but you should plan to add ½ ounce fresh lime juice to compensate for the flavor
- For a more tart drink, use 100% cranberry juice, and for a sweeter drink, use cranberry cocktail instead. You can also add a little simple syrup, honey, or maple syrup to balance sweetness to your preferences
- Instead of the granulated sugar for the rim, you can also use white sanding sugar, crushed candy canes, or flaked coconut if preferred
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any extra garnishes added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
