This Christmas Vodka Martini is a festive twist on the classic drink! It’s bright red, thanks to cranberry juice, making it perfect for holiday cheer.
Mix it up with some vodka and a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got a party in a glass. I love serving these at family gatherings—everyone gets in the holiday spirit with just one sip!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: It’s key for the base flavor. I recommend a good quality vodka for a smooth taste. If you want a flavored twist, consider using a cranberry-flavored vodka!
Dry Vermouth: This adds depth and aroma. If you don’t have it, dry white wine can be a great substitute. Prosecco or champagne can work too for some bubbles!
Cranberries: These are perfect for garnish and bring a festive look. If you can’t find fresh ones, look for frozen cranberries. They work just as well and are often available year-round.
Fresh Rosemary: This herb adds an aromatic touch. If you don’t have rosemary, a sprig of thyme can give a lovely twist. Mint is also a refreshing alternate option.
How Do You Get Your Martini Perfectly Chilled?
Chilling your glasses and mixing ingredients properly is crucial for a great martini. Here’s how to do it:
- Place your glasses in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This keeps your drink cold longer.
- In the shaker, combine vodka and vermouth, and then add a good amount of ice. Stir gently but enough to chill the drink without watering it down too much.
- When straining into your chilled glass, do so quickly to maintain that crisp temperature!
How to Make a Christmas Vodka Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz dry vermouth or sparkling white wine
- Fresh cranberries (about 8-10 per glass)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Christmas Vodka Martini takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Enjoy sipping on this festive drink in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill the Glasses:
Start by placing your martini or coupe glasses in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Chilling the glasses helps keep your drink cold and refreshing.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab a cocktail shaker and pour in the vodka and dry vermouth (or sparkling white wine if you prefer). This adds a fun fizz to your drink!
3. Add Ice and Stir:
Add sufficient ice cubes to the shaker. Stir the mixture gently for about 15-20 seconds to chill it nicely. Be careful not to shake it vigorously, as we don’t want to dilute the drink too much!
4. Strain into Glasses:
Once your mixture is nicely chilled, take your glasses out of the freezer. Using a strainer, pour the vodka mixture into each glass, filling them up to the rim.
5. Float the Cranberries:
Now it’s time to add some holiday cheer! Gently float fresh cranberries on top of each drink—this not only looks festive but adds a nice pop of flavor.
6. Garnish with Rosemary:
Finish off your martini with a sprig of fresh rosemary. It adds a lovely scent and makes your drink look extra special for the season!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Christmas Vodka Martinis are ready! Serve them immediately, and enjoy the holiday spirit with each sip of this deliciously festive cocktail!
Can I Use Different Spirits in This Martini?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you could try substituting gin for vodka. This will give your martini a classic twist! For a sweeter option, flavored vodkas like vanilla or cranberry can add a nice touch.
How Can I Make This Non-Alcoholic?
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the vodka with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. You can still use cranberry juice for that lovely festive color and flavor!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to serve the martini fresh for that chilled taste, you can prepare the vodka and vermouth mixture a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just stir with ice and garnish right before serving for the best experience!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers (though unlikely!), store the mixed vodka and vermouth in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best enjoyed freshly made to appreciate the flavors and fizziness!
