The Cosmopolitan is a bright, polished American bar classic combining vodka, cranberry, orange liqueur, and fresh lime in a vivid pink cocktail.
Shaking the ingredients with plenty of ice chills the drink quickly and gives the citrus a lively, silky texture. Fresh lime keeps the sweetness in check.
Use unsweetened cranberry juice if you prefer a sharper drink, or add a teaspoon of simple syrup when using very tart juice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve immediately in a chilled martini or coupe glass with an orange twist, alongside salty snacks or light appetizers.
Recipe Notes
For a clean citrus aroma, express the orange peel over the surface before placing it on the rim.
Classic Cosmopolitan Cocktail
A crisp pink cocktail of vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and fresh lime finished with orange zest.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Shake:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup if using.
- Shake hard for 10 to 15 seconds, until the shaker is frosty.
Strain and garnish:
- Double-strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Express an orange twist over the surface and place it on the rim.
Nutrition
Notes
- Fresh lime juice makes the biggest difference in this simple cocktail.
- Chill the glass in the freezer for a few minutes while measuring the ingredients.
