Cranberry Mint Cocktail is a sparkling, minty, and sweet mocktail—light, refreshing, and perfect to serve at a holiday gathering.
This year, skip plain water or soda and serve a festive Cranberry Mint Mocktail at your Christmas party. Its vibrant red color and bright mint garnish make it look holiday-ready, and it’s truly quick and simple to prepare. You can mix up individual servings in seconds or batch it for a crowd.
If you can find cranberry sparkling water, use it for added fizz. Otherwise, make sparkling cranberry water using the recipe below or substitute lemon-lime soda for a sweeter drink. This mocktail is kid-friendly but easily spiked with alcohol if you prefer an adult version.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes—frozen cranberries work well and are often easier to find. They also act like mini ice cubes, helping to keep drinks cold without diluting the flavor.
Can You Add Alcohol?
Absolutely. Add a shot or two of vodka or light rum to turn this mocktail into a festive cocktail for adults. It’s a great option for holiday parties and gatherings.
Can I Use a Homemade Mint Syrup?
Yes. Homemade mint syrup (simple syrup infused with fresh mint) is a lovely option if you enjoy making syrups from scratch. Store-bought mint or peppermint syrups also work and are widely available.
Ingredients
The printable recipe card with measurements and instructions appears below.
- Cranberries — fresh or frozen for a festive pop of color.
- Cranberry Juice — use regular cranberry or try cranberry blends (grape, raspberry) for a different flavor profile.
- Sparkling Water — provides light fizz; substitute lemon-lime soda if you prefer a sweeter drink.
- Mint Syrup — adds a cooling, sweet mint note that pairs beautifully with cranberry.
- Ice — crushed ice or cubes to keep the mocktail chilled.
How to Make Cranberry Mocktail
Combine cranberry juice, sparkling water, and mint syrup in a large measuring cup or pitcher and stir until well blended.
Fill glasses with crushed ice and fresh or frozen cranberries. Pour the mocktail over the ice, then garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. The recipe below makes two servings; scale up for a larger batch.
Can I Make in Advance?
Yes. Prepare the mixture in a pitcher and refrigerate, leaving out the ice and garnish. When ready to serve, pour into glasses over ice and add cranberries and mint sprigs for a fresh presentation.
Holiday Appetizers
- Vegetable Pizza — a light, fresh option to serve alongside the mocktail.
- Keto Cheese Balls — savory, creamy bites for keto-friendly guests.
- Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts — salty and crunchy party favorites.
- Chicken Bundles — soft dough wrapped around savory chicken for a heartier appetizer.
This Cranberry Mint Mocktail is effortless and versatile—perfect in winter or made with frozen cranberries any time of year. It’s festive, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Holiday Drinks
- Grinch Mint Cocktail
- Pretty in Pink Punch
- Spiced Cranberry Punch
- Homemade Eggnog
- Christmas Punch
- Shirley Temple
Cranberry Mint Mocktail
Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ¼ cup sparkling water
- 2 tbsp mint syrup
- 8–16 frozen or fresh cranberries
- Sprigs of fresh mint
- Crushed ice or ice cubes
Instructions
- In a large measuring cup or pitcher, combine cranberry juice, sparkling water, and mint syrup. Stir until well combined.
- Fill two glasses with crushed ice and cranberries, then divide the mixture between the glasses.
- Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint and serve.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 162 g
| Protein: 5 g
| Fat: 1 g
Nutrition information is an estimate and should not replace professional advice.