Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour

Fall is in the air, and that crisp, cozy feeling makes me want to curl up with a drink that feels just as seasonal as the pumpkin-spiced everything crowding the cafes. Enter the cranberry orange whiskey sour—a cocktail that somehow captures the warmth of autumn evenings and the festive spirit of the holidays all in one glass. Its tangy cranberry notes paired with the bright citrus of orange create a perfect balance that’s lively yet comforting.

This cocktail isn’t just for show. The rich depth of whiskey, mellowed by a touch of sweetness, makes every sip smooth and inviting. I love how it walks the line between a refreshing cocktail and a hearty drink that feels like it belongs at a holiday gathering. Pouring one of these into a glass, garnished with a twist of orange or a few floating cranberries, instantly feels like celebration.

What makes the cranberry orange whiskey sour stand out is its versatility. It’s equally at home on a quiet night by the fire as it is at a Thanksgiving table surrounded by family. This drink brings together fall’s best flavors—cranberry tang, citrus brightness, and the comforting warmth of whiskey—making it a must-have addition to your collection of fall drinks with whiskey.

I’ve tried a few versions over the years, but this cranberry whiskey sour recipe nails the balance every time. It’s not too sweet, not too tart, and just boozy enough to feel special without being overpowering. It’s quickly become my go-to Thanksgiving cocktail and a reliable favorite whenever I want a drink that feels both festive and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love It

• Perfect balance of flavors – The tangy cranberries and bright orange juice play beautifully against the warmth of whiskey, creating a cocktail that’s both refreshing and cozy. Each sip feels layered and lively.
• Ideal for fall and holiday gatherings – Whether it’s a Thanksgiving brunch or a casual autumn evening with friends, this cocktail fits right in. It instantly elevates any table or happy hour setup.
• Easy to make, impressive to serve – Don’t let the fancy look fool you. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a cocktail that looks like it came from a high-end bar.
• Versatile garnish options – From a simple orange twist to a few fresh cranberries floating on top, you can make the presentation as festive or as minimalist as you like.
• A twist on a classic favorite – If you love a traditional whiskey sour, the cranberry orange variation gives it a seasonal, slightly tangy lift that makes it feel new without straying from the classic charm.

Ingredient List

For the Cocktail:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 oz fresh cranberry juice
• ¾ oz fresh orange juice
• ½ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes

For Garnish:

• Orange twist or slice
• Fresh cranberries

Ingredient Notes

• I always use fresh cranberry juice instead of bottled cocktail mixes—it keeps the drink bright and tangy.
• Don’t skip the fresh orange juice! It makes the cranberry whiskey sour feel vibrant and perfectly balanced.
• For the whiskey, I reach for bourbon because it adds just the right warmth, but rye works beautifully too if you like a slightly spicier kick.
• Simple syrup can be adjusted depending on how sweet or tart you like your cocktails. I usually keep it light so the fruit flavors shine.
• Fresh cranberries for garnish aren’t just cute—they add a festive pop of color that makes this Thanksgiving cocktail feel extra special.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker – Essential for mixing the cranberry whiskey sour smoothly; I love my weighted stainless steel one for a solid shake.
• Jigger or measuring spoons – Helps get the perfect balance of whiskey, juices, and syrup every time.
• Citrus juicer – Fresh orange and lemon juice make all the difference; I swear by my handheld press for quick squeezing.
• Strainer – Keeps ice and pulp out of your glass for a clean, elegant pour.
• Old-fashioned or rocks glass – Perfect for serving this cocktail over ice; it gives that classic whiskey vibe.
• Bar spoon – For gentle stirring if you want a slightly lighter mix without shaking too much.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Measure out 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz cranberry juice, ¾ oz orange juice, ½ oz lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup.
• Slice an orange for garnish and pick a few fresh cranberries if you’re using them.
• Pro tip: Always juice citrus right before making your cocktail—pre-bottled juice can make the drink taste flat.

Step 2: Fill the Shaker

• Add all the liquid ingredients to your cocktail shaker.
• Fill the shaker about halfway with ice cubes.
• Pro tip: Use fresh, large ice cubes if possible—they melt slower and keep the cocktail from getting watered down too quickly.

Step 3: Shake it Up

• Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds.
• You want the outside of the shaker to feel cold and slightly frosty.
• Pro tip: Shake with a firm wrist motion to fully mix the cranberry and citrus flavors with the whiskey.

Step 4: Strain into Glass

• Place a strainer over your shaker and pour the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
• Make sure none of the small ice shards or pulp get in—it keeps the drink smooth and pretty.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Add an orange twist or slice and float a few fresh cranberries on top.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!
• Pro tip: Run the orange twist around the rim of the glass before dropping it in to release extra aroma.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Always use freshly squeezed citrus juice for the brightest, most balanced flavor.
• Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the cocktail colder for longer.
• Adjust simple syrup to taste—cranberry juice can be quite tart, so a little extra sweetness can help balance it.
• Shake vigorously but confidently; you want a frothy, well-mixed drink without over-diluting.
• Use large ice cubes—they melt slower and keep the drink from getting watered down.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Whiskey swap: Try rye for a spicier kick or a smooth bourbon for a sweeter note.
• Juice alternatives: Pomegranate juice can replace cranberry juice for a slightly different fruity twist.
• Sweetener swaps: Honey syrup or maple syrup works beautifully instead of simple syrup, adding a cozy fall flavor.
• Sparkling twist: Top with a splash of soda water or sparkling wine for a light, fizzy version.
• Garnish variations: Fresh rosemary or a cinnamon stick makes it extra festive for holiday cocktail parties.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this cranberry whiskey sour at a Thanksgiving brunch alongside a platter of roasted turkey sliders—it balances the richness of the meal perfectly.
• Pair it with baked brie and cranberry chutney for a cozy appetizer night—it’s like a little taste of the holidays in every sip.
• Serve it with spiced nuts and dark chocolate bites for an afternoon cocktail hour with friends.
• It’s also fantastic alongside fall-inspired desserts like pumpkin pie or apple crisp; the tartness of the cranberry cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
• For a casual night in, I like to sip it while curled up with a good book and a warm throw—it just feels right for fall.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Pre-mixed cocktail: You can mix the cranberry, citrus, and syrup components ahead of time and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Whiskey storage: Always add whiskey fresh when ready to serve—don’t store pre-mixed with alcohol for more than a day.
• Ice: Don’t store with ice; add fresh ice just before serving to maintain texture and dilution balance.
• Leftover drink: If there’s any left in the glass, best to finish within a few hours—refrigeration can dull the fresh citrus flavor.
• Reheating: This cocktail is meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t recommended. Keep it chilled and fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions

What whiskey works best for a cranberry whiskey sour?

Bourbon is my favorite for its smooth, sweet warmth, but rye works beautifully too if you want a spicier edge.

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the cranberry, citrus, and syrup components and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add the whiskey and ice just before serving for the best flavor.

How can I make it less sweet?

Simply reduce the simple syrup a little or add a touch more lemon juice. Taste as you go—it’s all about balance!

Can I use cranberry juice from concentrate?

You can, but fresh cranberry juice really makes the drink pop. Concentrate can make it taste a bit flat or overly sweet.

What are some fun garnish ideas?

Try an orange twist, a few fresh cranberries, or even a sprig of rosemary for a festive holiday cocktail look.

Can I make a sparkling version?

Absolutely! A splash of soda water or sparkling wine on top gives it a light, bubbly twist while keeping the flavors intact.

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Did you try this cranberry orange whiskey sour? Let me know in the comments how it turned out—I’d love to hear your favorite twists and serving ideas!