Cranberry Tequila Sour Recipe
I’m all about having signature cocktails for get togethers. Something pretty to offer guests as soon as they arrive always feels special, doesn’t it? One of my favorite ways to start the creative process of cocktail development is starting with a simple syrup that I love. This spiced cranberry syrup is my favorite this time of year. For this particular recipe, I added a few orange slices because the combination of citrus and tequila is always a good one.
How to make the simple syrup:
Simple syrup is SO easy to make. Essentially, you add the ingredients all in a medium saucepan, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 20 minutes or until the sugar is completely dissolved. For this cranberry simple syrup, you also want to make sure the cranberries begin to burst, releasing their flavor and adding gorgeous color to the syrup.
Once the syrup has cooked, I like to let it steep as it cools. This infuses even more flavor, which is always a good move!
What is a sour cocktail?
A cocktail that is called a sour is essentially a combination of nearly equal parts liquor (often time you’ll see whiskey used here) with lemon juice and a touch of sweetener. In this case, the simply syrup doubles as both a sour and sweet flavor.
Can I make it with something other than tequila?
You sure can! You can use whiskey, rum, or vodka here. If you’re looking for a gin based recipe using this simple syrup, I’d suggest my Cranberry Gin Fizz.
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season. Cheers to taking things as they come, finding reasons to celebrate even if they’re hard to find, and expressing gratitude for what we have. Cheers, friends!
Cranberry Tequila Sour
Makes 2 Cocktails
5oz tequila (I prefer silver tequila)
2 1/2 oz lemon juice
1 1/2 oz cranberry simple syrup with a couple orange slices added
sparkling water to top off (optional but helps make it even more festive)
Fresh cranberries, orange, or lemon slices for garnish
In a shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
Strain into two chilled coupe glasses. To ensure you strain out any ice shards, double strain through a fine mesh sieve.
Top with a splash of sparkling water, garnish, serve and enjoy!
