Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour is a festive twist on the classic cocktail — tart, citrusy, and perfectly balanced with a smooth whiskey finish. Fresh orange juice and cranberry syrup bring bright winter flavor, while a touch of honey or simple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and beautiful to serve at holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.
🍊 Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour Ingredients
- 2 ounces whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 ounce fresh orange juice
- ¾ ounce cranberry juice or cranberry simple syrup
- ¾ ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- ½ ounce simple syrup or honey syrup (to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice or peel, for garnish
- Fresh cranberries or rosemary sprig, for garnish (optional)

🍹 How To Make Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour
- Chill your glass: Place a coupe or rocks glass in the freezer for 5 minutes while you prepare the drink.
- Mix the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, orange juice, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice.
- Shake it up: Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and serve: Strain into the chilled glass over ice (or serve neat if preferred).
- Garnish: Add an orange peel twist, a few cranberries, or a rosemary sprig for a festive touch.
💭 Recipe Tips
- Use fresh citrus: Freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: Add more or less syrup to suit your taste.
- Make a pitcher: Multiply ingredients and mix in a large shaker or pitcher for parties.
- Try cranberry syrup: Simmer cranberries with sugar and water for a richer, jewel-toned flavor.
- Add froth (optional): Shake with egg white or aquafaba for a classic whiskey sour foam top.
🍪 What To Serve With Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour?
This cocktail pairs perfectly with savory appetizers like baked brie, cheese boards, roasted nuts or charcuterie. It also complements festive desserts like spiced cookies, cranberry bars or dark chocolate truffles.
🎚 How To Store Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour Components?
- Cranberry syrup: Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Pre-mixed base: Combine all ingredients except ice and store chilled for up to 3 days. Shake with ice before serving.
FAQs
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Yes! Replace the whiskey with brewed black tea or apple cider for a mocktail version that’s just as delicious.
Can I use cranberry sauce instead of juice?
You can! Just whisk 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce with ½ ounce of warm water to thin it out before mixing.
What’s the best whiskey for this cocktail?
Bourbon gives a smooth, sweet flavor, while rye adds a little spice — both work beautifully.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes mix everything except the ice ahead of time and store in the fridge. Shake with ice just before serving.
📊 Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugars: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour
Course: DrinksCuisine: American1
servings5
minutes185
kcalThis Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour combines fresh orange and lemon juices with cranberry and whiskey for a festive, citrusy cocktail that’s smooth, tart, and beautifully balanced.
Ingredients
2 ounces whiskey (bourbon or rye)
1 ounce fresh orange juice
¾ ounce cranberry juice or cranberry simple syrup
¾ ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
½ ounce simple syrup or honey syrup (to taste)
Ice cubes
Orange slice or peel, for garnish
Fresh cranberries or rosemary sprig, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Shake whiskey, orange juice, cranberry, lemon, and syrup with ice.
- Strain into a glass and garnish with citrus or cranberries.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh citrus: Freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice make a big difference in flavor.
Adjust sweetness: Add more or less syrup to suit your taste.
Make a pitcher: Multiply ingredients and mix in a large shaker or pitcher for parties.
Try cranberry syrup: Simmer cranberries with sugar and water for a richer, jewel-toned flavor.
Add froth (optional): Shake with egg white or aquafaba for a classic whiskey sour foam top.