Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini Christmas Martini Paling Festive!

December 24, 2025

I’ve been cooking and mixing drinks for more than a decade, and one thing I’ve learned the hard way is this: the best recipes are born from curiosity.

This Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini is exactly that kind of drink. It started as a playful experiment with lemon, cranberry, and a little bit of drama and somehow turned into one of those “wow, this actually works” moments.

Bright, citrusy, slightly sweet, and dangerously smooth.

Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini (With a Bold Citrus Twist)

This martini is all about balance. Bright citrus, gentle sweetness, and just enough sharpness to keep every sip exciting. Elegant, refreshing, and surprisingly easy to make.

Why This Drink Works

Fresh lemon adds a sharp, refreshing kick
Cranberry juice brings color and fruity depth
Lemonade softens the acidity
Sugar or sugar–salt rim enhances every sip
Optional flaming lemon garnish makes it a showstopper

It’s bold without being overpowering — classic, but still playful.

Ingredients

For the drink

45 ml vodka (plain or citrus vodka)
30 ml cranberry juice
20 ml fresh lemon juice
15 ml lemonade or simple syrup
Ice

For the glass

Lemon wedge
Sugar (or half sugar–half salt)

Optional garnish

Lemon twist
Soaked lemon slice (for flaming garnish)

Note: Alcohol is for adults only. Drink responsibly.

Prepare the Glass

Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a coupe or martini glass. Dip the rim into sugar until evenly coated.

For extra contrast, mix a little salt into the sugar — it makes the citrus flavor pop even more.

How to Mix

Fill a shaker with ice.
Add vodka, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and lemonade.
Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
Strain into the prepared glass.

At this point, the drink is clean, bright, and perfectly balanced.

Optional: Flaming Lemon Garnish

This is not traditional, but it’s my signature twist.

Soak lemon slices in high-proof alcohol for at least 2 hours.
Place the slice carefully on top of the drink.
Light it briefly and allow the flame to burn out.
Drink first, then eat the lemon slice.

This step adds aroma, drama, and a memorable finishing touch.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini sits perfectly between classic and creative. It works beautifully for parties, holidays, date nights, or as a personal reward after a long day.

Qna For Cheers

What does a Cranberry Lemon Drop Martini taste like?

It tastes bright and refreshing with a balance of citrus sharpness, gentle sweetness, and a slightly tart cranberry finish. It’s bold but smooth, making it easy to sip.

Can I make this martini less sour?

Yes. Simply add a little more lemonade or simple syrup to soften the acidity. Adjust gradually until the flavor feels balanced to your taste.

What vodka works best for this recipe?

Plain vodka works perfectly, but citrus vodka enhances the lemon flavor and adds extra freshness without overpowering the drink.

Is the sugar–salt rim really necessary?

It’s optional, but highly recommended. The sugar adds sweetness, while a small amount of salt boosts the citrus flavor and makes each sip more vibrant.

Can I skip the flaming lemon garnish?

Absolutely. The flaming lemon is purely optional and decorative. The martini still tastes amazing with a simple lemon twist or no garnish at all.

Fresh, citrus-forward, and slightly sinful — exactly how a good martini should feel. Trust me, once you try this version, it’s hard to go back. Cheers 🍋✨

Carol December 24, 2025