Classic Cosmopolitan (Cosmo) Recipe

This sophisticated and refreshing cocktail is a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and citrusy flavors.

Yields: 1 serving
Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz citrus vodka
• ¾ oz Cointreau (or Triple Sec)
• ¾ oz fresh lime juice
• ¼ oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
• Garnish: Orange twist or lime wedge

Equipment:

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Ice
• Chilled coupe or martini glass

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Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a big difference! Chill your serving glass in the freezer or with ice water.

Step 2: Add Citrus Vodka to the Shaker

Pour 1.5 ounces of citrus vodka into your cocktail shaker. Citrus vodka provides a bright and zesty base for the drink.

Step 3: Add Cointreau (or Triple Sec)

Next, add ¾ ounce of Cointreau (or a good quality Triple Sec) to the shaker. This orange liqueur contributes sweetness and citrus notes. Cointreau is generally preferred for its smoother and more complex flavor.

Step 4: Add Fresh Lime Juice

Measure out ¾ ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice and add it to the shaker. The fresh lime juice provides the essential tartness of a Cosmopolitan.

Step 5: Add Cranberry Juice

Pour in ¼ ounce of cranberry juice. The cranberry juice adds a touch of sweetness, a hint of tartness, and the signature pink hue to the cocktail. Use unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice to control the overall sweetness.

Step 6: Add Ice to the Shaker

Fill the cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with ice.

Step 7: Shake Well

Securely place the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the shaker is well-chilled. This ensures the drink is cold and properly mixed.

Step 8: Strain into a Chilled Glass

Remove any ice water or ice from your chilled coupe or martini glass. Strain the contents of the shaker into the prepared glass. The double straining (if your shaker has a built-in strainer and you use a fine-mesh strainer) will ensure a smooth and clear cocktail.

Step 9: Garnish

Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by twisting it and then drop it into the glass as a garnish. Alternatively, you can use a simple lime wedge.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Your classic Cosmopolitan is now ready to be served and enjoyed. Sip and savor the perfectly balanced flavors.

Tips and Variations:

• Vodka: While citrus vodka is traditional, you can use regular vodka if you prefer. You might want to add a dash of orange bitters for extra citrus aroma.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of cranberry juice slightly to your preference for sweetness and color.
• Cranberry Vodka: Some variations use cranberry vodka instead of plain or citrus vodka. Adjust the cranberry juice accordingly if you try this.
• Lime Garnish: A simple lime wedge is also a perfectly acceptable and traditional garnish.

Enjoy your expertly made Cosmopolitan! Remember to drink responsibly.