This Cranberry Screwdriver, made with cranberry vodka, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a splash of Grand Marnier, is a bright, easy cocktail that’s perfect for the holidays or a relaxed evening at home.
Simple to make and elegant to serve, this festive twist on the classic screwdriver is a crowd-pleaser.
At this time of year, good food and great drinks go hand in hand. The Cranberry Screwdriver adds a festive touch to any gathering while staying easy to prepare.
You’ll enjoy making this for friends and family — it’s a quick recipe with big flavor and elegant color.
Ingredients needed:
All you need is cranberry vodka, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a splash of Grand Marnier for depth and brightness.
What is a screwdriver drink?
A screwdriver is a simple cocktail made from vodka and orange juice, usually served over ice. Ratios vary by taste, making it an easy drink to adapt. The Cranberry Screwdriver follows the same idea but uses cranberry vodka and a splash of orange liqueur for extra flavor and color.
This version keeps the familiar, refreshing base of the classic screwdriver while adding a festive cranberry note that makes it feel special.
Do you shake or stir vodka and orange juice?
Either method works. Shaking with ice chills and slightly dilutes the drink, giving a frothy, well-mixed cocktail. Stirring or simply building the drink over ice in a glass is faster and means fewer dishes. Choose whichever fits your mood and the occasion.
How to make this Cranberry Screwdriver Drink:
Measure about 2 ounces cranberry vodka into a glass or shaker, then add roughly 4 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice. Add a splash of Grand Marnier to round out the flavors. If you prefer, shake with ice and strain into a glass over fresh ice; otherwise build in the glass and stir. Garnish with an orange wedge or cranberries if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Is fresh squeezed or store bought orange juice best with vodka?
Both work. Fresh-squeezed juice offers brighter flavor and aroma, while store-bought juice is convenient and consistent. Use whatever you have or prefer—fresh juice will give a livelier drink, but high-quality store juice will still make a great cocktail.
Cranberry Screwdriver
Ingredients
- 2 ounces cranberry vodka
- 4 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice (cara cara oranges suggested)
- splash of Grand Marnier
Instructions
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Combine the cranberry vodka, orange juice, and a splash of Grand Marnier in a shaker with ice and shake until chilled, then strain into a glass over fresh ice. Alternatively, build the drink in a glass over ice and stir to combine. Garnish if desired and serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation and should be used as a guide only.
Love festive holiday drink and cocktail recipes?
Try other seasonal favorites to keep your gatherings lively and flavorful.
This post was originally created in Dec 2015 and has been updated for clarity and readability.