Cosmopolitan Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

1 1/2 oz Vodka
1 oz Cranberry Juice
1/2 oz Triple Sec (e.g., Cointreau)
1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
Orange Peel or Lime Wheel (for garnish)

Instructions:

Add vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice to a shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously until well chilled.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with an orange peel twist or lime wheel.

Other vodkas we recommend for our Martini cocktail recipe:

History of the Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s, gaining popularity in the Manhattan bar scene. It is often attributed to bartenders like Cheryl Cook and Toby Cecchini, who refined the recipe into the balanced, blush-pink cocktail we know today. The drink cemented its place in pop culture when it became a signature choice for Carrie Bradshaw and her friends on the hit TV show Sex and the City.

Tips and Variations

The Cosmopolitan’s tart, citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with:
Chill Your Glass: Place your martini glass in the freezer beforehand for an extra-cool presentation.
Cranberry Juice Balance: Opt for 100% cranberry juice for a tart flavor, or use a cranberry juice cocktail for a sweeter profile.
Shake It Well: Vigorous shaking creates a lightly frothy texture and perfectly chilled drink.

Variations:

Blood Orange Cosmopolitan: Substitute cranberry juice with blood orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Spiced Cosmopolitan: Add a dash of cinnamon or cardamom syrup for a warm, spiced note.
Low-Alcohol Cosmopolitan: Replace vodka with soda water and use non-alcoholic triple sec for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

The Cosmopolitan’s tart, citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with:

Light Appetizers: Smoked salmon canapés, shrimp cocktail, or bruschetta.
Cheese Platters: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese with crackers.
Desserts: Lemon bars, cranberry tartlets, or white chocolate truffles.