The Mistletoe Martini is the perfect festive sip to elevate any holiday gathering or cozy night in. With its vibrant red hue and a blend of tangy lime, sweet cherry brandy, and the crisp kick of vodka, this cocktail instantly transforms an ordinary evening into something special.
Not only does it make a stunning addition to your holiday celebrations, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it the go-to drink for both novice and seasoned home bartenders.
The smooth vodka and fruity cherry brandy work together harmoniously, while a touch of fresh lime juice gives the drink a zesty, refreshing balance. Simple syrup rounds out the flavors, giving it that perfect sweetness.
But it’s the garnish that truly sets this drink apart. Fresh raspberries and sprigs of rosemary add a pop of color and a delightful aromatic twist that perfectly complements the drink’s festive spirit.
For a complete spread, serve it alongside some savory bites like Stuffed Mushrooms or Teriyaki Noodles to make your evening even more memorable.
This cocktail is trending because it offers a fun, seasonal twist on the classic martini, with just the right amount of holiday cheer. It’s sure to impress guests and become a favorite during your winter celebrations.
Why This Is My Go-To Recipe?
- It’s festive and fun: The bright red color and unique combination of flavors bring holiday cheer to any occasion.
- Super easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, anyone can mix up a delicious Mistletoe Martini in no time.
- Customization possibilities: Adjust the sweetness or strength with extra syrup or more vodka for a drink that fits your personal taste.
- Perfect pairing: It pairs beautifully with snacks like Stuffed Mushrooms or Teriyaki Noodles, giving your guests a complete experience.
- Holiday-ready: The aromatic rosemary and fresh raspberries make it a drink that’s as visually stunning as it is flavorful.
Mistletoe Martini Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Strainer
- Glass (martini glass)
- Muddler (optional, for raspberries)
Ingredients
- 4 ounces vodka I use Grey Goose
- 2 ounces cherry brandy
- 2 ounces lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 ounce simple syrup or more to your taste
Garnish:
- 6 raspberries fresh
- 2 sprigs rosemary fresh
Instructions
- Add vodka, cherry brandy, lime juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and secure the lid tightly.
- Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill and mix.
- Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
- Garnish with fresh raspberries and rosemary sprigs.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Mistletoe Martini!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 245kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Potassium | 33mg |
| Vitamin C | 10.1mg |
| Sugar | 11g |
| Sodium | 9mg |
Helpful Variations From My Own Kitchen Experiments!
- Smoked Rosemary Infusion: Lightly torch the rosemary sprig before garnishing. The gentle smokiness adds a dramatic aroma and layers beautifully with the cherry notes.
- Spiced Syrup Swap: Replace regular simple syrup with a homemade cinnamon-clove syrup. Just simmer equal parts water and sugar with a cinnamon stick and 2 cloves for 5 minutes—let it cool, then strain.
- Lime Zest Ice Cubes: Freeze lime zest into ice cubes and shake the drink with them. They slowly release citrus oils as they melt, giving a subtle lift to every sip.
- Raspberry Purée Base: Muddle raspberries and strain into the shaker for a richer texture and deeper berry flavor—it gives the drink more body and looks gorgeous in the glass.
- White Mistletoe Martini (Snowy Twist): Swap cherry brandy with white cranberry juice and add a splash of elderflower liqueur for a lighter, floral take that still feels festive but totally different.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
