This Cranberry Cider and Soda is a tart and satisfying sipper! It’s low on alcohol but big on flavor, with hard cider, soda water, and a fun new ingredient to take your holiday drinks to the next level.
Low ABV Drinks Are IN, Folks
I’ve loved this low-alcohol movement that’s been becoming increasingly popular. Don’t get me wrong: I’m a fan of cocktails in a big way, but sometimes, something lighter is what you want.
Especially for those times (read: the holidays) when you’re in it for the long haul. You know what I’m talking about: gatherings that start at 2 and stretch in to the later hours of the evening. In an effort to not get…how do I say this…sloppy? at your next family gathering, let’s opt for low alcohol, shall we?
Making A Cranberry Cider And Soda
First things first, let’s start with the cider.
A couple months ago I posted a Hard Cider Taste Test, where I rounded up 12 different popular and local hard ciders to compare.The options are endless! Depending on your desired level of sweetness, choose one that has more or less sugar. Note that this cocktail is 1:1 of hard cider to soda water, so take that in to account as well as you’re selecting your cider as well.
As you may have incorrectly assumed, this cocktail does not include cranberry juice. We’re trying to keep things light and drinkable, and while cranberry juice has a time and a place, it doesn’t belong here right now. I opt for my new obsession for holiday imbibing: Cranberry Bitters! I’ve been using these bitters in all sorts of cocktails and to simply dress up a can of sparkling water. So delicious!
Go Low This Holiday!
As in, for your cocktails! Or…you know, don’t. It’s been a YEAR, so do whatever feels right for you. A shot of ginger liqueur or cinnamon whiskey may be just what you’re looking for to take this cocktail to another level. Cheers!
Cranberry Cider and Soda
Ingredients
- 6 oz hard cider, chilled
- 6 oz ginger flavored soda water, chilled
- 2-3 dashes cranberry bitters
- Fresh cranberries, to garnish
Instructions
- In a glass, combine chilled hard cider and soda water. Add cranberry bitters, stirring to combine.
- Garnhish with fresh cranberries if desired.
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