Mixpert reviewed recipe
Classic Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The right proportions keep this famous pink cocktail citrus-forward and tart, with cranberry for color rather than overwhelming sweetness.
Ready in5 minMakes1 servingCalories165Total sugar9g
Legal drinking age · Enjoy responsiblyStep by step
Make it like a pro.
- 01
Chill a coupe or cocktail glass while you measure the ingredients.
- 02
Add citrus vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, lime juice, and ice to a shaker; shake firmly for 12 to 15 seconds.
- 03
Double-strain into the chilled glass, express the orange peel over the surface, and use it as the garnish.
Easy swaps
- Use plain vodka plus one small strip of orange peel in the shaker when citrus vodka is unavailable.
- Choose unsweetened cranberry juice and add one teaspoon simple syrup for more control over sweetness.
- Serve in a small martini glass if you do not have a coupe.
Mixpert tips
- Use enough ice to fill the shaker at least halfway for proper chilling.
- Double-straining catches small ice chips and lime pulp for a polished texture.
Classic Cosmopolitan Cocktail questions
What is in a Cosmopolitan cocktail?+
The modern classic combines citrus vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice, shaken and served without ice.
Is a Cosmopolitan sweet or sour?+
A balanced Cosmopolitan is tart and citrus-forward with moderate sweetness. Too much cranberry juice can make it taste sugary and muted.
