Ingredients

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup water

1 cinnamon stick

Pinch of ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Crushed ice for your glass

1 to 2 ounces cinnamon simple syrup

3 to 4 ounces cranberry juice (100% juice with no added sugar recommended)

1 to 2 ounces bourbon

1 to 2 ounces seltzer water (orange flavored seltzer works well)

Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Sugared cranberries for garnish or in your glass

Instructions

Step 1: Make the cinnamon simple syrup by heating the brown sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and ground cinnamon in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 2: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove it from the heat. Let it cool completely before stirring in the vanilla extract. You can prepare this syrup a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge.

Step 3: To assemble the drink, fill a glass with crushed ice.

Step 4: Stir together the cinnamon simple syrup, cranberry juice, and bourbon until well combined. Alternatively, shake these ingredients in a cocktail shaker for about 30 seconds if you prefer a more blended texture.

Step 5: Pour the mixture over the ice and top with seltzer water to your taste.

Step 6: Garnish with a cinnamon stick and sugared cranberries for a festive touch.

Tips & Variations

Use orange-flavored seltzer water to add a bright citrus note that complements the cinnamon and cranberry flavors.

If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon and increase the cranberry juice and seltzer ratios.

Make extra cinnamon simple syrup and keep it refrigerated to quickly whip up this cocktail anytime.

For a sweeter drink, adjust the amount of simple syrup to your liking.

Storage

Store any leftover cinnamon simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The assembled cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cinnamon syrup and cranberry mixture ahead of time and combine with ice and seltzer just before serving. Reheat or microwave the syrup gently if it crystallizes in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry juice?

Fresh cranberries can be used to infuse flavor, but they are very tart and firm. It’s best to blend them first and strain to extract juice or use cranberry juice for a smoother, more balanced drink.

Is there a substitute for bourbon in this cocktail?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with rye whiskey for a spicier note or use a high-quality dark rum for a different but complementary flavor profile. For a non-alcoholic option, omit the spirit entirely or add a splash of non-alcoholic bourbon alternative.