Pink Cosmopolitan in a martini glass garnished with citrus zest

Cocktail

Cosmopolitan

How to make a Cosmopolitan: elegant vodka cocktail with Cointreau, cranberry and lime juice. IBA classic recipe with pro tips.

4 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
Martini glassGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Cosmopolitan became popular in the USA in the 1980s and has been the epitome of the stylish cocktail since the series Sex and the City. The combination of lemon vodka, Cointreau, cranberry and lime juice makes a balanced drink between fruity and tart. Served in an elegant martini glass, it is a timeless classic for special occasions.

Instructions

  1. Pre-chill the martini glass with ice.
  2. Add lemon vodka, Cointreau, lime juice and cranberry juice with ice to the shaker.
  3. Shake vigorously for about ten seconds.
  4. Remove the ice from the martini glass.
  5. Strain the cocktail through a fine strainer into the glass.
  6. Garnish with a citrus zest.

Garnish: A zest of lime or orange

Pro tip: Shake the cocktail vigorously and double strain it so no ice shards get into the glass and the drink stays silky.

Frequently asked questions

Why is lemon vodka used in the Cosmopolitan?

The lemon vodka gives the cocktail extra freshness and supports the citrus notes. Regular vodka works as well, though.

Does the Cosmopolitan get its color from the cranberry juice?

Yes, the cranberry juice provides the characteristic pink-red color and gives the drink a slightly tart fruit note.

Which orange liqueur works best?

Cointreau is the classic triple sec for the Cosmopolitan. Alternatively, you can use another high-quality triple sec.

Ingredients

  • Lemon vodka4 cl
  • Cointreau1,5 cl
  • Lime juice1,5 cl
  • Cranberry juice3 cl
  • Ice cubesas needed