I'm Caitlin - culinary hostess, wellness retreat curator, and homebody at heart. This blog is where I share seasonal recipes, intentional living tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from my kitchen, travels, and retreats.
Here to make healthy living feel thoughtful and approachable - one recipe, ritual, or gathering at a time.
A festive cocktail that feels equal parts cozy and polished, this Cranberry Spritz pairs bright citrus with herbal warmth and a hint of fruit-forward balsamic. It’s the kind of welcome sip that instantly sets the tone for a memorable gathering – light, aromatic, and effortlessly elegant.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS POST
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Step-By-Step Instructions
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Hosting Tips
Other Recipes You’ll Love
Recipe Card
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Fall entertaining calls for a drink that feels special without being fussy, and this Cranberry Spritz delivers beautifully. Fresh lemon and maple create a fragrant base, while the cranberry pear balsamic adds a depth you won’t get from traditional mixers. The finish is bright, balanced, and lightly sparkling. This cocktail is designed for welcome drinks, Thanksgiving gatherings, or any moment that deserves something seasonal yet simple.
This spritz can be made for one or batched for a crowd, and every ingredients plays a purposeful role. It’s refreshing and exactly the kind of drink you guests will ask you the recipe for.
Combine and Shake : In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup / honey, and cranberry pear balsamic. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled, about 10 – 20 seconds.
Strain and Top : Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with sparkling water or prosecco for a bubbly finish.
Garnish : Express a strip of lemon over the glass and add a twist of lemon for color.
MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE TIPS
For Events : mix everything except the sparkling component and garnish up to 24 hours ahead. Keep chilled and top with bubbles right before serving.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes, swap the vodka for additional sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit like Seedlip or Ritual.
Is there a substitute for cranberry pear balsamic?
Pomegranate or cranberry shrub works, but the Cranberry Pear Balsamic offers the deepest flavor.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Certainly. Just dissolve 1 part honey with 1 part warm water to create a quick honey syrup.
What sparkling option is best?
For a lighter sip, use sparkling water. For something festive, use prosecco or cava.
HOSTING TIPS
Create a simple “welcome cocktail station” for guests to serve themselves as they settle in. Pre-batch the cocktail, set out chilled sparkling water or prosecco, and add garnishes in small bowls. It invites guests into the experience and frees you up to focus on the rest of the evening.
A refreshing and aromatic fall cocktail made with cranberry pear balsamic, lemon, and sparkling bubbles. Perfect for entertaining, batching, or serving as a welcome drink.
Combine and Shake : In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup / honey, and cranberry pear balsamic. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled, about 10 – 20 seconds.
Strain and Top : Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with sparkling water or prosecco for a bubbly finish.
Garnish : Express a strip of lemon over the glass and add a twist of lemon for color.
Notes
Batch up to 24 hours ahead (before adding bubbles).
Use gin for a more botanical version.
Delicious served with a small lemon twist.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Category:Cocktails
Method:Shaken
Cuisine:American, Seasonal
Caitlin Lindsey
post author
Caitlin is the creative visionary behind Fit to Entertain, where food, wellness, and intentional living come together. She's passionate about helping others bring joy to the table and live beautifully - one meal at a time.
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