Festive Vanilla Cranberry Crush Drink
A festive holiday drink featuring tart cranberries, creamy vanilla, and sparkling water, perfect for winter gatherings.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Glass mugs
Ingredients
Cranberry Syrup
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup water
Vanilla Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Assembly & Garnish
- 2 cups sparkling water or club soda
- ice cubes as needed
- fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat until cranberries burst, about 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Strain cranberry syrup if desired, or leave whole cranberries for texture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Fill serving glasses halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour 2–3 tablespoons of cranberry syrup over ice, then add sparkling water.
- Gently spoon whipped vanilla cream on top of each drink.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries, mint leaves, or cinnamon sticks. Serve immediately.
Notes
Optional variations: add pomegranate juice, warm version with milk, or adult spiked version with rum or vodka.