Cosmopolitan is one of the most mysterious cocktails in American history. There is a big dispute over its origins, some of which point to different countries. No matter where it came from, however, the Cosmopolitan is revered as an American classic cocktail.

This cocktail is a citrus flavored drink that consists of citrus vodka, Triple sec (preferably Cointreau), cranberry juice and lime juice. To build this cocktail recipe, all the contents along with ice are shaken, poured into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnished with a lime twist, orange twist or lime wedge.

Since it's popularization, the Cosmopolitan can now be enjoyed in several ways thanks to a handful of simple yet clever variations. Today's recipe will reveal how to make the classic cocktail and its variations that are especially enjoyable during special occasions.

The recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 oz citrus vodka
  • 1 oz Cointreau
  • 1 oz cranberry juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 1 scoop ice
  • Lime twist, lime wedge or orange peel for garnish

Directions:

  1. Chill a cocktail glass in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  2. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake well.
  3. Strain the contents in the chilled cocktail glass. Garnish the Cosmopolitan drink with a lime twist/orange peel hanging on the side of the glass or with a lime wedge.

Variations

  • White Cosmopolitan - Substitute white cranberry juice for the regular cranberry juice.
  • Cosmocello - Substitute 2 ounces of limoncello for the citrus vodka and lime juice. Garnish with a lime twist.
  • Cosmobellini - Add 1/2 ounce of peach puree and a shot of Prosecco wine before shaking. This is a variation to a Bellini cocktail. Hence the name.
  • French Cosmopolitan - Substitute Grand Magnier for the Cointreau Triple sec. Add a dash of Grenadine.
  • Raspberry Cosmopolitan - Substitute raspberry juice/puree for the cranberry juice.
  • Strawberry Cosmopolitan - Substitute strawberry juice/puree for the cranberry juice.

Warning

Due to protocol, it must be stressed that this is an alcoholic cocktail; it consists of a combination of vodka and Triple sec.

Therefore, it is advised to drink responsibly. Anyone with health issues associated with alcohol consumption should avoid this cocktail and anything similar. Alcohol should not be consumed while taking prescription medication.

Those who don't fit into either category should still use caution when consuming alcohol. Regardless of health, those who consume alcohol regularly, are advised to always stay off the road or rely on a designated driver.
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