How to Make the Perfect Cosmopolitan

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WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT

The Cosmopolitan is one of the most iconic cocktails. Made with Vodka, Cranberry Juice, Triple Sec, and Lime Juice, the “Cosmo” is a symbol of modern cocktail culture. 

The cocktail’s stunning appearance and bright citrusy flavors have made it a popular choice for summer parties, brunches, and cocktail hours everywhere. Below we’ll show you how to make a Cosmopolitan with a recipe that’s easy but sure to dazzle.

How to Make a Cosmopolitan

What You’ll Need

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Jigger or Measuring Instrument
  • Strainer
  • Martini Glass
  • Peeler

Got a question about one of the tools? Check out our handy guide.

How to Mix

  1. Fill a Shaker with Ice Cubes.
  2. Add all ingredients.
  3. Shake and strain into a Cocktail Glass.
  4. Garnish with an Orange Zest Twist.

What is a Cosmopolitan?

Also known as the “Cosmo,” it’s a Vodka cocktail classic made with Absolut Citron, Triple Sec, fresh Lime and a dash of Cranberry Juice. Served in a Martini Glass, the cocktail known for its vibrant pink color and citrusy flavor profile.

It gained widespread popularity in the 1990s and is often associated with sophistication and stylish living.

Watch AJ show how to make a Cosmopolitan

What Does a Cosmopolitan Cocktail Taste Like?

It’s seductively sweet, a bit tart and a lot more alcohol-forward than one might think. It’s all about the balance. When done right, it’s sophisticated, stiff and sexy.  The Orange Zest Twist garnish ties everything together, marrying perfectly the tartness of the cranberry and the delicious, smooth citrus flavors of Absolut Citron.

The History of Cosmopolitan

Like so many iconic cocktails, the Cosmopolitan’s exact origins are shrouded in mystery; some say it can be traced back to Provincetown, Massachusetts in the 1970s, while others say South Beach, Florida during the mid-1980s.

It’s also believed to have been developed as a variation of the popular Cape Codder cocktail, which combines Vodka and Cranberry juice. The addition of Triple Sec and Lime Juice gave birth to its signature flavor profile.

The Cosmo rose to prominence in the 1990s, becoming synonymous with cosmopolitan urban culture and modern cocktail sophistication. Its popularity surged, particularly in trendy bars and upscale social circles. Its stunning pink hue and fresh, citrusy taste contributed to its widespread appeal. 

Over the years, it has maintained its status as a classic cocktail, enjoyed in various social settings. Its enduring popularity and association with high living have solidified its place in cocktail history as an iconic drink.

Variations of the Cosmopolitan Cocktail

Serving and Garnish Ideas 

A traditional Cosmopolitan should be served in a Martini Glass. Be sure to chill the glass in the freezer first. Anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours is fine.

After thoroughly shaking all the ingredients in a Cocktail Shaker until well-chilled, strain the liquid into a glass. It should have a vibrant pink color and a frothy texture.

To garnish your cocktail, using a Peeler, peel one Orange Zest strip per drink. Hold the strip over the glass, expressing the oils by giving it a quick twist. Drop the zest into the cocktail or place it on the rim for an added touch of citrus aroma. 

Tips for Making a Perfect Cosmopolitan

Don’t overdo the Cranberry – The secret behind a truly great Cosmo is to go easy on the Cranberry Juice. You want the Cosmopolitan to be a blushing pink, not lobster red. 

Fresh juice – You’ll also want to use fresh pressed Lime Juice instead of something from a bottle. And yes, you’ll be able to tell the difference…big time.

Shake it like you hate it –
 You can tell a well-shaken cocktail from a badly shaken one by looking for the foam head. If your cocktail doesn’t get a little bit foamy, shake it again without the Ice.

Double strain – No one likes getting bits of Ice or pulp in their cocktail. When you’ve finished shaking, double strain your cocktail using both a Hawthorne Strainer and a Fine-Mesh Strainer to get rid of all those pesky bits once and for all! 

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