Irresistible Cranberry Sage Aquavit Recipe Festive Holiday Cocktail

Name: Irresistible Cranberry Sage Aquavit Recipe Festive Holiday Cocktail
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489923H16M47S
Total time: PT-489923H16M47S
Cuisine: Scandinavian
Ingredients: 750ml aquavit (or vodka with 1 teaspoon caraway seeds as a substitute); 1 cup (100g) fresh cranberries; 10-12 fresh sage leaves; Zest of 1 medium orange; 1-2 tablespoons (12-24g) granulated sugar (optional)

Posted on November 2, 2025

Cocktails & Drinks

Jump to Recipe

The vibrant tartness of cranberries paired with the earthy warmth of sage—this Cranberry and Sage Aquavit is not your average holiday drink. It’s the kind of festive cocktail that makes your guests pause and say, “Wow, what’s in this?” I promise, it’s as irresistible as it sounds. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or cozying up by the fire, this infused spirit is the perfect addition to your holiday celebrations.

I first tried aquavit at a Scandinavian holiday market, and I instantly fell in love with its unique flavors. With its aromatic blend of spices and herbs, aquavit feels like winter bottled up. But the moment I added cranberries and fresh sage to the mix, it transformed into something truly special—bright, herby, and oh-so-festive. Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a holiday tradition in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This infused aquavit requires minimal effort—prep it in under 10 minutes, then let time do the rest!
Perfect for Gifting: Pour it into a pretty bottle, tie a ribbon around the neck, and you’ve got a homemade gift everyone will adore.
Festive Flavors: The tart cranberries and fragrant sage make each sip taste like the holidays.
Versatile: Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or use it to craft a stunning cocktail. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Unique Twist: While aquavit is traditionally flavored with dill and caraway, the cranberry and sage make this version unlike anything you’ve tried before.

This isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. From the moment you pour it, the rich red hue catches your eye. Take a sip, and the flavors are like a holiday parade for your palate. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this Cranberry and Sage Aquavit is a cocktail worth savoring.

What Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about using simple yet bold ingredients to create a flavor-packed holiday drink. Here’s what you’ll need:

Aquavit: The star of the show! Choose a high-quality aquavit for the best results. I love the caraway-forward flavors of Linie Aquavit.
Fresh Cranberries: These add a tart, fruity punch and a stunning red color to the infusion.
Fresh Sage Leaves: The earthy, slightly peppery flavor of sage balances the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.
Orange Zest: Adds a subtle citrus note that ties the flavors together beautifully.
Granulated Sugar: Optional, but a touch of sweetness rounds out the flavors if you prefer a slightly smoother finish.
Vodka: If you can’t find aquavit, you can substitute vodka and add a pinch of caraway seeds for that signature Scandinavian flair.

These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store or liquor shop, especially during the holiday season when cranberries and fresh herbs are readily available. Don’t skimp on the quality of your aquavit—it’s the foundation of this recipe!

Equipment Needed

Making this festive infused cocktail requires just a few basic tools:

Glass Jar: A large, sealable jar is perfect for infusing the aquavit. Mason jars work beautifully.
Zester: For that aromatic orange zest.
Fine Mesh Strainer: To strain out the solids after infusing.
Bottle or Decanter: Use a decorative bottle for serving or gifting.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key to balancing flavors.

Don’t have a fine mesh strainer? A clean cheesecloth or coffee filter works just as well. And if you’re gifting the aquavit, be sure to pick a festive bottle with a tight-fitting lid—it’s all about presentation!

Preparation Method

Prepare the Ingredients: Wash 1 cup (100g) of fresh cranberries and lightly crush them to release their juices. Rinse 10-12 fresh sage leaves and pat them dry. Zest one medium orange, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Combine in Jar: In your glass jar, add the cranberries, sage leaves, and orange zest. Sprinkle in 1-2 tablespoons (12-24g) of granulated sugar if desired.
Add Aquavit: Pour 750ml (about 3 cups) of aquavit over the ingredients, ensuring they’re fully submerged. If using vodka as a substitute, add 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds for that authentic flavor.
Seal and Shake: Tightly seal the jar and give it a gentle shake to mix everything. Place the jar in a cool, dark spot to infuse.
Infuse: Let the mixture infuse for 3-5 days. Shake the jar gently each day to ensure even flavor distribution.
Strain: After infusing, pour the aquavit through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bottle or decanter. Discard the solids.
Serve: Chill your infused aquavit and serve it neat, over ice, or as a base for cocktails.

Tip: If the infusion tastes too strong, you can dilute it slightly with filtered water before serving. Don’t forget to label your bottle if gifting!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make sure your Cranberry and Sage Aquavit turns out perfectly:

Choose quality ingredients: Since this recipe has a short ingredient list, the quality of each item really matters.
Don’t rush the infusion: Let the flavors meld for at least 3 days. The longer you wait (up to 5 days), the more intense the flavors will be.
Shake daily: Gently swirling the jar helps the flavors distribute evenly.
Adjust sweetness: If you’re unsure, start with no sugar and add a little after tasting the infusion.
Experiment with ratios: Like it more tart? Add extra cranberries. Prefer herbal notes? Go heavy on the sage.

And here’s a little secret: If you accidentally over-infuse and the flavor is too strong, mix the aquavit with a splash of club soda or tonic water. It’s a great way to balance the flavors!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some fun ideas:

Dietary Adaptation: Skip the sugar entirely for a sugar-free version—it’s just as delicious.
Seasonal Twist: Swap cranberries for fresh pomegranate seeds or slices of blood orange for a different festive vibe.
Herb Substitution: Don’t have sage? Thyme or rosemary make great alternatives with a similar earthy flavor profile.
Add Spice: For a cozy kick, toss in a cinnamon stick or a few whole cloves during the infusion.
Mocktail Version: Create a non-alcoholic variation by infusing sparkling water or apple cider with cranberries, sage, and orange zest instead.

Last year, I tried adding a sprig of fresh rosemary alongside the sage—it gave the aquavit a deeper, woodsy flavor that my guests loved. Feel free to experiment and see what works for you!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

How you serve and store your Cranberry and Sage Aquavit can make all the difference:

Serving Temperature: Serve chilled for the best flavor. You can also pour it over ice if you prefer a more diluted drink.
Cocktail Ideas: Mix with tonic water, sparkling wine, or ginger beer for a refreshing holiday cocktail.
Pairings: Serve alongside charcuterie boards, smoked salmon, or creamy cheeses for an elegant pairing.
Storage: Store the infused aquavit in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Not applicable for this recipe—it’s best served cold!

Pro Tip: The flavors deepen over time, so if you don’t finish the bottle right away, that’s totally fine. In fact, it might taste even better after a few weeks!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what you can expect nutritionally from your Cranberry and Sage Aquavit:

Calories: Approximately 70 calories per ounce (without added sugar).
Low-Carb Option: Skip the sugar for a keto-friendly drink.
Antioxidants: Fresh cranberries are loaded with antioxidants, which can support heart health.
Digestive Benefits: Sage has been known to aid digestion, making this a great post-meal drink.
Allergens: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, but check your aquavit to ensure no additives.

Keep in mind that aquavit is still alcohol, so enjoy responsibly! It’s all about savoring the moment and the flavors.

Conclusion

If you’re ready to toast to the holidays with a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Cranberry and Sage Aquavit is calling your name. It’s easy to make, perfect for gifting, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Plus, you can tweak it to suit your taste or even create a non-alcoholic version for everyone to enjoy.

Personally, I love it because it’s not just a drink—it’s a conversation starter. The combination of cranberries and sage feels like a little winter magic in every sip.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how you like it! Share your favorite variations or serving ideas in the comments below. Cheers to a season full of good drinks and great memories!

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Fresh cranberries work best for this recipe because they release their juice during the infusion. While dried cranberries can be used in a pinch, they won’t provide the same tartness or vibrant color.

What can I substitute for aquavit?

If you can’t find aquavit, vodka is a great alternative. Add a pinch of caraway seeds or a splash of anise extract for a similar Scandinavian flavor.

How long does it take to infuse?

Infuse for a minimum of 3 days, but 5 days will give you the most robust flavor. Be patient—it’s worth the wait!

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for prepping ahead of time. Once strained, the aquavit will keep in the fridge for up to two months.

What other cocktails can I make with Cranberry and Sage Aquavit?

Try mixing it with tonic water and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing spritzer or combine it with sparkling wine for an elegant holiday toast.

Pin This Recipe!