
There’s just something about holding a martini glass that makes you feel a little fancier—even if you’re in sweatpants, binge-watching your favorite show. And when that glass is filled with a perfectly balanced Cosmopolitan Martini, complete with its flirty pink hue and a zesty twist of orange, it’s game over.
This drink is more than just a cocktail; it’s a vibe. Whether you’re channeling Carrie Bradshaw or just need a moment to sip and savor, this Cosmo is here to bring a little sparkle to your day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The Cosmopolitan Martini has it all: simplicity, sophistication, and an irresistible pink color. Made with fresh lime juice, a splash of cranberry juice, and high-quality vodka, this cocktail is a classic recipe that’s both refreshing and timeless. It’s the perfect drink for happy hour, dinner drinks, or any occasion where a great martini is in order. Plus, the use of simple ingredients means you can whip this up with ease—no mixology degree required!
The Story and Culture Behind the Dish:
Did you know the Cosmopolitan cocktail shot to fame in the late 1980s? It became an instant classic thanks to its starring role in New York City’s hottest bars and, later, on screens everywhere as the signature drink of Sex and the City.
With its citrus-flavored vodka and vibrant pink hue, the Cosmopolitan represents effortless style and a nod to the glamorous martini cocktail glass culture. It’s the perfect drink for channeling your inner city-slicker, whether you’re in the heart of Manhattan or hosting a chic soiree at home.

Equipment List:
- Martini cocktail glass: For the ultimate classic martini presentation.
- Cocktail shaker: To ensure the perfect chill and mix of ingredients.
- Vegetable peeler: For creating a twist of orange zest without the white pith.
- Fine mesh strainer: To ensure a smooth, pulp-free pour.
- Ice cubes: For chilling both the cocktail and the glass.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe:
- High-quality vodka: A great vodka, like Ketel One, ensures a smooth sip.
- Triple sec or Cointreau: For that essential orange liqueur flavor.
- Sweetened cranberry juice cocktail: Adds a little sweetness and the signature pink color.
- Fresh lime juice: The best way to bring out vibrant citrus notes.
- Kosher salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors.
- Orange zest twist: A garnish that’s as aromatic as it is elegant.

How to Make Cosmopolitan Martini:
Strain and Serve
Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass through a fine mesh strainer. Garnish with the orange zest twist and enjoy immediately.
Chill the Glass
Fill a martini cocktail glass with ice and set it aside to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
Prepare the Garnish
Use a vegetable peeler to create an orange zest twist, avoiding the white pith. Set it aside.
Combine Ingredients
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime juice, and a pinch of kosher salt.
Shake the Cocktail
Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to ensure the perfect chill.
Prepare the Glass
Discard the ice from the martini glass.
Strain and Serve
Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass through a fine mesh strainer. Garnish with the orange zest twist and enjoy immediately.
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Chef Secrets & Tips:
- Choose the right vodka: A citrus-flavored vodka or classic vodka like Absolut Citron elevates the flavor.
- Fresh lime juice matters: Skip the bottled stuff; fresh limes make all the difference.
- Chill thoroughly: A chilled martini glass ensures your drink stays icy cold longer.
- Customize sweetness: Adjust the cranberry juice or add a dash of simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter Cosmo.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair your Cosmopolitan Martini with savory appetizers like my Crab Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce, Tomato Mozzarella Bruschetta, or my savory Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. For more recipe ideas, check out my Appetizer section.
For What Season or Occasion is This Dish Best Suited?
The Cosmopolitan Martini is the ultimate all-season drink. Perfect for summer patio gatherings, festive holiday parties, or intimate dinner dates, this versatile cocktail shines no matter the occasion. It’s especially ideal for Valentine's, girls’ nights, or happy hour with friends.
Commonly Asked Questions:
- Can I use unsweetened cranberry juice? Yes, but you may need to add a splash of simple syrup for balance.
- What can I substitute for triple sec? Grand Marnier or any high-quality orange liqueur works beautifully.
- Can I batch this cocktail for a party? Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients by your desired servings and mix in a large pitcher. Shake individual servings with ice when ready to serve.
Storage Tips:
While cocktails are best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-mix the vodka, Cointreau, and cranberry juice in advance.
Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours and add lime juice just before shaking and serving.

More Popular Cocktail Recipes

A Classic Whiskey Sour delivers a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors with its combination of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

Jamaican Rum Punch is a vibrant and tropical drink featuring rum, orange and pineapple juices, and a hint of grenadine for that perfect island vibe.

The Elderflower Lychee Martini offers an exotic twist with the delicate floral notes of elderflower liqueur and the sweet, juicy flavor of lychee.

An Italian Margarita upgrades the classic with the addition of amaretto, creating a nutty, rich finish that’s absolutely divine.

A Lemon Drop Martini is a zesty, sweet, and tangy treat with vodka, lemon juice, and sugar—perfect for a refreshing sip.

Frozen Peach Bellinis are a delightful summer drink, blending ripe peaches and sparkling wine for a cool, bubbly cocktail experience.

Before You Get Started! If you whip up this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a review and rating to let me know how it turned out. Your feedback helps keep the kitchen running and allows me to keep sharing free recipes with y’all!
Cosmopolitan Martini
Ingredients
- ¾ oz Ketel One Vodka
- ¾ oz Cointreau
- 1 oz sweetened cranberry juice cocktail
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 orange zest twist for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
Chill the Glass
- Fill a coupe glass with ice and set aside to chill while preparing the cocktail.
Prepare the Garnish
Combine Ingredients
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake the Cocktail
- Shake the shaker vigorously until the mixture is well chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
Prepare the Glass
- Discard the ice from the coupe glass.
Strain and Serve
- Strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer into the chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with the prepared orange zest twist.
Enjoy immediately.
Nutrition
*Nutrition information is automatically calculated based on ingredient data and should be considered an estimate. When multiple ingredient options are provided, the first listed is used for calculation. Optional ingredients and garnishes are not included in the nutrition analysis.
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