This Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail is the perfect Thanksgiving co*cktail! A homemade cranberry shrub with hints of black pepper, rosemary, and cinnamon is combined with bourbon and seltzer for a festive and colorful drink.
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Easy Thanksgiving co*cktail Recipe
I can’t believe it is Thanksgiving weekalready. And only a couple of days until Thanksgiving!
This year is seriously flying by in the strangest way – half the time it feels like time is standing still, and the rest of the time I blink and 2 months have passed.
Since Thanksgiving is quickly sneaking up on us, I thought it would be a good time to share this fun Thanksgiving co*cktail Recipe – a deliciousCranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail.
Maybe this Thanksgiving will be a little different in terms of family and friends gathering together.
I know we are keeping it small to just our immediate family, but you can always enjoy a virtual co*cktail hour over zoom with your friends and family.
You can even share the URL to this Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail ahead of time and everyone can make and enjoy the same co*cktail together, while visiting virtually.
I’ve thought another fun thing to do this holiday season would be to play games over zoom with some of our friends, and to keep things a little more normal, have snacks and drinks while doing so.
However you choose to celebrate the holiday I hope you stay safe and have fun!
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Making this Shrub co*cktail
If you’ve never made a shrub co*cktail before, you definitely should.
I love the unique flavor they add to a co*cktail. This one is cranberry based with hints of black pepper, rosemary, and cinnamon.
Not only is this Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail so good, but it is also so pretty and will totally be a showstopper served with your Thanksgiving spread.
I had so much fun taking photos of this and I had the hardest time deciding which ones to use in the post because they were all so pretty and colorful.
What is a Shrub co*cktail?
No, we’re not talking about a bushy, green plant in your front yard.
A shrub, when it comes to drinks, is a sweetened vinegar-based syrup that is often infused with fruits, herbs, or other spices.
Think simple syrup with a fruity, vinegar flavor rather than sugar water. The basic concept is a 1:1:1 ratio of fruit, sugar, and vinegar.
This vinegary fruit syrup is sometimes referred to as drinking vinegar. And you probably already have all of the ingredients at home to make a basic shrub.
What Does this Shrub co*cktail Taste Like?
Shrub co*cktail recipes have a distinct tangy bite due to the addition of the fruit infused vinegar.
But don’t worry, that doesn’t mean these craft co*cktails taste like vinegar.
This cranberry co*cktail is much more complex than that. There are hints of black pepper and rosemary mixed with the sweet, tart taste of cranberries.
This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Tools Needed to Make this Cranberry co*cktail
- Heavy Bottomed Saucepan — to cook the shrub recipe in.
- Measuring Cups — to measure the cranberry rosemary shrub ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon— to stir the shrub while it cooks.
- Fine Mesh Strainer— to strain the shrub before adding it to a storage container.
- Mason Jar— or other airtight container for storing the co*cktail shrub.
- co*cktail Shaker or Mason Jar— This recipe makes two pomegranate co*cktails. It’s easiest to measure the ingredients directly into the shaker.
- Strainer for shaker— Most co*cktail shaker sets come with a strainer included, but if you don’t have one you need it for this recipe.
- Jigger— Makes measuring out co*cktail ingredients quick and easy.
What is in this Shrub co*cktail
This cranberry co*cktail recipe may look chic, but it’s actually quite easy to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple bourbon co*cktail:
Cranberry Rosemary Shrub Ingredients
- Cranberries
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Granulated Sugar
- Cinnamon Stick
- Fresh Rosemary
- Black Peppercorns
Cranberry Shrub co*cktail Ingredients
- Cranberry Rosemary Shrub
- Bourbon
- Seltzer
For the complete ingredient list and detailed instructions to make this shrub co*cktail, scroll to the bottom of this post for the FREE printable recipe card.
Do I Have to Use Bourbon in this Shrub co*cktail?
No! You can definitely use something other than bourbon for the base spirit in this Thanksgiving co*cktail.
I think dry gin or vodka would be a good substitute for the bourbon in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with your favorite liquor.
How to Make this Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail
There are 2 parts to this recipe. First you’ll have to make the shrub. Once you do that, you can assemble the co*cktail. Here’s a quick overview:
How to Make the Cranberry Rosemary Shrub
It is super easy to make a shrub for co*cktails.You’ll use an equal part vinegar, fruit, and sugar Shrubs can be as simple as the vinegar + fruit + sugar, or you can add extra spices and herbs to enhance the flavor.
The vinegar you use depends on the type of fruit you’re using, what taste you’re going for, and how sweet you want it to be.
Most shrubs typically use white vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar.
In this recipe, I added some fresh rosemary, black peppercorn, and a cinnamon stick to the cranberries and apple cider vinegar to give the shrub some really yummy fall flavors.
Here’s how to make a shrub:
There are two different methods: hot method and cold method. This recipe uses the hot method.
- In a 2 quart saucepan, combine the fruit, sugar, vinegar, rosemary and black peppercorn.
- Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
- Then add the cinnamon stick.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Strain and cool before using in your drink.
How to Store Homemade Shrub
Store the homemade cranberry shrub in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.A glass jar works well for storage.
If you’re concerned about using it up within 4 weeks, this recipe is easily halved to make a smaller amount.
How to Make this Shrub co*cktail
Once you’ve make the cranberry rosemary shrub, it is super easy to make this shrub co*cktail recipe! You can make the rosemary co*cktail as mild or strong as you prefer (just drink responsibly).
But, we liked the ratio of 2:1:1 for bourbon, shrub, and seltzer.
For ice, I love the really large cubes of ice, so I use a 2-inch ice cube mold, but you can use crushed ice or regular cubes if you prefer.
The above is simply a quick summary of this shrub co*cktail recipe. Check out the full recipe in the free printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for all the detailed instructions.
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Tips for Making Shrub co*cktails
You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe. Since the berries get cooked down to make the homemade shrub, it doesn’t matter which you buy!
Also note that you can reserve the cooked cranberries to add into your drink, just store them in a separate container.Or you can discard the cooked cranberries.
I’ve prepared the drink with leftover cooked berries as a garnish and with fresh cranberries. Either way is good, so it is up to you!
Feel free to tweak the ingredient ratios in this shrub co*cktail recipe to suit your own tastes.
Like I said, we prefer a 2:1:1 ratio for bourbon, seltzer, and shrub, but you can make your Thanksgiving co*cktail however you’d like.
What Kind of Glass Should I Serve this Shrub co*cktail in?
You can serve this cranberry co*cktail in any kind of glass, butwe prefer a short tumbler such as a lowball glass.
Cranberry co*cktail Garnish Ideas
I don’t like to add too many garnishes to my shrub co*cktail because the flavor of the co*cktail is so delicious as and complex as is.
However, some garnish ideas to try include:
- Fresh cranberries on a co*cktail pick
- Sugared cranberries on a co*cktail pick
- Frozen cranberries (helps the drink stay cold!)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Cinnamon Stick
- Star Anise
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Can I Make this Shrub co*cktail in a Punch Bowl for a Holiday Party?
Yes! Serving this cranberry co*cktail in a punch bowl or drink dispenser is a great option for holiday parties. You can use the below measurements to build this shrub co*cktail in a punch bowl:
To make 16 servings (approximately 1/2 cup each):
- 4 cups Bourbon
- 2 cups Cranberry Rosemary Shrub
- 2 cups Seltzer
Don’t add ice directly to the punch bowl; otherwise the drink will become watered down as the ice melts.
Instead, have an ice bucket near the serving station so guests can add ice directly to their own glass.
Can This Shrub co*cktail Recipe Be Made Non-Alcoholic?
Shrubs are usually spiked drinks, but you can you can use fruit shrubs to make refreshing mocktails, too, if you prefer!
Alcohol-free spirits are great as an alternative if you’re sober curious or don’t consume alcoholic beverages.
Alcohol-FreeBourbon Alternatives:
I’ve never made this cranberry co*cktail with alcohol-free spirits so I can’t speak to the exact taste, but here are some well rated non-alcoholic bourbon options:
Safety tip:Depending on the brand you use, some alcohol-removed spirits may still contain trace amounts of alcohol. Check before using if you’re pregnant, serving the mocktails to kids, etc.
Other Mocktail Options:
Ginger beer or Ginger ale would both be fun options to substitute in place of the bourbon.
You could also make a simply shrub seltzer – Fill a glass with ice, then add 1 – 2 tablespoons of shrub. Top the glass off with plain seltzer water, tonic water, or the popular La Croix (Cran-Raspberry would be great!).
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Try this Easy Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail!
Next time you’re looking for a unique cranberry co*cktail recipe, give this shrub co*cktail a try!
Did you think it was a great addition to your holiday menu? Leave a comment below and give it a star rating for others to see what you thought of this delicious drink.
On Instagram? Share your photo and tag me with @goodlifeeats and #goodlifeeatsrecipes. I’d love to see your photo of this Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail!
Reader Reviews for This Shrub co*cktail
★★★★★
Laura says –
“I stumbled across this recipe when I was first introduced to shrub making a few years ago and I come back to it time and time again. This is hands down my favorite shrub. So easy and flavorful, thank you for sharing!”
★★★★★
Randi says –
“Wow! I rarely comment on recipes – but WOW!!!
I made this for a dinner party and had to restrain my guests from drinking the shrub :D. We’ve been putting it in and on everything ever since – soda, apple cider, ice cream….any excuse to enjoy this delicious recipe.
We live near a gin distillery and it made a GREAT substitute once we ran out of bourbon. I’ll be making a BIG batch of it for stocking stuffers this year. THANK YOU!”
More Thanksgiving Recipes:
If you’re looking for additional inspiration for your Thanksgiving Menu this year, here are a few other favorite recipes.
In this recipe for Spiced Pomegranate Apple Cider Mulled Wine fresh pressed apple cider, tart pomegranate juice, and Tempranillo pair with mulling spices and fresh fruit to create a fall-inspired co*cktail, perfect for sipping during this autumn and winter season.
Brining a turkey in this Rosemary Beer Brine will tenderize the meat and infuse it with a TON of flavor for Turkey Day!
Classic buttery russet potato mashed potatoes are elevated thanks to the addition of plenty of browned butter and fresh grated parmesan in this Browned Butter Parmesan Mashed Potatoes.
LearnHow to Make Turkey Gravy with No Lumpsfor your Thanksgiving table.
If you like cranberry sauce better than gravy, try my recipe for Cranberry Orange Walnut RelishorRed Wine Pomegranate Cranberry Sauce.
In this recipe for Baked Sweet Potatoes with Pomegranate, sliced Sweet Potatoes are baked in a spiced orange maple glaze and sprinkled with juicy, bright pomegranate arils.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamicare a fantastic side dish that is full of delicious flavor – caramelized, roasted brussels sprouts, savory bacon, and tangy balsamic vinegar.
In this Massaged Kale Salad with Roasted Squash, Goat Cheese, and Pepitas kale is lightly massaged with olive oil, salt and pepper, before being tossed with roasted delicata squash, roasted red onions, herbed goat cheese, and pepitas.
Be sure to check out the whole Thanksgiving Recipes Archive right here if you need help building the rest of your menu.
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Have you ever made a shrub co*cktail before?
Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail
Yield: 3 co*cktails
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
This Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail is the perfect Thanksgiving co*cktail! A homemade cranberry shrub with hints of black pepper, rosemary, and cinnamon is combined with bourbon and seltzer for a festive and colorful drink!
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Rosemary Shrub
- 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
- 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 Cinnamon Stick
- 1 sprig Fresh Rosemary
- 1 teaspoon Black Peppercorn
For the Cranberry Shrub co*cktail with Bourbon
- 6 ounces Bourbon
- 3 ounces Cranberry Shrub
- 3 ounces Seltzer
- Rosemary, for garnish
- Cranberries, for garnish
Instructions
For the Cranberry Rosemary Shrub
- Add the cranberries, apple cider vinegar, sugar, cinnamon stick, rosemary, and black peppercorn in a 2 quart sauce pan.
- Bring the cranberry mixture to a boil over medium high heat, stirring the mixture so the sugar dissolves.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cool completely.
- Using a mesh strainer, strain the mixture into a glass jar.
- Discard the cinnamon stick and rosemary.
- You may like to reserve the cooked cranberries in a separate container to add them to the co*cktail for a garnish. Otherwise, use fresh cranberries for garnishing.
To Prepare the Cranberry Rosemary Shrub co*cktail co*cktail
- Fill a co*cktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Then, add the bourbon and shrub.
- Shake until chilled.
- Strain into 3 glasses with 1 large ice cube (or fill the glass halfway with ice)
- Top with seltzer and stir.
- Garnish each glass with rosemary sprigs and cranberries.
Notes
HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE SHRUB
Store the shrub in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.A glass jar works well for storage.
DO I HAVE TO USE BOURBON?
Not if you don’t like it! If you’d rather make your Thanksgiving co*cktails with another type of alcohol, go ahead. I think gin or vodka would be a good substitute for the bourbon in this recipe.
How to Make aCranberry Rosemary Shrub Mocktail
Shrubs are usually spiked drinks, but you can make this a mocktail, too, if you prefer!
- Fill a glass with ice, then add 1 - 2 tablespoons of shrub.
- Top the glass off with plain seltzer water, tonic water, or the popular La Croix (Cran-Apple would be great!).
- Garnish and serve!
Recommended Products
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 3Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 160Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 4mgCarbohydrates: 8gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 0g
GoodLifeEats.com offers recipe nutritional information as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although GoodLifeEats.com makes every effort to provide accurate information, these figures are only estimates.
