Forktionary
Liqueur|Fruit Liqueur | Vegetarian

Cranberry Liqueur

N/A (Processed Product) Allergen-Free
Cranberry Liqueur

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Ericaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Western|Cocktail
  • Seasonality Year-Round (cranberries peak in autumn)
  • Source Cranberries, Sugar, Grain Alcohol

The Forktionary Angle

"A versatile berry liqueur that brightens drinks and dishes with its characteristic tartness and ruby hue."

Definition

Cranberry liqueur is a sweet, tart alcoholic beverage infused with the distinct flavor of cranberries, often with a vibrant red hue.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Tart, Fruity (cranberry specific), Slightly Bitter
TextureSyrupy, Smooth, Viscous
AromaFruity, Tart, Sweet, Cranberry specific
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Main Antioxidant

Proanthocyanidins (PACs)

Seasonal Popularity

Autumn/Winter (Thanksgiving/Christmas)

Typical ABV Range

15-25%

Nutrition Facts

Per 30ml (1 oz)
Calories250 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate25 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars25 g
Calcium0 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium0 mg

Chef’s Secret

Make your own by infusing dried or fresh cranberries in vodka with sugar for several weeks; it offers a more natural cranberry flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

Cranberry Juice + Vodka/Brandy

Varying (to taste)

DIY option for both flavor and alcohol content; adjust sweetness with simple syrup.

Crème de Cassis

1:1

Similar berry liqueur, but blackcurrant flavor is distinct; can work in cocktails where a dark berry note is acceptable.

Raspberry Liqueur

1:1

Another berry liqueur, offering sweetness and fruitiness, but lacking cranberry's characteristic tartness.

Cranberry Syrup (non-alcoholic)

1:1

For non-alcoholic applications like mocktails or desserts; lacks the alcoholic depth.

Buying Guide

Explore different brands for flavor profiles. Check ABV and sugar content.

Flavor Pairings

Gin vodka sparkling wine lemon orange rosemary chocolate vanilla.