The Cape Codder (or Cape Cod) is essentially a Vodka Cranberry. But no matter what you call it, it’s a refreshing cocktail that works for any occasion. This guide provides some useful tips on how you can make perfect Cape Codder drinks.
Cape Codder Cocktail Recipe and Instructions
The Cape Codder is a popular drink that only needs two ingredients: vodka and cranberry juice. And who doesn’t love these types of recipes?
Add some fresh lime to garnish, but you can skip it if you don’t want any citrus flavors.
This simple drink is mixed in just a few seconds as follows:
- Pour the vodka and cranberry juice into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Stir quickly to combine
- Splash some lime juice and drop the wedge into the glass
And you’re done!
Even better, you don’t have to worry too much about quantities here. The classic Cape Codder cocktail recipe calls for around 1 1/2 ounces of vodka and then fills your standard highball glass with cranberry juice.
But feel free to make your vodka cranberry boozier if you prefer.
Cape Codder Cocktail Nutrition Facts
This vodka cocktail is relatively low in calories, especially if you stick to the classic recipe.
Here’s a breakdown of its nutrition facts for one glass:
- 137 Calories
- 19.9g carbs (16.5g sugars)
- 10% ABV
Most of the calories and sugars come from cranberries, and you can lower these numbers if you choose unsweetened drinks. But you should also know that capers offer a healthy dose of Vitamin C for balance.
Tips for Serving a Cape Cod Cocktail
Cape Cod’s simplicity makes it a versatile beverage you could be drinking out at a restaurant or at home relaxing.
Here are some tips for serving Cape Cod cocktails the right way if you’re having a dinner party:
- Time and place: Cape Cod is the perfect drink for a house party. You can make it punch-style, mix it in a larger bowl, and have guests top off their glasses when they want.
- Food: It’s cranberry spiked with vodka, so this drink pairs well with breakfast and brunch food like eggs, toast, frittatas, and more.
- On the rocks: This popular cocktail is best poured over ice, so if you’re throwing a party, have an ice bucket on hand instead of mixing it in with the cocktail directly. As the ice melts, the drink becomes more watery and less tasty.
- Garnish on hand: These types of cocktails aren’t usually pre-mixed with lime juice, so have a plate with a few of them so guests can garnish their own glass. Feel free to add other toppings, like frozen fruits.
Cape Codder Recipe Variations
The Vodka Cranberry has been the inspiration for other great recipes you should try.
Here are a few of them:
- Sparkling Cape Cod: Add some sparkling water to make the Cape Cod more bubbly. It gives it new dimensions and ups its refreshing qualities.
- Hawaiian Sea Breeze: Add pineapple juice to the Cape Codder cocktail, and you get a completely new tropical drink (also known as the Bay Breeze).
- The Madras: If cranberry isn’t enough to mask the vodka taste (in case you’re into that), splash some extra orange juice to get a Madras. A sweet and sour combo that’s also a brunch classic.
- Red Devil: This is another perfect cocktail for brunch, but it’s more complex and liquor-friendly. It mixes vodka with grenadine, peach schnapps, triple sec, gin, and orange juice. The drink is worth the grocery shopping, though.
Wrapping Up
One glass of Cape Codder will prove that sometimes the simplest combinations are the best. Add some fresh lime to the mix or a more creative garnish, and you’ll make the vodka cranberry your go-to booze for happy hour fun.
