Christmas Cranberry + Vodka Spritzer With Rosemary Simple Syrup

Christmas is in 3 freaking days, guys. It sure doesn’t feel that way. I must admit, I’m feeling a little bah humbug this year. You see, for the first time in my entire life, I won’t be spending Christmas with any family. Okay, besides Chris - and yeah, I suppose my amazingly loving husband counts as family. Oh, and the pup and 2 felines too. But you know what I mean. It’s just not the same. Then again, Christmas hasn’t been the same for several years now.

It’s totally okay though. Chris and I are going to make the best of it even though our guest bathroom renovation is taking the place of presents this year. And once we have kids, Christmas will definitely be grand again. But I’d be lying if I said I’m not going to really miss spending the holiday with my big brother, sister-in-law, Pops, Chris’ awesome family, and of course, all of my best friends too.

So we’ll probably just be drowning our sorrows in food...and booze. Because once January 1st hits, yours truly is determined to get back on track in terms of health and fitness. And neither the large amounts of alcohol or cookies and pizza I’ve been consuming lately really fit into that whole plan.

But until January 1, you can bet I’ll be sipping on some of my favorite libations - like this Cranberry Rosemary Spritzer right here. Because cranberry is queen in December as far as I’m concerned. And because herb infused simple syrups are just the best.

Go on ahead and make yourself one...or four. You know that’s how I’ll be rolling all Christmas day.

Cranberry + Vodka Spritzer With Rosemary Simple Syrup

2 ounces your Favorite Vodka

4 ounces cranberry juice

2 teaspoons rosemary infused simple syrup (recipe below)

Soda water or sparkling water to top (you can use Ginger Ale or Sprite too if you want it sweeter)

Combine the vodka, cranberry juice, and simple syrup to a rocks glass and stir. Add ice and top with soda water or sparkling water. Enjoy!

Rosemary Simple Syrup

Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup sugar, and ¼ cup fresh rosemary sprigs in a small saucepan and bring to a boil until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain out the syrup and discard the rosemary. Keep leftover in fridge in a tightly covered container for up to 2 days.