The Cosmopolitan, affectionately called “Cosmo,” is a stylish cocktail that gained considerable fame in the 1990s, largely thanks to the hit TV show “Sex and the City.” Created with a blend of vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, and a dash of lime juice, it’s a drink that fits the bill for almost any occasion. It gained modern fame thanks to iconic bartender Dale DeGroff, who served it to Madonna.
Dale DeGroff became famous for adding a flaming orange peel as a garnish to his Cosmo, making it a showstopper at his Rainbow Room bar in New York City.
This cocktail is perfect for celebratory events, dinner parties, or a girls’ night.
Fun fact: Did you know that the original Cosmopolitan was likely born in the 1970s, before its televised popularity?

Cosmopolitan Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Martini glass or coupe glass
- Double strainer
- Peeler for orange zest
- A match or lighter
- Jigger for measuring
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Vodka Ketel One recommended; substitute: any premium vodka
- 0.5 oz Cointreau substitute: Triple Sec
- 1.5 oz Cranberry juice substitute: cranberry juice cocktail
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice substitute: pre-packaged lime juice
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Choose your desired glass, either a martini glass or a coupe. Also, have your cocktail shaker ready.
- Pour 1.5 oz of vodka into the cocktail shaker.1.5 oz Vodka
- Add 0.5 oz of Cointreau to the mix.0.5 oz Cointreau
- Go for a balanced flavor with 1.5 oz of cranberry juice instead of 1 oz.1.5 oz Cranberry juice
- Just a few drops will do; do just what is necessary.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake it well until well chilled.Ice cubes
- Pour the liquid through a double strainer into your chosen glass.
- Use a peeler to shape another piece of orange zest. Please give it a twist and add it to the glass.
Flamed Orange Zest:
- Slice a swath of orange peel.
- Light a match, letting it burn momentarily to remove the sulfur.
- Heat the orange peel slightly.
- Squeeze it over the top of the drink, allowing the oils to catch fire briefly before extinguishing.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips for Success:
- Use a premium vodka for a smoother taste.
- Adjust cranberry juice based on your preference; 1 oz is recommended.
- Double straining helps to remove ice shards and pulp, making your drink smoother.
Calculate the Nutrition of the Drink:
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
What is the difference between a Cosmopolitan and Metropolitan cocktail?
Below is a comparison table to highlight these differences:
Feature | Cosmopolitan | Metropolitan |
---|---|---|
Main Spirit | Vodka | Brandy |
Secondary Spirit | Cointreau (or Triple Sec) | Sweet Vermouth |
Juice Element | Cranberry juice and a squeeze of lime juice | Lemon juice |
Glassware | Martini or coupe glass | Cocktail glass |
Garnish | Lime wheel or flamed orange zest | Lemon twist or cherry |
Flavor Profile | Citrusy and slightly tart, with a cranberry undertone | Sweet and fruity, with a brandy base |
Shaken or Stirred | Shaken with ice and double strained | Stirred with ice and strained |
Popularity | Highly popular, especially since the 1990s | It is less commonly found but a classic in its own right |
Occasion | Versatile—good for dinner parties, girls’ nights, and celebratory events | Best suited for intimate settings, like dinner parties or a quiet evening |
Color | Pinkish or light red | Amber or light brown |
Additional Flavors | Can add a flamed orange zest for a smoky undertone | Some variations include a dash of simple syrup or Angostura bitters |
Origin | Originated in the 1970s but gained popularity in the 1990s | The origin is unclear, but it’s a classic cocktail that predates the Cosmopolitan |

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