CRANBERRY-JALAPENO MARTINI

Cranberry-Jalapeno Martini image

I describe this cocktail as slightly tart, a little sassy and completely delicious. I make a big batch when I'm hosting a party because it tends to disappear quickly. Garnish with fresh mint and cranberries for an extra-special touch. -Kelli Haetinger, Virginia Beach, Virginia

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 30m

Yield 16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

1 cup turbinado (washed raw) sugar
1-1/2 cups cranberry juice, divided
1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 teaspoon chopped seeded jalapeno pepper
Ice cubes
6 cups vodka
Fresh mint leaves and additional cranberries

Steps:

In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, 1/2 cup cranberry juice, cranberries and jalapeno. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 3 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from the heat. Cover and let stand for 20 minutes. , Strain, discarding cranberries and jalapeno. Cover and refrigerate syrup for at least 2 hours or until chilled., For each serving, fill a mixing glass or tumbler three-fourths full with ice. Add 3 ounces vodka, 1 tablespoon cranberry juice and 1 tablespoon cranberry syrup; stir until condensation forms on outside of glass. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Repeat. Garnish with mint and cranberries if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 252 calories, Fat 0 fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 1mg sodium, Carbohydrate 15g carbohydrate (15g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 0 protein.