Cosmo Summer Slush: the very words conjure images of sun-drenched patios, laughter with friends, and the delightful tingle of a perfectly balanced cocktail. But what if I told you that you could capture all of that in a single, frosty, utterly irresistible slushie? Forget complicated mixology and endless ingredients; this recipe is all about simplicity and maximum refreshment.

The Cosmopolitan, the inspiration for our Cosmo Summer Slush, boasts a surprisingly modern history. While its exact origins are debated, most credit its rise to fame to the 1990s, thanks to its prominent placement in popular culture. It quickly became *the* drink to order, synonymous with sophistication and a touch of playful glamour.

But why does the Cosmo endure? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and boozy, a symphony of cranberry, lime, vodka, and orange liqueur that dances on your palate. And now, imagine that iconic flavor profile transformed into a frozen delight! This slushie is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. It’s the ideal way to beat the heat, impress your guests, or simply treat yourself to a little bit of summer bliss. Get ready to experience the Cosmo in a whole new, incredibly refreshing way!

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
1/2 cup fresh lime juice (approximately 4-5 limes)
1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
1/4 cup vodka (or more, to taste!)
1/4 cup simple syrup (or more, to taste – see instructions below)
4 cups ice cubes
Lime wedges, for garnish
Raspberries, for garnish
Optional: Orange zest, for garnish

Making the Simple Syrup (if needed):

If you don’t have simple syrup on hand, don’t worry! It’s super easy to make. This step is crucial if you want to control the sweetness of your Cosmo Summer Slush. Store-bought simple syrup can sometimes be overly sweet, so making your own allows you to adjust it to your liking.

Combine equal parts water and granulated sugar in a small saucepan. I usually use 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of sugar, which will yield slightly less than 1 cup of simple syrup. You can easily scale this up or down depending on how much you need.
Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure there are no sugar granules left at the bottom of the pan.
Remove from heat and let cool completely. This is important! You don’t want to add hot syrup to your slush, as it will melt the ice too quickly.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. I like to use a glass jar with a lid.

Preparing the Cosmo Summer Slush:

Now for the fun part! This is where we transform all those delicious ingredients into a refreshing and vibrant Cosmo Summer Slush. The key to a perfect slush is getting the right consistency not too watery, not too thick. We’ll achieve this by carefully layering the ingredients and blending until smooth.

Combine the cranberries, raspberries, lime juice, orange liqueur, vodka, and simple syrup in a blender. I recommend using a high-powered blender for the best results, but any blender should work. If you’re using frozen fruit, you might need to add a little extra liquid to help it blend smoothly.
Add the ice cubes. Start with 4 cups of ice, but you might need to add more depending on the strength of your blender and the consistency you’re aiming for.
Blend until smooth. This might take a minute or two, depending on your blender. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly blended.
Check the consistency. The slush should be thick and smooth, like a frozen smoothie. If it’s too thick, add a little more lime juice or water. If it’s too thin, add more ice. Blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust. This is the most important step! Taste the slush and adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking. If it’s not sweet enough, add more simple syrup. If it’s too sweet, add more lime juice. You can also add more vodka if you want a stronger drink.

Serving and Garnishing:

Presentation is key! A beautifully garnished Cosmo Summer Slush is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some tips for serving and garnishing your slush to make it extra special.

Pour the slush into chilled glasses. Chilling the glasses beforehand will help keep the slush cold for longer. You can chill them in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
Garnish with lime wedges and raspberries. A lime wedge on the rim of the glass and a few fresh raspberries floating on top will add a pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Garnish with orange zest. A sprinkle of orange zest will add a fragrant and zesty aroma to your slush.
Serve immediately and enjoy! Cosmo Summer Slush is best enjoyed fresh, before the ice starts to melt.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your Cosmo Summer Slush? Here are some tips and variations to try:

Use different berries. Feel free to experiment with other berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Each berry will add its own unique flavor and color to the slush.
Add a splash of cranberry juice. For a more intense cranberry flavor, add a splash of cranberry juice to the blender.
Make it non-alcoholic. Simply omit the vodka and orange liqueur for a refreshing non-alcoholic slush. You can replace the vodka with sparkling water or club soda for a little fizz.
Add a touch of ginger. A small piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated, will add a spicy and warming note to the slush.
Use flavored vodka. Experiment with different flavored vodkas, such as citrus vodka or raspberry vodka, to add an extra layer of flavor.
Make a large batch. This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to make a large batch for parties or gatherings. Just make sure you have a large enough blender!
Freeze the slush for later. If you have any leftover slush, you can freeze it in an airtight container for later. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw slightly and then blend it again until smooth.

Choosing the Right Ingredients:

The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste of your Cosmo Summer Slush. Here’s what to look for when selecting your ingredients:

Cranberries and Raspberries: Fresh is always best, especially when they are in season. Look for plump, firm berries with a vibrant color. If using frozen berries, make sure they are not freezer-burned.
Limes: Choose limes that are heavy for their size and have a smooth, shiny skin. Avoid limes that are hard or have blemishes.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau and Triple Sec are both excellent choices. Cointreau is a bit more expensive but has a smoother, more refined flavor. Triple Sec is a more budget-friendly option that still works well.
Vodka: Use a good quality vodka that you enjoy drinking. There’s no need to use top-shelf vodka for a slush, but avoid the cheapest options, as they can have a harsh taste.
Simple Syrup: As mentioned earlier, making your own simple syrup is the best way to control the sweetness of your slush.
Ice: Use good quality ice that is made from filtered water. Avoid ice that has been sitting in the freezer for too long, as it can absorb odors and flavors.

Troubleshooting:

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common problems you might encounter when making Cosmo Summer Slush and how to fix them:

Slush is too watery: Add more ice and blend again until smooth.
Slush is too thick: Add a little more lime juice or water and blend again until smooth.
Slush is not sweet enough: Add more simple syrup and blend again until smooth.
Slush is too sweet: Add more lime juice and blend again until smooth.
Blender is struggling to blend the ice: Add a little more liquid to help the ice blend more easily. You can also try using a smaller amount of ice at a time.
Slush is separating: This can happen if the slush sits for too long. Simply stir it well before serving.

Health Considerations:

While Cosmo Summer Slush is a delicious and refreshing treat, it’s important to be mindful of its sugar and alcohol content. Here are some health considerations to keep in mind:

Sugar: The simple syrup adds a significant amount of sugar to the slush. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of simple syrup or use a sugar substitute.
Alcohol: The vodka and orange liqueur contribute to the alcohol content of the slush. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any health conditions that prevent you from drinking alcohol, you should omit these ingredients.
Calories: Cosmo Summer Slush can be relatively high in calories, especially if you add a lot of simple syrup or alcohol. Be mindful of your portion sizes and enjoy it in moderation.
Hydration: While the slush contains ice,

Conclusion:

This Cosmo Summer Slush is more than just a drink; it’s a vibrant, refreshing experience that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Its bright, tangy flavor profile, combined with the icy chill, makes it an absolute must-try for anyone looking to beat the heat and add a touch of elegance to their gatherings. I truly believe this recipe will become a staple in your summer rotation.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Forget complicated cocktails that take ages to prepare; this slush comes together in minutes, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the sunshine. The combination of cranberry, lime, and vodka creates a sophisticated yet playful taste that’s both invigorating and satisfying. Plus, the beautiful pink hue makes it a visually stunning addition to any party or casual get-together. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and boozy, making it a crowd-pleaser for sure.

But the best part? The versatility! While I love it as is, there are so many ways you can customize this Cosmo Summer Slush to suit your preferences. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the vodka and add a splash of sparkling water or club soda for extra fizz. You could also experiment with different fruit combinations. Imagine adding a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries for an even more intense berry flavor. Or, for a tropical twist, try incorporating a bit of pineapple juice or mango puree.

Serving suggestions are endless. This slush is fantastic on its own, served in chilled martini glasses or even fun, colorful tumblers. For a more festive presentation, garnish with a lime wedge, a few cranberries, or even a sprig of mint. It also pairs beautifully with light appetizers like bruschetta, shrimp cocktail, or a cheese and charcuterie board. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete summer meal. And for dessert? A slice of key lime pie or a scoop of raspberry sorbet would be the perfect complement.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation! You could even rim the glasses with sugar or salt for an extra touch of elegance. For a larger gathering, consider making a big batch of the slush base ahead of time and storing it in the freezer. Then, when your guests arrive, simply blend it up and serve. This will save you time and ensure that everyone gets a perfectly chilled drink.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s the perfect way to elevate your summer gatherings and impress your friends and family. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, dust off your blender, and get ready to experience the ultimate summer refreshment. I’m certain that this Cosmo Summer Slush will become your go-to drink for all your warm-weather celebrations.

I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please, please, please try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what garnishes you used, and what your guests thought. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I love hearing from my readers. So, go ahead, give it a try, and let’s make this summer the most delicious one yet! Happy blending!
Cosmo Summer Slush: The Ultimate Refreshing Recipe

A refreshing Cosmo Summer Slush with cranberries, raspberries, lime juice, orange liqueur, and vodka, blended to frozen perfection.

Prep Time5 minutes

Cook Time5 minutes

Total Time10 minutes

Category: Dessert

Yield: 2 servings

Save This Recipe

Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (approximately 4-5 limes)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1/4 cup vodka (or more, to taste!)
- 1/4 cup simple syrup (or more, to taste)
- 4 cups ice cubes
- Lime wedges, for garnish
- Raspberries, for garnish
- Optional: Orange zest, for garnish
Instructions
1. Make Simple Syrup (if needed): Combine equal parts water and granulated sugar in a small saucepan (e.g., 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar). Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved (3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a blender, combine the cranberries, raspberries, lime juice, orange liqueur, vodka, and simple syrup.
3. Add Ice: Add the ice cubes to the blender.
4. Blend: Blend until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula.
5. Check Consistency: The slush should be thick and smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little more lime juice or water. If it’s too thin, add more ice. Blend again.
6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the slush and adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking. Add more simple syrup if it’s not sweet enough, or more lime juice if it’s too sweet. Add more vodka for a stronger drink.
7. Serve: Pour the slush into chilled glasses.
8. Garnish: Garnish with lime wedges and raspberries. Optionally, garnish with orange zest.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a high-powered blender for best results.
- If using frozen fruit, you might need to add a little extra liquid to help it blend smoothly.
- Chilling the glasses beforehand will help keep the slush cold for longer.
- Adjust the amount of vodka and simple syrup to your taste.
- Experiment with different berries, flavored vodkas, or a splash of cranberry juice for variations.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and orange liqueur.
- If the slush is too watery, add more ice. If it’s too thick, add more lime juice or water.
- If the slush is not sweet enough, add more simple syrup. If it’s too sweet, add more lime juice.

Cosmo Summer Slush: The Ultimate Refreshing Recipe