Red Devil Cocktail Recipe: The Original Cape Codder
Learn how to make the original Red Devil cocktail, a vintage vodka cranberry drink from the 1940s that eventually became known as the Cape Codder.
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Before it became the Cape Codder, this classic vodka cranberry cocktail was known as the Red Devil.
First promoted in the 1940s, the Red Devil combined vodka, cranberry juice, and lime in a simple, refreshing drink that helped introduce Americans to year-round cranberry cocktails. Eventually, the drink was renamed the Cape Codder after the famous cranberry-growing region in Massachusetts.
Frankly, I think the original name had a lot more personality.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, lounging on the porch with a slice of fresh strawberry pie, or pretending your suburban patio is actually a seaside cottage in New England, this vintage cocktail deserves a spot in your summer rotation.
It’s bright, refreshing, and delightfully unfussy. No expensive syrups. No obscure liqueurs you’ll use once and forget about.
In other words, exactly the kind of drink our grandparents would have happily served at a summer gathering.
Quick Drink Facts
What the Devil Is a Red Devil Cocktail?
The original Red Devil cocktail is a simple combination of vodka, cranberry juice, and a lime wedge.
Believe it or not, the Red Devil wasn’t invented by a famous bartender or dreamed up in a smoky cocktail lounge.
The cocktail first appeared in an Ocean Spray advertisement in 1945 as a way to encourage Americans to enjoy cranberry juice beyond Thanksgiving dinner. As vodka exploded in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, the drink caught on and eventually became known as the Cape Codder.
Of course, these days many people don’t even know what a Cape Codder is. They simply order a vodka cranberry and call it a day.
Fun Fact
In the 1972 mixology book Trader Vic’s Bartender’s Guide, a nearly identical cocktail appeared under the name Rangoon Ruby. However, the Cape Codder is the name that ultimately stuck.
Personally, I’m still rooting for Red Devil.
Red Devil Ingredients
How to Serve a Red Devil for a Vintage Americana Party
If there were ever a cocktail made for summer entertaining, this is it.
The bright red color practically begs to be served alongside red, white, and blue decorations, vintage picnic baskets, gingham napkins, and bowls of salty snacks. If you’re decorating for the occasion, my Vintage Cottage 4th of July Decor ideas are full of simple Americana touches that pair perfectly with this nostalgic cocktail. It’s right at home at a backyard barbecue, a Fourth of July gathering, or a quiet evening spent on the porch.
I love serving Red Devils in simple highball glasses filled with plenty of ice, a fun paper straw, and one of my blue bow drink charms for a little extra personality.
Pair it with burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, or even pizza delivery if you’re embracing the lazy days of summer. Its tart, refreshing flavor cuts through rich foods beautifully.
And if you’re using vintage glassware, even better. This cocktail was born during the golden age of cocktail parties and hostess sets, so it feels perfectly at home in thrifted glasses with a little history behind them.
Other Cocktails Inspired by the Red Devil
Try one of these additions to create an entirely different cocktail using the same classic vodka cranberry base.
Sea Breeze
Add grapefruit juice.
Bay Breeze
Add pineapple juice.
Madras
Add orange juice.
Woo Woo
Add peach schnapps.
Looking for a patriotic pairing? Serve a pitcher of Red Devils alongside my Blue Lagoon Cocktail for a festive red-and-blue cocktail bar that’s perfect for Fourth of July parties and summer cookouts.
How to Make a Batch Red Devil Cocktail (8 Servings)
Ingredients
- 2 cups (16 oz.) vodka
- 2 cups (16 oz.) unsweetened cranberry juice
- 1 cup (8 oz.) simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 8 lime wedges, for garnish (optional)
- Ice, for serving
Instructions
- Combine the vodka, cranberry juice, and simple syrup in a large pitcher. Stir well.
- Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, at least 1 hour.
- Fill highball glasses with ice.
- Pour about 5 ounces of the cocktail into each glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge, if desired.
Entertaining Tip
For the best flavor, don’t add ice to the pitcher. Instead, chill the cocktail ahead of time and pour it over fresh ice just before serving. That way, every glass stays cold without becoming watered down.
Can You Make a Red Devil Cocktail Ahead of Time?
Yes. Mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and simple syrup several hours in advance and refrigerate. Add ice and garnish just before serving.
There is something delightfully old-fashioned about serving a cocktail that was popular when cocktail parties involved hostess dresses, cigarette boxes, and colorful glassware. The Red Devil feels like it belongs in that era, which may be exactly why it still works today.
No matter how you decide to enjoy it, this vintage cranberry cocktail is a delicious reminder that sometimes the classics stick around for a reason.
Cheers to Summer!
♥ Jessica
Red Devil Cocktail Recipe: The Original Cape Codder
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Vodka
- 2 oz. Pure Cranberry Juice unsweetened
- 1 oz. Simple Syrup
- Lime wedge for garnish optional
Instructions
- Fill a highball or old-fashioned glass with ice.
- Pour vodka, cranberry juice and simple syrup over the ice and stir to combine.
- Add a fresh lime wedge on top if desired and serve.
Notes
- If you prefer your drink a bit more tart, add an additional 1 oz of cranberry juice.
- If you prefer your drink sweeter add an additional 1/2 oz of simple syrup.
More Cocktail Recipes
One cocktail is rarely enough. Explore more of my favorite drink recipes for every season, every celebration, and every excuse to dust off the good glassware.
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