Easy Cranberry Mimosa Recipe: Your Perfect Festive Holiday Cocktail
Searching for a cocktail that’s both effortlessly simple and stunningly beautiful for your holiday gatherings? Look no further than this vibrant cranberry mimosa! With just three key ingredients and a mere three minutes of preparation, you’ll be ready to clink glasses and toast to the season with a drink that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This festive twist on a classic mimosa adds a beautiful splash of color and a delightful tart-sweet flavor, making it the quintessential drink for fall and winter celebrations.
Why This Cranberry Mimosa Recipe is Your Holiday Must-Have
While classic mimosas often take center stage at Mother’s Day brunches and summer gatherings, their versatility as a celebratory cocktail means they can be enjoyed year-round. This particular cranberry version transforms the traditional mimosa into a delightful seasonal beverage, perfect for the crisp days of fall and the joyous spirit of winter holidays. Its vibrant red hue and balanced sweet-tart flavor profile make it an instant hit for Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas morning celebrations, New Year’s Eve toasts, or any cozy holiday get-together.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its incredible simplicity and accessibility. You don’t need to be a seasoned mixologist to craft a stunning drink that impresses your guests. With just a handful of readily available ingredients, you can create an elegant cocktail that looks far more complicated than it actually is. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities rather than being stuck in the kitchen. The sparkling wine adds effervescence and a festive feel, while the juices provide a refreshing fruitiness that complements a wide range of holiday appetizers and meals.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Cranberry Mimosa
For precise measurements, a comprehensive ingredient list, and detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the conclusion of this post.
Crafting this festive cocktail requires only a few key components. The quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final taste, so choosing wisely will elevate your cranberry mimosa from good to exceptional. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Sparkling Wine or Prosecco: The foundation of any great mimosa! While traditional Champagne works beautifully, Prosecco offers a more budget-friendly yet equally delicious alternative. We’ll dive deeper into choices below.
- Orange Juice: Provides the classic mimosa sweetness and a touch of citrus.
- Pure Cranberry Juice: This is crucial for achieving the distinctive tart cranberry flavor and beautiful color. Note the emphasis on “pure” – we’ll explain why.
- Fresh Cranberries: An essential garnish that adds both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor.
Choosing Your Sparkling Wine: Champagne vs. Prosecco (and More!)
The choice of sparkling wine can significantly influence the character of your mimosa. While many automatically think of Champagne, there are excellent alternatives that are often more accessible and affordable, especially when mixing into a cocktail. Italian Prosecco, for example, is a fantastic choice for mimosas. It tends to be fruitier and less yeasty than traditional French Champagne, making it a harmonious partner for fruit juices. Other options include Spanish Cava, which is produced in a similar method to Champagne but offers a different flavor profile, often with hints of green apple and citrus. For a cranberry mimosa, a dry or Brut sparkling wine is generally preferred to balance the sweetness of the juices. Aim for a good quality but not overly expensive bottle, as its nuances will be softened by the fruit.
The Right Orange Juice for Your Mimosa
For the freshest and most vibrant flavor, freshly squeezed orange juice is always recommended. Its bright, natural sweetness and subtle tartness elevate the drink. However, if time is a constraint, a high-quality, not-from-concentrate bottled orange juice will certainly work. Opt for one that is 100% pure orange juice without added sugars or artificial flavors. Whether you prefer pulp or no pulp is entirely up to your personal preference; both work well in a mimosa.
Pure Cranberry Juice: Don’t Use Cranberry Juice Cocktail!
This is a critical distinction for the success of your cranberry mimosa. It is imperative to use *pure* cranberry juice, not a “cranberry juice cocktail.” Pure cranberry juice has a distinctly tart, robust berry flavor that is essential for balancing the sweetness of the orange juice and sparkling wine. Cranberry juice cocktail, on the other hand, is heavily sweetened and often diluted with other fruit juices like apple or grape. Using cranberry juice cocktail will result in an overly sweet drink that lacks the authentic, refreshing tartness that makes this mimosa so special. Always check the label to ensure you’re getting pure cranberry juice.
Garnishing with Fresh Cranberries
Fresh cranberries are not just for show; they add a lovely pop of color and a hint of tartness as you sip. You can simply float a few in each flute, or for an extra touch of elegance, consider sugaring them. To sugar cranberries, simply toss them with a little water, then roll them in granulated sugar and let them dry slightly. They’ll look like frosted jewels and add a beautiful sparkle to your festive drink.
Crafting Your Perfect Cranberry Mimosa: Step-by-Step Guide
The beauty of this cranberry mimosa is its flexibility – whether you’re concocting a single celebratory drink for yourself or preparing a pitcher for a lively crowd, the process is incredibly straightforward. Below, we’ll walk you through both scenarios, ensuring your mimosas are perfectly mixed every time. Remember, precise measurements for both options are conveniently provided in the recipe card at the end of this post.
For a Single, Sparkling Indulgence
- Pour the cranberry juice into a champagne flute. Begin by adding the specified amount of pure cranberry juice to the bottom of a chilled champagne flute. The vibrant red will form a beautiful base.
- Add orange juice. Next, gently pour in the orange juice. This creates a lovely two-toned effect before the sparkling wine is added, showcasing the festive colors.
- Top off with sparkling wine. Slowly fill the remainder of the flute with your chilled sparkling wine or Prosecco. Pouring slowly helps to preserve the precious bubbles, ensuring your mimosa is delightfully effervescent. The layers will naturally blend into a gorgeous festive hue.
- Garnish and Serve Immediately. Finish your masterpiece with a few fresh cranberries floating on top. If desired, add a small orange peel twist or a sprig of rosemary for an extra aromatic touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the full sparkle and chill.
Preparing Cranberry Mimosas for a Festive Crowd
When hosting a larger gathering, batching your cranberry mimosas in a large pitcher is a convenient and efficient way to serve. Simply combine your chilled sparkling wine, orange juice, and pure cranberry juice directly in the pitcher. Add a generous handful of fresh cranberries to float in the mixture for both beauty and flavor. Stir gently to combine the juices, being careful not to agitate the sparkling wine too much, as this will cause it to lose its carbonation prematurely.
Keep the pitcher chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve. As guests arrive or when you’re ready for toasts, pour the pre-mixed mimosa into individual champagne flutes as needed. This method allows your guests to help themselves, reducing your workload and ensuring everyone gets a perfectly mixed, festive drink. Just remember the advice on making these too far in advance to preserve the bubbles!
Cranberry Mimosa FAQs: Your Questions Answered
While Champagne is the traditional choice and certainly luxurious, there are many fantastic kinds of sparkling wine that work wonderfully in a mimosa. I often opt for Italian Prosecco because it’s typically more affordable than traditional French Champagne, yet it delivers a delightful fruit-forward flavor and lively bubbles that are just as delicious and celebratory in a cocktail. Other great options include Spanish Cava. The key is to choose a dry or Brut style to prevent the mimosa from becoming overly sweet when combined with the fruit juices.
For the absolute best flavor, freshly squeezed orange juice is highly recommended. It offers a brighter, more natural taste profile that truly elevates the mimosa. However, if you’re short on time or fresh oranges, a high-quality, not-from-concentrate bottled orange juice will certainly work well. Just make sure it’s 100% pure orange juice without added sugars or artificial ingredients to maintain the drink’s fresh taste.
No, it is very important to use pure cranberry juice for this recipe, not a cranberry juice cocktail. Pure cranberry juice has a distinct, tart berry flavor that is essential for balancing the sweetness of the orange juice and sparkling wine. Cranberry juice cocktail, on the other hand, is heavily sweetened and often contains other juices like apple or grape, which will make your mimosa excessively sweet and lacking the authentic cranberry essence. Always double-check the label to ensure you’re buying 100% pure cranberry juice.
Mimosas should always be served well-chilled, but ideally without ice. To achieve this, make sure to chill all your ingredients—the sparkling wine, orange juice, and cranberry juice—thoroughly in the refrigerator for several hours before you plan to mix your cocktails. Adding ice to a mimosa will dilute the flavors and, more importantly, quickly flatten the sparkling wine, causing it to lose its delightful effervescence. A perfectly chilled mimosa needs no ice.
For the best possible experience, I do not recommend making mimosas more than 15 minutes before serving. The moment sparkling wine or Prosecco is opened and exposed to air, it immediately begins to lose its bubbles. While you can pre-mix the juices in a pitcher, the sparkling wine should ideally be added just before serving, even when making a batch for a crowd. This ensures maximum fizziness and a refreshing, vibrant drink. Prepare your juices, chill them, and have your sparkling wine ready to open right before your guests are ready to enjoy.
Absolutely! To create a delicious non-alcoholic cranberry mimosa, simply substitute the sparkling wine or Prosecco with a non-alcoholic sparkling cider, sparkling grape juice, or even sparkling water for a less sweet option. The combination of cranberry juice and orange juice still creates a fantastic flavor profile, and the bubbles from the non-alcoholic sparkling base will maintain that celebratory feel. It’s a wonderful option for guests who prefer not to drink alcohol, or for a family-friendly holiday brunch.
Certainly! While delicious as is, you can always get creative. For an extra festive touch, rim your champagne flutes with sugar (regular or colored red/green). You could also add a splash of a complementary liqueur, such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier, for a subtle orange essence, or a touch of peach schnapps for a Bellini-mimosa hybrid. For garnish, consider adding a sprig of fresh rosemary for an aromatic hint, or even freezing a few cranberries into ice cubes (though we usually avoid ice, a decorative cranberry ice sphere could work if served quickly). A thin slice of orange or a twist of orange peel also makes an elegant garnish.
Tips for the Ultimate Cranberry Mimosa Experience
To ensure your cranberry mimosas are nothing short of perfect, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Chill All Ingredients Thoroughly: As mentioned, this is paramount. Warm ingredients will result in a less refreshing drink and can quickly deflate the sparkling wine. Plan ahead and chill your juices and sparkling wine for at least 2-3 hours before serving.
- Pour Gently: When adding the sparkling wine, tilt the champagne flute slightly and pour slowly down the side. This helps to preserve the carbonation, giving you a longer-lasting fizz.
- Balance the Flavors: The recommended ratio provides a good balance, but don’t hesitate to adjust it to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, slightly increase the orange juice. For a tarter mimosa, add a bit more pure cranberry juice.
- Consider Sugared Cranberries: For an extra festive and glamorous garnish, lightly coat fresh cranberries in sugar. Simply rinse the cranberries, let them dry slightly, then toss them in a bowl with granulated sugar until evenly coated. Let them sit for a few minutes to dry further before adding to your drink.
- Use the Right Glassware: Champagne flutes aren’t just for aesthetics; their tall, narrow shape helps to retain the bubbles, keeping your mimosa fizzy for longer.
Whether you’re hosting a grand holiday gala or simply enjoying an intimate gathering with loved ones, this easy cranberry mimosa is more than just a drink; it’s a delicious twist that embodies the festive spirit of the season. Its beautiful color and refreshing taste make it a memorable addition to any celebration.
More Delicious Holiday Cocktails to Explore
If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of festive sips, be sure to check out these other incredible holiday cocktail recipes. From warm punches to sparkling delights, there’s something here for every palate and occasion:
- Chocolate Peppermint Martini
- Hot Cranberry Punch
- Cranberry Prosecco Punch
- Cranberry Holiday Punch
- Mulled Wine
- Homemade Eggnog Cocktail
- Cranberry Sangria
- Caramel Apple Mimosa
- Spiked Caramel Apple Cider
I absolutely adore spending time in the kitchen, crafting new recipes, and sharing my culinary adventures with all of you! It can be tricky to remember to check back every day for new delights, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter delivered directly to your inbox whenever a new recipe is posted. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes – never miss a delicious update!
Cranberry Mimosa
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
For One Drink
- 4 ounces sparkling wine or Prosecco see notes
- 2 ounces orange juice
- 2 ounces pure cranberry juice
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
For A Crowd (serves 4-6)
- 750 ml bottle sparkling wine or Prosecoo
- 1 ¼ cups orange juice
- ½ cup pure cranberry juice
- Fresh cranberries for garnish
Things You’ll Need
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Champagne flutes
Before You Begin
- There are many kinds of sparkling wine. I often opt for Italian Prosecco in a mimosa because it’s more affordable than traditional French Champagne— but still just as delicious.
- I recommend using freshly squeezed orange juice, although bottled will work as well.
- It is important to use pure cranberry juice, not cranberry juice cocktail. Pure cranberry juice has a more tart, berry flavor while cranberry juice cocktail is very sweet and fruity.
- Make sure to chill the sparkling wine, orange juice, and cranberry juice before making your cocktail. Mimosas should be served chilled, but not with ice.
- I do not recommend making mimosa more than 15 minutes before serving as the sparkling wine will start to flatten (lose its bubbles) immediately once opened.
Instructions
For One Drink
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Add the sparkling wine, orange juice, and cranberry juice to a champagne flute. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries. Serve immediately.
For A Crowd
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Combine the sparkling wine, orange juice, cranberry juice, and fresh cranberries in a large pitcher. Pour into champagne flutes as needed.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.