Nothing says “celebrate” quite like clinking glasses with a bubbly cocktail in hand, and my cranberry mimosa is the perfect way to toast to any special occasion. I fell in love with this drink at my first holiday brunch years ago – that gorgeous ruby color against the champagne bubbles just screams festive. What I love most is how effortlessly fancy it feels, yet it takes barely five minutes to make. Whether it’s Christmas morning, New Year’s brunch, or just a “treat yourself” weekend, this cranberry mimosa has become my go-to for adding a little sparkle to everyday moments. Plus, that sweet-tart flavor? Absolute magic.
Cranberry Mimosa Ingredients
This beauty only needs a handful of ingredients, but trust me—quality makes all the difference here. Here’s what you’ll need for one gorgeous glass (double or triple as needed!):
- ½ cup cranberry juice (freshly squeezed if you can—it’s brighter and less sugary than bottled, but no shame in store-bought!)
- ½ cup champagne or sparkling wine (go for brut or extra dry—the tart cranberry doesn’t need extra sweetness competing with it)
- 1 tsp orange liqueur (optional, but oh my goodness does it add a warm, citrusy depth—Grand Marnier is my splurge, but Cointreau works too)
- Fresh cranberries or orange slice for garnish (because we eat with our eyes first, darling!)
See? Simple as can be—but these little touches? That’s where the magic happens.
How to Make a Cranberry Mimosa
Okay, here’s the best part—this drink comes together faster than you can say “cheers!” But don’t let that fool you into rushing. A few little tricks make all the difference between “nice” and “WOW.”
First, chill everything—your champagne flute, the cranberry juice, even the champagne bottle. Trust me, nothing kills bubbles faster than warm glassware. Then, pour the cranberry juice into your frosty glass first—it should fill about halfway. Now the fun part: tilt your glass slightly and gently pour in the champagne down the side. This keeps the bubbles lively instead of fizzing over like a science experiment gone wrong!
If you’re using orange liqueur, add it now—just a teaspoon gives it that holiday-worthy depth. Stir once, ever so lightly, with a long spoon. Then comes the crowning glory…
Garnishing Your Cranberry Mimosa
Slide an orange wheel onto the rim or drop in a few fresh cranberries—they’ll bob cheerfully in the bubbles. No fresh cranberries? A twist of orange peel or even frozen cranberries work in a pinch. Feeling fancy? A quick sugar rim (dip the glass in orange juice, then coarse sugar) adds festive sparkle. Now sip immediately—those bubbles wait for no one!
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Mimosa
Here’s the thing—anyone can pour juice and champagne together, but these little tricks? They’ll make your cranberry mimosa sing. First, splurge on decent bubbly—a dry prosecco or cava works if champagne feels too fancy, but skip anything labeled “extra dry” unless you like your drinks sweeter than a Hallmark movie.
Too tart for your taste? A drizzle of simple syrup tames it beautifully. And please—serve these immediately! Those delicate bubbles fade fast. Bonus tip: swap in non-alcoholic sparkling cider and a splash of orange juice for the most festive “mock-mosa” your brunch table has ever seen. Cheers to that!
Cranberry Mimosa Variations
Want to mix it up? Try swapping half the cranberry juice for pomegranate juice—it’s just as festive with a richer, deeper flavor. Or use prosecco instead of champagne for a slightly fruitier vibe. Feeling zesty? A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright, tangy kick. Cheers to creativity!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Mimosa
This cranberry mimosa is a brunch superstar—it pairs perfectly with fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, or a savory quiche. Serve it at holiday gatherings, bridal showers, or even as a festive toast during Thanksgiving dinner. It’s also a gorgeous addition to New Year’s Eve celebrations. Cheers to making every moment special!
Cranberry Mimosa FAQs
Can I use bottled cranberry juice?
Absolutely! Fresh is fantastic, but bottled works in a pinch—just check the label for 100% juice with no added sugars. Ocean Spray’s classic works great, but if it’s too tart for you, a splash of simple syrup balances it perfectly.
How far ahead can I make these?
Honestly? Right before serving is best—those bubbles disappear fast! If you must prep, keep juice and champagne separate until the last minute. Pre-chilled flutes and garnishes ready to go? That’s your best time-saver.
What’s the best champagne for cranberry mimosas?
Go for brut or extra dry—the cranberry’s natural sweetness shines without competing with sugary bubbly. My budget-friendly pick? Prosecco or Spanish cava. Splurge-worthy? A crisp French blanc de blancs makes it feel like a five-star brunch.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
You bet! Swap champagne for ginger ale or sparkling cider, and add extra orange juice for that mimosa vibe. Kids (and designated drivers) deserve festive sips too!
Nutrition Information
One cranberry mimosa (with champagne and no orange liqueur) comes in at about 120 calories, 12g carbs, and 10g sugar. Using fresh juice instead of bottled might shave off a gram or two of sugar—but let’s be real, this is a celebration drink, not a salad. Values will vary slightly depending on your champagne and juice brands, so sip happily and don’t stress the small stuff!
Did you whip up this festive drink? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Snap a photo of your bubbly creation and tag me—nothing makes me happier than seeing your holiday sips. Cheers, friends!
Print5-Minute Cranberry Mimosa Recipe for Festive Celebrations
A refreshing cocktail combining cranberry juice and champagne for a festive drink.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup champagne or sparkling wine
- 1 tsp orange liqueur (optional)
- Fresh cranberries or orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- Chill the champagne and cranberry juice.
- Pour cranberry juice into a champagne flute.
- Top with champagne.
- Add orange liqueur if desired.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries or an orange slice.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed cranberry juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust sweetness with a splash of simple syrup if needed.
- Replace champagne with non-alcoholic sparkling cider for a mocktail version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
