As the holiday season approaches, I can’t help but imagine the delightful clinking of glasses and the laughter shared over a festive brunch. There’s something so uplifting about raising a glass filled with a vibrant cranberry mimosa, bursting with a ruby red hue and refreshing zest. This easy-to-make cocktail combines the tartness of cranberry juice and the tropical sweetness of pineapple orange juice, all topped with bubbly sparkling wine.
What I love most about this festive drink is its versatility—whether it’s a cozy morning during Christmas or a lavish New Year’s brunch, this mimosa is sure to impress your guests while keeping your prep simple. Plus, with a garnish of frozen cranberries and a sprig of mint, this drink not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as a stunning centerpiece to your table. Let’s dive into this festive recipe that promises to elevate your holiday gatherings and leave everyone reaching for another glass!
Why is Cranberry Mimosa a Must-Try?
Effortless Preparation: This recipe is remarkably easy, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal time to create a stunning cocktail.
Vibrant Flavor: The tart cranberry and sweet pineapple orange juices make for a refreshingly delicious drink that everyone will love.
Festive Presentation: Garnished with frozen cranberries and an orange twist, it adds a visually appealing touch to any holiday gathering.
Versatile Occasion: Perfect for Christmas brunch, New Year’s celebrations, or any festive occasion where you want to impress your guests.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the juice mixture in advance to save time, allowing you to enjoy the party without missing a beat!
Crowd-Pleasing Drink: This cranberry mimosa stands out as a favorite due to its delightful balance of flavors and cheerful color, making it a go-to for celebrations.
Cranberry Mimosa Ingredients
For the Juice Mix
• Cranberry Juice – Use 100% cranberry juice for an authentic tart flavor that makes this cranberry mimosa really shine.
• Pineapple Orange Juice – Adds a sweet, tropical twist that perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberry.
For the Bubbly
• Sparkling Wine – Prosecco or cava is ideal; both provide that celebratory fizz essential for a festive drink.
For Garnishing
• Frozen Cranberries – Not just for decoration; they keep your drink cold without dilution.
• Orange Twist – Adds a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma that enhances the overall experience.
• Mint Sprig – Provides a refreshing hint of minty flavor while looking gorgeous as a garnish.
This easy-to-make cranberry mimosa recipe is your ticket to a festive and fabulous holiday brunch!
How to Make Cranberry Mimosa
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Combine Juices: In a pitcher, mix 2 oz. of 100% cranberry juice with 1 oz. of pineapple orange juice. Stir well to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Chill Mixture: If you’re preparing ahead, chill the juice mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to ensure it’s refreshingly cool when served.
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Pour Sparkling Wine: When ready to serve, fill a champagne flute with 3 oz. of sparkling wine, tilting the glass slightly to preserve the bubbles.
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Add Juice Mixture: Carefully pour the chilled juice mixture into the flute over the sparkling wine. Stir gently to combine without losing that delightful fizz.
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Garnish Beautifully: Top your drink with a few frozen cranberries, an orange twist, and a sprig of fresh mint for an inviting and festive touch.
Optional: Serve alongside a delicious brunch spread for an unforgettable celebration!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Mimosas are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday brunch prep! You can mix the juice combination (2 oz. cranberry juice and 1 oz. pineapple orange juice) and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a refreshing base ready to go. Just remember to keep the juice mixture covered to maintain its vibrant flavor. When it’s time to serve, pour 3 oz. of sparkling wine into a flute and gently add the chilled juice mixture. Garnish with frozen cranberries, an orange twist, and a mint sprig for that festive touch. Enjoy the ease of serving a stunning cocktail without the last-minute rush!
Cranberry Mimosa Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up with these fun and exciting twists on the classic cranberry mimosa!
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Juice Swap: Try using pomegranate juice instead of cranberry for a different take on tartness and a striking color.
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Tropical Twist: Replace pineapple orange juice with mango or passion fruit juice for an exotic flavor that brings a sunny vibe to your brunch.
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Non-Alcoholic Option: Use sparkling water or flavored soda instead of sparkling wine for a festive, non-alcoholic variation that everyone can enjoy.
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Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of rosemary or basil for an aromatic surprise that elevates your drink beyond the ordinary!
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Sweet & Spicy: Dash in a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg during preparation for a warm, spiced kick that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Sour Addition: For a zesty zing, add a few drops of fresh lime or lemon juice to the mix—this extra acidity will brighten the flavors beautifully.
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Savory Garnish: Swap out the mint for a slice of fresh ginger or a rosemary sprig to create a surprisingly delightful blend of flavors.
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Flavor Layers: Add a splash of flavored liqueur, like triple sec or peach schnapps, to add an extra layer of complexity and sweetness to your mimosa.
With these variations, your cranberry mimosa becomes not just a drink but a canvas for your creativity!
Tips for the Best Cranberry Mimosa
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Juice Ratio: Ensure the right balance between cranberry and pineapple orange juices—too much tartness can overpower the sweetness, so stick to the suggested proportions for a harmonious flavor.
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Sparkling Freshness: Always add the sparkling wine last to preserve that delightful fizz. Mixing it too early can lead to a flat drink instead of the effervescent cranberry mimosa you desire.
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Garnish Wisely: Use frozen cranberries not just for looks; they chill the drink without watering it down. Fresh mint and orange twists add aromatic interest, making presentation as delightful as taste.
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Wine Variety: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sparkling wines. Depending on your preference, dry options can provide a crisp finish, while sweeter varieties add a lively sweetness to your cranberry mimosa.
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Chill Time: Chill the juice mixture for at least an hour before serving. This ensures your drink is refreshing right from the start, enhancing the overall experience at your holiday gathering.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Mimosa
Best Enjoyed Fresh: Consume your cranberry mimosa immediately after preparation for the best flavor and effervescence—it’s most delightful when bubbly!
Refrigeration: If you have leftover juice mixture (not combined with sparkling wine), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frozen Ingredients: Frozen cranberries can be stored in the freezer for several months, making them a perfect garnish ready for any festive drink.
Do Not Freeze: Do not freeze the already mixed cranberry mimosa, as the sparkling wine will lose its fizz and alter the texture when thawed.
What to Serve with Cranberry Mimosa?
Sharing cheerful moments over a cranberry mimosa feels just right, especially when paired with delicious eats to elevate your brunch experience.
- Mini Quiches: These bite-sized wonders are savory and fluffy, making them a hearty addition that perfectly complements the tartness of your mimosa.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch and enhances the sweet notes of the pineapple juice.
- Cinnamon Roll Casserole: The warm, sweet cinnamon rolls create a delicious contrast to the crispness of sparkling wine, ensuring everyone goes back for seconds.
- Smoked Salmon Platter: Rich and smoky flavors from salmon provide an elegant touch that pairs beautifully with the effervescence of your cocktail.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocados spread on toasted bread offer a wonderful texture that balances the tartness of the drink while being utterly delightful.
Prepare to delight your guests as you curate a festive brunch spread that will leave everyone toasting and celebrating together!
Cranberry Mimosa Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberry juice should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the most authentic flavor in your cranberry mimosa, opt for 100% cranberry juice. Look for options labeled as “pure” or “natural,” avoiding juice cocktails that may contain added sugars and preservatives that can dull the tartness.
How long can I store the cranberry juice mixture?
Very! You can store any leftover juice mixture (without sparkling wine) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as the juices may separate over time.
Can I freeze leftover cranberry mimosa ingredients?
Of course! If you have leftover frozen cranberries, they can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. They’re perfect for garnishing future mimosas or adding to smoothies. However, do not freeze the already mixed cranberry mimosa; it will lose its fizz and change texture upon thawing.
What can I do if my mimosa loses its fizz?
If your mimosa seems flat, it’s often due to premature mixing of the juice and sparkling wine. For next time, always add the sparkling wine last, right before serving. If you need a quick fix, consider adding a splash of soda water to reinvigorate the bubbles; it’ll still taste great!
Are there any allergies I should consider with a cranberry mimosa?
Yes! Be cautious if you or your guests have allergies to citrus or specific fruits. The cranberry mimosa contains pineapple and orange juices, which can trigger allergies in some individuals. As an alternative, consider omitting these and creating a non-alcoholic version with flavored sparkling water for a festive yet safe drink.
Can I make a non-alcoholic cranberry mimosa?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the sparkling wine with a high-quality sparkling water or soda. You can still maintain the festive flair by following the same juice combination, and it’ll be a fun option for those who prefer to skip the alcohol!
Cranberry Mimosa Magic: Effortless Holiday Brunch Cheers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Juices: In a pitcher, mix 2 oz. of 100% cranberry juice with 1 oz. of pineapple orange juice. Stir well to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Chill Mixture: If you're preparing ahead, chill the juice mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to ensure it's refreshingly cool when served.
- Pour Sparkling Wine: When ready to serve, fill a champagne flute with 3 oz. of sparkling wine, tilting the glass slightly to preserve the bubbles.
- Add Juice Mixture: Carefully pour the chilled juice mixture into the flute over the sparkling wine. Stir gently to combine without losing that delightful fizz.
- Garnish Beautifully: Top your drink with a few frozen cranberries, an orange twist, and a sprig of fresh mint for an inviting and festive touch.