This fun Cranberry Christmas Mimosa is a festive drink that mixes sparkling wine with tart cranberry juice. It’s bubbly, bright, and perfect for holiday cheer!
Every sip feels like a celebration! I like to garnish mine with fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint. It’s a great way to spread some holiday joy with friends. Cheers! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice gives the best tart flavor, but you can use light cranberry juice if you prefer something a bit sweeter. If you’re watching sugar intake, look for no-sugar-added varieties.
Sparking Wine/Champagne: A dry sparkling wine pairs well with the tartness of the cranberry. Prosecco is a great alternative if Champagne is too pricey. If you want a non-alcoholic version, club soda or sparkling grape juice works wonderfully!
Granulated Sugar: The sugar rim adds a lovely touch, but if you prefer something different, try using flavored sugar or a mix of sugar and cinnamon for a holiday twist!
Garnish: Fresh cranberries are festive, but you could use pomegranate seeds for a fun twist or even orange slices for a pop of color and added flavor!
How Do I Get Perfectly Rimed Glasses?
Rimming your glasses adds a special touch to the mimosas! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by choosing your rimming ingredient, like granulated sugar or a mix of sugar and spice.
- Pour a small amount of water or cranberry juice onto a plate.
- Dip the rim of each glass into the liquid, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Next, dip the rim into the sugar, rolling it gently to coat the entire edge.
- Let the glasses sit for a moment to allow the sugar to set before pouring in your cranberry juice and sparkling wine.
This simple technique enhances the drink’s presentation and adds extra sweetness with every sip! Enjoy your festive mimosas!
How to Make a Cranberry Christmas Mimosa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 bottle (750 ml) chilled sparkling wine or Champagne
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Granulated sugar, for rimming the glasses
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier) or fresh orange juice for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful drink is quick and easy to make! You will need about 10 minutes of preparation time. Just a few simple steps, and you’ll be sipping on a festive mimosa in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glasses:
Start by rimming your glasses to make them extra special. Pour some granulated sugar onto a small plate. Then, lightly wet the rims of your Champagne flutes with water or a little cranberry juice. Dip the rims into the sugar until they’re evenly coated. Set the glasses aside for now.
2. Pour the Cranberry Juice:
Now, it’s time to fill your glasses! Pour cranberry juice into each glass, filling them about one-third full. This bright color will set a festive tone!
3. Add the Sparkling Wine:
Next, gently top each glass with your chilled sparkling wine or Champagne. Pour slowly to maintain the bubbles and avoid too much fizz spilling over.
4. Enhance the Flavor:
If you want to add a twist, mix in a splash of orange liqueur or fresh orange juice—about 1 tablespoon should do. This adds a lovely citrus note to your drink!
5. Garnish with Fresh Cranberries:
Add a few fresh cranberries on top for a charming finish. They not only look great but also add a festive touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the mimosas immediately while they’re fresh and bubbly. Enjoy toasting the holiday season with friends and loved ones!
This vibrant, bubbly cocktail combines the tartness of cranberry with the crispness of sparkling wine, making it a delightful drink to celebrate the holiday spirit!
Can I Use Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine for This Mimosa?
Absolutely! Non-alcoholic sparkling wine or even sparkling grape juice works beautifully. It will still give you that festive fizz without the alcohol, making it perfect for all your guests!
How Do I Store Leftover Mimosas?
It’s best to serve mimosas fresh, but if you have leftovers, preserve them in the fridge for a short time. Just keep in mind that the bubbles will go flat, so consume them within a few hours for the best experience!
Can I Make These Mimosas in Larger Batches?
Yes! To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Mix the cranberry juice and orange liqueur together in a pitcher, and pour the sparkling wine into each glass just before serving to maintain the fizz.
What If I Don’t Like Cranberry Juice?
No worries! You can easily substitute cranberry juice with pomegranate juice or even orange juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that sweetness and tartness levels may vary, so adjust as needed!
