This Cranberry Christmas Mimosa adds a festive twist to your gatherings! With sparkling wine and zesty cranberry juice, it’s bubbly and bright, perfect for toasting the holiday season.
Every sip feels like a celebration! I love serving these with brunch; they make everything feel more special. Plus, who doesn’t love a drink that twinkles like Christmas lights? 🎄✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: Fresh cranberry juice is the best choice for tart flavor. If you can’t find it, use a high-quality bottled version. Just avoid the overly sweet ones! I often mix a little lemon juice to enhance the tartness.
Sparkling Wine/Champagne: Use your favorite sparkling wine—Prosecco, Cava, or even a nice dry Champagne works well! If you want a non-alcoholic version, substitute sparkling cider or flavored sparkling water.
Garnish: Fresh cranberries add a festive touch and look lovely! Feel free to swap in pomegranate seeds for a similar look, or use rosemary for an aromatic profile. An orange twist adds a nice citrus note!
How Do I Rim Glasses with Sugar Perfectly?
Rimming the glasses with sugar not only makes your drink look beautiful, but it also adds a sweet first sip! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Moisten the rim using cranberry juice or plain water.
- Dip the rim into a shallow plate filled with sugar. Just twist the glass gently as you dip.
- Ensure it’s well-coated for a delightful sweetness with each sip!
Taking this extra step makes the presentation feel special, and it’s super simple! Enjoy making these festive mimosas for your holiday gatherings.
Cranberry Christmas Mimosa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz cranberry juice (preferably tart and fresh)
- 4 oz sparkling wine or champagne, chilled
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Optional: a small sprig of rosemary or a twist of orange peel for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Christmas mimosa will take about 10 minutes to prepare. Gathering all your ingredients and chilling the sparkling wine will ensure a refreshing drink, perfect for maybe a holiday brunch or a cheerful evening toast with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill the Sparkling Wine:
Start by placing your sparkling wine or champagne in the refrigerator for a bit to chill. This makes the drink extra refreshing!
2. Rim the Glasses:
Next, let’s make those glasses look fancy! Moisten the rim of each glass with a little cranberry juice or water. Then, dip the wet rim into a small plate of sugar to coat it evenly. This adds a sweet touch that’s lovely with each sip!
3. Pour the Cranberry Juice:
Pour about 3 ounces of cranberry juice into each prepared glass. You can use a measuring cup or just eyeball it for a casual approach!
4. Add Bubbles:
Now, slowly top off each glass with about 4 ounces of the chilled sparkling wine. Pour gently to keep the fizz intact and prevent too much bubbling over.
5. Garnish for Festivity:
Take a few fresh cranberries and skewer them onto a cocktail pick, then gently rest it over the rim of the glass for a pretty garnish. If you’d like to get extra fancy, add a sprig of rosemary or a twist of orange peel on top!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cranberry Christmas Mimosas immediately to enjoy while they’re cold and bubbly. Cheers to a festive holiday season filled with joy and celebration!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Juice?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry juice works well, but opt for a tart variety with no added sugars for the best flavor. Look for 100% cranberry juice if possible for a more authentic taste!
Can I Make These Mimosas Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! Simply substitute the sparkling wine with sparkling cider or flavored sparkling water for a festive mocktail that everyone can enjoy. You’ll still get that bubbly sensation without the alcohol!
How Do I Store Leftover Mimosas?
It’s best to serve these mimosas fresh, but if you have leftover cranberry juice or garnishes, store them separately in the refrigerator. Don’t mix the drink ahead of time, as the sparkling wine will lose its fizz.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep by chilling the sparkling wine and preparing the garnishes ahead of time. However, I recommend assembling and pouring the drinks just before serving to ensure they’re bubbly and fresh!