Cranberry Mimosa: A Festive Sparkling Delight
The Cranberry Mimosa is a festive and vibrant cocktail that brings a tart and sweet twist to the classic brunch favorite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or celebratory mornings, this sparkling drink pairs the crisp effervescence of champagne with the bold, tangy flavor of cranberry juice. It’s an elegant and simple cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, featuring a striking ruby-red hue that’s ideal for toasting any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, celebrating New Year’s Eve, or simply enjoying a quiet morning, the Cranberry Mimosa adds a touch of sophistication and seasonal cheer to the table. The touch of citrus from fresh orange juice and the subtle garnish of sugared cranberries or a sprig of rosemary take this cocktail to the next level.
Quick Facts for Cranberry Mimosa
- Method: built
- Flavor profile: crisp, tart, slightly sweet
- How to serve it: chilled
- Glassware: champagne flute
- Alcohol content: ~8% ABV
Ingredients
- 2 oz cranberry juice – Use 100% cranberry juice for a bold and tart flavor, or opt for cranberry cocktail for a sweeter taste.
- 2 oz orange juice – Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a bright and refreshing citrus note.
- 4 oz champagne or prosecco – Choose a dry variety to balance the tartness and sweetness of the juices.
- Sugared cranberries or rosemary sprig – Optional garnishes for a festive touch.
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the champagne with sparkling water, ginger ale, or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
Equipment Needed
- Champagne flute – The classic choice for serving mimosas, as it enhances the presentation and helps retain the drink’s bubbles.
- Jigger or measuring tool – Ensures precise measurements for consistent flavor.
- Citrus press – If you’re using fresh oranges, a press makes juicing quick and easy.
A chilled mixing pitcher can also be handy if you’re preparing multiple mimosas at once.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chill the ingredients: Ensure the champagne, cranberry juice, and orange juice are thoroughly chilled before beginning. This keeps the cocktail refreshing without needing ice, which can dilute the flavors.
- Prepare the garnishes (optional): Coat cranberries in simple syrup, then roll them in sugar to create a frosted effect. Set aside to dry. Alternatively, rinse a sprig of rosemary and set it aside.
- Pour the juices: Add 2 ounces of cranberry juice and 2 ounces of orange juice into a chilled champagne flute.
- Top with champagne: Slowly pour 4 ounces of champagne or prosecco into the flute to fill it. Be careful not to overfill, as the bubbles may cause it to overflow.
- Garnish and serve: Top with a few sugared cranberries, a rosemary sprig, or a twist of orange peel for an elegant presentation. Serve immediately.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
The Cranberry Mimosa delivers a crisp and tangy burst of flavor from the cranberry juice, balanced by the sweetness of orange juice and the dry, bubbly finish of champagne. The interplay of tart and sweet creates a refreshing and invigorating taste that’s perfect for celebratory mornings or festive afternoons.
This cocktail pairs beautifully with a variety of brunch favorites. Try it with:
- Fluffy pancakes topped with cranberry compote.
- A savory quiche with spinach and feta.
- Cranberry-orange scones or croissants.
The effervescence of the champagne cleanses the palate, making it an ideal accompaniment for rich and indulgent dishes.
Garnishing and Presentation
For a show-stopping presentation, sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs are the go-to garnishes. The frosted cranberries add a sparkling touch that echoes the bubbles in the champagne, while the rosemary offers an aromatic hint of winter. For a simpler garnish, a thin orange slice or a twist of peel draped over the rim adds a bright citrus flair.
For extra flair, consider lightly dipping the rim of the champagne flute in cranberry juice and then into sugar to create a festive, frosted rim. This subtle detail enhances the cocktail’s elegance and makes it even more photogenic.
Pairing Suggestions
The Cranberry Mimosa’s crisp and tangy flavors complement both sweet and savory dishes. Some pairing ideas include:
- Sweet options: Cranberry muffins, lemon ricotta pancakes, or chocolate croissants.
- Savory options: Smoked salmon bagels, eggs Benedict, or roasted turkey sliders with cranberry sauce.
- Cheese platters: Brie with cranberry jam or sharp cheddar with dried fruits.
These pairings enhance the cocktail’s tartness while balancing its sweetness, making every bite and sip more enjoyable.
Cocktail History and Trivia
The mimosa is a classic cocktail that originated in the 1920s, with its invention often credited to the Ritz Hotel in Paris. Traditionally made with equal parts orange juice and champagne, it quickly became a brunch staple for its light and refreshing qualities. The Cranberry Mimosa is a modern twist, embracing the seasonal flavors of cranberry to bring a festive touch to this timeless drink.
The addition of cranberry juice is thought to have been inspired by its strong association with winter holidays in the United States, where cranberries are a key ingredient in festive dishes and drinks. This seasonal adaptation has made the Cranberry Mimosa a favorite during Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry Mimosas are best served chilled and freshly poured to maintain their effervescence. They’re ideal for brunch spreads, holiday parties, or even as a pre-dinner aperitif during festive gatherings.
To serve for a crowd, prepare the juices in a large pitcher, keeping the champagne separate. Guests can pour their own mimosas by adding the champagne to the juice mixture in their glasses. Alternatively, set up a mimosa bar with a variety of juices and garnishes to let guests customize their drinks.
Alcohol Content and Alternatives
The Cranberry Mimosa is a light cocktail, with an ABV of approximately 8%, depending on the champagne used. For a milder version, reduce the champagne slightly and increase the juice ratio.
To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the champagne with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine. The drink retains its crisp and refreshing qualities, making it a hit with guests of all ages or those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use cranberry cocktail instead of pure cranberry juice?
Yes, cranberry cocktail works well, but it will make the drink sweeter. Adjust the orange juice or garnish with citrus to balance the flavors.
What’s the best champagne to use?
A dry (brut) champagne or prosecco is ideal. Avoid sweeter varieties like demi-sec, which can make the drink overly sweet.
Can I prepare Cranberry Mimosas in advance?
While the juices can be mixed ahead of time, the champagne should be added just before serving to preserve its bubbles.
Cranberry Mimosa Recipe
Ingredients
2 oz cranberry juice
2 oz orange juice
4 oz champagne or prosecco
Optional garnishes: sugared cranberries, rosemary sprig, orange peel
Directions
- Chill all ingredients thoroughly.
- Combine cranberry juice and orange juice in a champagne flute.
- Top with champagne.
- Garnish as desired and serve immediately.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Mimosa is a simple yet elegant cocktail that’s perfect for any celebration. Its bold, festive flavors and sparkling presentation make it a standout addition to brunch spreads, holiday parties, and beyond. Whether you enjoy it as a morning toast or an afternoon pick-me-up, this cocktail is sure to add a little sparkle to your day.
