Easy Cranberry Mimosa Recipe for a Refreshing Holiday Boost

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something undeniably festive about a glass of bubbly topped with a splash of tart cranberry juice. One chilly morning, craving a little sparkle that felt both cozy and celebratory, I whipped up this Cranberry Mimosa that instantly brightened my mood. It’s the perfect blend of crisp champagne and vibrant cranberry flavor—easy enough for a casual brunch, yet fancy enough to impress guests. Whether you’re tired of the same old cocktails or just want to add a pop of color to your weekend gathering, this refreshing twist on a classic mimosa will quickly become your go-to. Let me show you how simple it is to bring a touch of holiday cheer to your glass any time of year.

Why choose a Cranberry Mimosa?

Bright and Festive: This recipe combines crisp champagne with tangy cranberry juice for an irresistible holiday sparkle. Effortlessly Elegant: Just two ingredients and you’re ready to impress at any brunch or gathering. Versatile Splash: Perfect for celebrations or casual sipping, it adds a refreshing twist to your usual cocktails. Quick to Make: No complicated steps—just pour, mix, and enjoy the uplifting burst of flavor!

Easy Cranberry Mimosa Ingredients

For the Drink

Champagne or Sparkling Wine – Choose a dry variety for the perfect bubbly balance.
Cranberry Juice – Opt for 100% juice to keep the vibrant, tart flavor true to a Cranberry Mimosa.
Fresh Cranberries – Use as a festive garnish to add a pop of holiday color.
Orange Juice (optional) – A splash provides a subtle sweetness and brightens the drink’s complexity.

How to Make Cranberry Mimosa

Chill Flutes: Place champagne flutes in the fridge for 10 minutes to ensure a frosty presentation and lively bubbles when you pour the cocktail.
Pour Champagne: Tilt each chilled flute at 45°, then slowly pour 3 ounces of cold, dry champagne, filling the glass about two-thirds full to prevent overflow.
Add Cranberry Juice: Add 1 ounce of vibrant cranberry juice, letting its ruby swirl dance through the bubbles, creating a festive color contrast and tart flavor pop.
Garnish Elegantly: Thread three fresh cranberries onto a small skewer or cocktail pick, then balance it across the flute’s rim for a cheerful, holiday-ready finish.

Optional: Add a splash of fresh orange juice for subtle sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Mimosas are perfect for busy hosts looking to save time while still impressing their guests! You can prep the cranberry juice and garnishes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply pour the cranberry juice into an airtight container and refrigerate it to keep its vibrant flavor intact. When the celebration kicks off, take your chilled champagne flutes from the fridge, pour in 3 ounces of cold champagne, followed by 1 ounce of the prepared cranberry juice, and finish with the fresh cranberries for a festive touch. With this make-ahead approach, your Cranberry Mimosas will be just as delightful, allowing you to relax and enjoy the festivities!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Mimosa

Use Dry Champagne: Choose a dry champagne or sparkling wine to balance the tartness of cranberry juice without making the drink overly sweet.
Chill Everything: Keep both the champagne and cranberry juice well chilled to preserve the bubbles and refreshingly crisp flavor in your Cranberry Mimosa.
Pour Slowly: Tilt the glass when pouring champagne to avoid excess foam and spillage, ensuring a vibrant, fizzy drink every time.
Garnish Creatively: Fresh cranberries on a skewer add festive flair, but consider adding a sprig of rosemary for an extra holiday touch.
Avoid Overpouring Juice: Too much cranberry juice can overwhelm the bubbles and sweetness; stick to 1 ounce for the perfect balance.

Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Mimosa

Feel free to put your own spin on this festive drink with these fun and delicious ideas!

Sparkling Water: Replace champagne with sparkling water for a lighter, non-alcoholic option that’s equally refreshing.
Different Juices: Swap cranberry for pomegranate or grapefruit juice for a unique flavor twist that adds a vibrant hue to your glass.
Herbal Infusion: Add a splash of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, to deepen the flavor and provide a soothing element to your mimosa.
Fruit Garnish Variations: Instead of fresh cranberries, try using thinly sliced oranges or lemon wheels for a bright and zesty garnish.
Spiked Option: Add a splash of flavored vodka, such as vanilla or citrus, for an extra kick that enhances the cocktail experience.
Seasonal Twists: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg during the holiday season for a spiced twist that warms the soul.
Fruity Purees: Blend fresh or frozen fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, and use them as a base before adding champagne for a berry bliss.
Lemonade Boost: Mix in a touch of lemonade for a tart-sweet balance that brightens the overall taste and makes every sip even more enjoyable.

What to Serve with Cranberry Mimosa?

Pairing a festive drink like Cranberry Mimosa with delightful bites elevates any gathering to true celebration status.

Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of aged cheeses pairs wonderfully, balancing the drink’s tartness while offering creamy textures. Choose a mix of sharp cheddar and brie for an unbeatable combination.
Mini Quiches: These delightful, flaky pastries with various fillings add a savory touch, complementing the bright cranberry notes in your drink. They’re bite-sized and perfect for brunch!
Fruit Skewers: Bright, colorful fruit skewers enhance the drink’s freshness. Opt for strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple to match the vibrant aesthetic of the Cranberry Mimosa.
Smoked Salmon Bites: Rich and smoky, these bites on crisp bread create a lovely contrast to the drink’s tartness. Serve them with a dollop of cream cheese for an elegant touch.
Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Adding a touch of sweetness, these freshly baked muffins are a cozy complement to your bubbly. Their soft texture and warm spices create a comforting vibe for any brunch.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon or lime wedges. It cleanses the palate while maintaining the festive atmosphere.

A thoughtful pairing can elevate your Citrus Mimosa experience, making memories that linger well beyond the last bubbly sip!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Mimosa

Fridge: Store any leftover Cranberry Mimosa in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container; however, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal fizz.

Freezer: Freezing isn’t recommended for Cranberry Mimosas, as the carbonation will be lost upon thawing, leading to a flat drink. Instead, prepare fresh batches as needed.

Reheating: If you happen to have excess cranberry juice, store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Avoid reheating, as it’s best served cold for a refreshing taste.

Easy Cranberry Mimosa Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cranberry juice for my Cranberry Mimosa?
I recommend using 100% pure cranberry juice with no added sugars or blends. Look for a bright, deep red color and a tart flavor—it gives your mimosa that perfect festive zing and balances beautifully with dry champagne.

Can I prepare Cranberry Mimosas in advance and store them?
Absolutely! While these mimosas are best fresh for bubbly texture, you can mix the cranberry juice and champagne separately and chill them for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Combine just before serving to preserve the fizz and vibrant taste.

Is it okay to freeze leftover Cranberry Mimosas?
Freezing isn’t ideal here because sparkling wine loses its carbonation once thawed, turning your delightful bubbly into a flat drink. Instead, freeze leftover cranberry juice separately if needed, and always use fresh champagne when ready to serve.

What should I do if my mimosa tastes too tart or too sweet?
No worries! If it’s too tart, add a splash of fresh orange juice or a bit more champagne to mellow it out. If it’s too sweet, use a drier sparkling wine or reduce the cranberry juice slightly. Remember, balance is key: I often tweak ratios just a bit to suit my taste or the occasion.

Are Cranberry Mimosas safe for guests with dietary restrictions or pets at home?
For guests, this cocktail is gluten-free and contains no added allergens unless you add extras—always double-check your champagne’s label. And definitely keep mimosas away from pets; alcohol and cranberry juice in large amounts can be harmful. Stick to serving your furry friends fresh water and pet-safe treats during your gathering!