Sparkling Sugared Cranberry Christmas Mimosas: The Ultimate Festive Brunch Cocktail
There’s an undeniable magic that fills the air on Christmas morning, a sense of joy and anticipation that truly deserves to be celebrated with a touch of sparkle. This **sugared cranberry Christmas mimosa** is more than just a drink; it’s an easy-to-make cocktail that effortlessly dazzles, impresses, and sets the perfect festive tone for your holiday celebrations. Imagine clinking glasses, the gentle fizz of bubbles, and the sweet-tart burst of cranberry, all adorned with glistening sugared berries – it’s a beautiful toast to start a day filled with warmth, family, and cheer.
Who can resist the allure of a festive cocktail, especially during the colder months? While these beautiful mimosas are absolutely perfect for Christmas morning, their appeal extends far beyond a single holiday. Cranberries, with their vibrant color and distinctive tart flavor, are a beloved staple throughout the fall and winter seasons. Their rich, ruby-red hue brings an instant festive feeling to any gathering, making this drink an ideal choice for a variety of occasions. Consider serving them at your next Friendsgiving brunch, a cozy winter gathering, or perhaps as a vibrant toast with friends and family to ring in a happy and healthy new year. This recipe transforms a classic mimosa into an elegant, holiday-ready beverage that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to drink.
Why You Will Love This Sugared Cranberry Mimosa Recipe
Mimosas have long been a favorite for brunch and celebratory occasions, and for good reason: they are incredibly simple to prepare, typically requiring just two ingredients – champagne and orange juice. Our Christmas holiday twist takes this classic foundation and elevates it with the bright, seasonal flavor of cranberry juice. This substitution not only introduces a beautiful color but also a delightful tartness that perfectly complements the sparkling wine.
The core of this recipe remains delightfully straightforward: simply combine two liquids into a beautiful glass. However, what truly sets these cranberry mimosas apart and takes them to an entirely new level of elegance and festivity are the sugared cranberries. These glistening, sweet-tart berries provide a stunning garnish, adding both visual appeal and a delightful textural contrast that transforms a simple drink into a show-stopping holiday cocktail. The ease of preparation, combined with the impressive presentation and delicious flavor, makes this recipe an absolute winner for any holiday hostess. It’s proof that you don’t need complex techniques to create a truly memorable and luxurious drink.
Essential Ingredients for Your Festive Mimosa
Crafting the perfect sugared cranberry Christmas mimosa starts with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the balanced flavor and stunning presentation of this holiday cocktail. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to gather:
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: The bubbly base of any mimosa! The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You don’t need to splurge on the most expensive bottle, but do choose a champagne or sparkling wine that you genuinely enjoy drinking on its own. A Brut (dry) champagne is traditional for mimosas as it balances the sweetness of the juice, but an Extra Dry or even a Demi-Sec can work if you prefer a slightly sweeter drink or a less tart cranberry juice. For a more budget-friendly option, consider Prosecco, Cava, or a domestic sparkling wine; we’ll discuss these further in the substitutions section. Remember to chill your bottle thoroughly for the best experience.
- Cranberry Juice: This is the star flavor of our festive twist. For the absolute best and most authentic cranberry flavor, it is crucial to select a cranberry juice that is not made from concentrate. Juices made from concentrate often contain added sugars and artificial flavors that can detract from the natural brightness and tartness of the cranberries. Look for 100% cranberry juice or a blend that specifies “not from concentrate” and has minimal added ingredients. This ensures a clean, crisp, and robust cranberry taste that truly shines through.
- Fresh Cranberries: A non-negotiable for creating those beautiful sugared garnishes! Fresh cranberries are typically abundant during the holiday season, from late fall through winter. If you find them outside of this window, or simply want to stock up, they freeze exceptionally well. You don’t even need to thaw them before making the sugared cranberries; a quick rinse is all they need. Their firm texture is essential for holding the sugar coating and providing that delightful pop when bitten into.
- Granulated Sugar: Sugar serves a dual purpose in this recipe. Firstly, it’s used to create a simple syrup, which acts as the adhesive for the sugar coating on the cranberries. This syrup also infuses the cranberries with a layer of sweetness, balancing their natural tartness. Secondly, granulated white sugar is used for rolling the cranberries, creating that iconic “sparkle” and festive appearance. The fine crystals adhere beautifully to the syrupy berries, giving them their signature frosty look.
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card below. Always remember to taste and adjust the proportions to your personal preference – whether you like your mimosa more tart or sweeter, or with more or less sparkle!
Versatile Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about mimosas is their adaptability. Whether you’re looking to skip the alcohol, prefer a different type of bubbly, or want to add an extra layer of flavor, there are plenty of wonderful options to explore. This ensures that everyone can enjoy a festive drink tailored to their taste and dietary needs.
- Ginger Ale for a Non-Alcoholic Fizz: If you’re skipping the champagne or need a delightful option for younger guests, ginger ale is an excellent choice. Its inherent fizziness mimics the sparkle of champagne, and its warm, spicy notes pair incredibly well with the tartness of cranberries. The ginger adds a lovely depth that brightens the fruit flavor, creating a sophisticated and refreshing mocktail.
- Club Soda or Seltzer for a Lighter Touch: For a less sweet and alcohol-free alternative, club soda or plain seltzer works wonderfully. These unflavored sparkling waters provide the effervescence without adding extra sugar or flavor, allowing the pure taste of the cranberry juice (and the sweetness of the sugared cranberries) to take center stage. You can even add a squeeze of fresh lime or orange for an extra citrusy kick.
- Prosecco, Cava, Vino Verde, or Other Sparkling Wine: While champagne is the traditional choice, a variety of other sparkling wines can be used, often at a more affordable price point.
- Prosecco: Hailing from Italy, Prosecco is typically fruitier and less yeasty than champagne, with notes of green apple, pear, and citrus. Its slightly sweeter profile can be a fantastic match for tart cranberry juice.
- Cava: Spain’s answer to champagne, Cava is made using the traditional method, giving it a similar complexity to champagne but often with brighter, citrusy notes and a distinct minerality. It’s a superb, cost-effective alternative.
- Vino Verde: This Portuguese wine is known for its slight spritz and refreshing, light body. While not as bubbly as champagne or Prosecco, some varieties offer a pleasant effervescence that would complement the cranberry beautifully, especially if you prefer a less intense fizz.
- Other Sparkling Wines: Don’t hesitate to use your favorite local sparkling wine! Many regions produce excellent sparkling wines that can be perfect for mimosas. Just remember to choose a dry or semi-dry variety to avoid an overly sweet drink, unless that’s your preference.
- Skip the Bubbles for a Cranberry Punch: For a completely still, non-alcoholic option, simply serve chilled cranberry juice in a fancy glass, garnished with those spectacular sugared cranberries. While it won’t be a “mimosa,” it becomes an elegant cranberry punch or spritzer that is perfect for children, designated drivers, or anyone avoiding alcohol. It ensures that everyone, regardless of their drink choice, feels included in the festive celebrations. You can also combine it with still water or a little fruit juice for a customized flavor.
- Add a Splash of Citrus: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a small squeeze of fresh orange or lime juice to your mimosa. This brightens the cranberry and adds another dimension of taste.
- Herbal Infusions: A sprig of fresh rosemary or a thin slice of orange peel can add an aromatic complexity to your mimosa, enhancing its holiday appeal.
Experiment with these substitutions to find your perfect festive mimosa, ensuring it’s a delightful experience for all your guests!
Essential Equipment for Crafting Your Cranberry Mimosas
You don’t need a professional bar setup to create these stunning sugared cranberry Christmas mimosas. Just a few basic items will suffice to bring this elegant drink to life. The key is to have the right vessels for serving and the tools for that beautiful garnish.
Firstly, for serving, **champagne flutes** are the traditional and ideal choice. Their tall, slender shape not only looks elegant but also helps to preserve the champagne’s effervescence, keeping your mimosas sparkling for longer. If you don’t own champagne flutes, don’t worry! You can easily improvise with other glassware you might already have on hand. Tall glass tumblers or even wine glasses can work perfectly well. Many stores also offer affordable plastic champagne flutes, which are great for larger parties or outdoor gatherings where breakable glass might be a concern. The aim is to have a glass that makes the drink feel special.
Secondly, you will need something to thread your glorious sugared cranberries onto. **Toothpicks** are a readily available and perfectly functional option for this task. They are inexpensive and can be found in any grocery store. For a more polished look, consider investing in **metal cocktail picks**. These reusable picks add a touch of sophistication and can be washed and used for many future gatherings. Both options work equally well for creating those elegant cranberry skewers that perch beautifully atop your mimosa glasses, adding that essential visual flair.
Finally, to prepare your sugared cranberries, you’ll need a **small saucepan** for the simple syrup and a **baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil** for drying the berries. A **slotted spoon** will also be helpful for easily transferring the syrup-coated cranberries to the drying sheet. With these simple tools, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a truly memorable holiday beverage.
Storage Tips for Your Sugared Cranberries
While these sugared cranberry Christmas mimosas are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sugared cranberries ahead of time to make holiday entertaining even easier. Once coated and dried, you can store your sugared cranberries in a covered, airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. It’s important to keep them in a single layer or separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. They are truly at their peak sparkle and texture when made and served on the same day, but a little pre-prep can save you time on a busy Christmas morning. If storing, try to keep them away from excessive humidity, which can cause the sugar to melt and lose its crystalline appearance.
💡Top Tip for Maximum Flavor and Zero Waste
Don’t discard that flavorful simple syrup after coating your cranberries! This cranberry-infused syrup is a delightful byproduct of the sugaring process. Once the cranberries are removed from the saucepan, save the leftover syrup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a clean, airtight jar and store it in the refrigerator. It makes a fantastic addition to other cocktails, adding a sweet, tart, and subtle cranberry essence. You can also drizzle it over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or even mix it into sparkling water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage. It’s a wonderful way to extend the holiday flavors and reduce waste!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mimosas
The ideal ratio of champagne to juice in a mimosa is largely a matter of personal preference, and there’s no single “right” answer. However, a good starting point for a well-balanced mimosa is to fill your flutes approximately ⅔ to halfway with champagne, then top off the remainder of the glass with your cranberry juice. This usually provides a pleasant balance where the fruit flavor is present but not overpowering, and the champagne’s bubbles and taste still shine. For a stronger drink, lean towards ⅔ champagne; for a lighter, fruitier mimosa, opt for a half-and-half ratio. Feel free to adjust to your liking after your first sip!
Planning mimosas for a larger group requires a little math, but it’s quite straightforward. A standard bottle of champagne or sparkling wine (which typically contains 750ml) will generally yield about 6 to 8 mimosas. This number can vary depending on a few factors: the size of your champagne flutes, and more importantly, the ratio of juice to alcohol that you choose to use. If you’re using smaller flutes or a higher juice-to-champagne ratio, you might get closer to 8 mimosas per bottle. If you’re pouring larger drinks or a champagne-heavy mix, it might be closer to 6. For a party, it’s always a good idea to overestimate slightly, especially during the holidays, so you don’t run out of bubbly!
Mimosas are best served fresh, right before drinking, to maintain their effervescence. Mixing the champagne and juice too far in advance will cause the bubbles to dissipate, resulting in a flat drink. However, you can definitely prep your ingredients! Chill your champagne and cranberry juice thoroughly, prepare your sugared cranberries, and have your flutes ready. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the champagne and top with juice and garnish. This ensures the freshest and most sparkling mimosa experience.
While sugared cranberries are incredibly beautiful and delicious, you can also consider other garnishes. A fresh sprig of rosemary adds a lovely aromatic touch and a festive green color. A twist of orange peel or a thin orange slice can also complement the cranberry flavor beautifully. For an extra pop, you could add a few whole fresh cranberries (unsugared) to the bottom of the glass before pouring the liquids.
More Delicious Christmas Recipes to Explore
Ho ho ho! The holiday season is a time for indulgence and delicious treats. If you’re looking for more festive inspiration beyond this sparkling mimosa, we’ve got you covered with an array of delightful Christmas recipes. From comforting desserts to cozy breakfast staples, these dishes are sure to bring joy to your holiday table. Explore these fantastic options to round out your seasonal menu and delight your loved ones.
- Christmas Eggnog Ice Cream
- Italian Bread Pudding with Panettone
- Cranberry Gingerbread Loaf
- Easy Spiced Eggnog Waffles
Did you make this dazzling Sugared Cranberry Christmas Mimosa recipe? We would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card, sharing your thoughts and any tips. If you capture a photo of your beautiful creation, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @brunchandbatter. Your feedback and photos truly make our day and help others discover and enjoy this festive drink!
📖Recipe
Sugared Cranberry Christmas Mimosa
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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cocktail picks or toothpicks
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champagne flutes or tall glass tumblers
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small saucepan
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baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 750 ml bottle chilled champagne, Prosecco, or your favorite sparkling wine
- 2 cups (16 ounces) chilled cranberry juice not from concentrate, for best flavor
- 1 cup (8 ounces) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup (8 ounces) white granulated sugar, divided
Instructions
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For the best refreshment, ensure your cranberry juice and champagne are thoroughly chilled for at least 4 hours in advance.
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To prepare the simple syrup for your sugared cranberries, combine ½ cup of water and ½ cup of the granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and gently simmer for approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the syrup is clear.1 cup (8 ounces) white granulated sugar, divided
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Reduce the heat to low. Carefully add the fresh cranberries to the warm syrup and stir gently to ensure they are fully coated. Let the cranberries stand in the syrup for 1-2 minutes, allowing the syrup to properly adhere. Using a slotted spoon, remove the coated cranberries and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Allow them to dry for about 50-60 minutes; it’s crucial they don’t touch each other during this drying process to prevent sticking.1 cup (8 ounces) fresh cranberries
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Once the cranberries have dried (they will still feel slightly sticky), gently toss them in the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar until thoroughly coated and glistening. Separate any berries that are sticking together. Begin to thread 3-4 sugared cranberries onto each toothpick or cocktail pick, depending on their size and your desired presentation. Set these beautiful garnishes aside.1 cup (8 ounces) white granulated sugar, divided
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To assemble your mimosas, fill each champagne flute halfway or ⅔ full with your chilled sparkling wine. Then, carefully top off the rest of the glass with the chilled cranberry juice. For a touch of extra festive flair, you can also drop a few plain fresh cranberries to the bottom of the glass before pouring the champagne. Finally, garnish each mimosa by carefully resting a skewer of sugared cranberries over the rim of the glass. Serve immediately and enjoy! Cheers to a sparkling holiday!1 750 ml bottle champagne, or sparkling wine such as Prosecco, 2 cups (16 ounces) cranberry juice
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.