A Cranberry Mimosa is the perfect mix of tart, bubbly, and refreshing—just the thing for brunch, holiday gatherings, or a simple weekend treat. With cranberry juice bringing a festive touch and champagne adding that signature sparkle, this drink is both elegant and easy to make.
Cranberry Mimosa
I’ve made this countless times for holiday brunches, and it never fails to impress. Let’s go over everything you need to know to make the best Cranberry Mimosa, plus a few fun variations to try!
Ingredients
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 2 oz (60ml) cranberry juice – Use 100% cranberry juice for a more tart, natural flavor.
- 4 oz (120ml) champagne – A dry champagne or prosecco works best.
- 0.5 oz (15ml) orange liqueur (optional) – Adds a hint of citrus sweetness.
- Fresh cranberries – For garnish.
Glassware: A champagne flute helps preserve the bubbles, but a wine glass works in a pinch.
How to Make a Cranberry Mimosa
- Pour 2 oz (60ml) of cranberry juice into a chilled champagne flute.
- Add 0.5 oz (15ml) of orange liqueur if using.
- Slowly top with 4 oz (120ml) of champagne to keep the bubbles intact.
- Garnish with a few fresh cranberries for a festive touch.
Tip: Always chill your champagne and juice before making this drink—it makes a huge difference in keeping it crisp and refreshing!
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Best served fresh: Mimosas are all about the bubbles, so mix them just before serving.
- Batch option: If making for a crowd, mix the juice and liqueur in a pitcher ahead of time. Add champagne to each glass right before serving.
- Non-alcoholic version: Swap the champagne for sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
Food Pairings
This bright, bubbly drink pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Brunch Favorites
- Eggs Benedict
- Avocado toast
- Fluffy pancakes
Cheese Board Companions
The crisp acidity of champagne balances rich cheeses like:
- Brie
- Aged cheddar
- Goat cheese
Holiday Pairings
The cranberry flavor makes this a perfect match for:
- Roasted turkey
- Cranberry sauce
- Savory stuffing
I love serving these at Thanksgiving—it’s a simple way to add a little extra sparkle to the meal!
Customizing Your Cranberry Mimosa
Want to switch things up? Here are a few easy tweaks:
- Swap the bubbles: Use prosecco instead of champagne for a slightly sweeter taste.
- Skip the liqueur: Leave out the orange liqueur for a simpler, more tart version.
- Try a different garnish: A twist of orange peel adds a citrusy aroma.
Fun Variations
Christmas Mimosa
- Ingredients: Cranberry juice, champagne, rosemary sprig
- How to make it: Follow the original recipe, then garnish with a rosemary sprig for a festive touch.
Sunrise Mimosa
- Ingredients: Cranberry juice, champagne, orange juice
- How to make it: Layer cranberry juice and orange juice before topping with champagne for a beautiful ombré effect.
Berry Mimosa
- Ingredients: Cranberry juice, champagne, mixed berry purée
- How to make it: Stir berry purée into the cranberry juice before adding champagne for extra fruitiness.
Helpful Tips
- Always use chilled champagne – Warm champagne makes the drink go flat faster.
- Pour slowly – This keeps the bubbles from overflowing.
- Use fresh cranberry juice – It tastes better and isn’t overly sweet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use prosecco instead of champagne?
Absolutely! Prosecco is often a more budget-friendly choice and slightly sweeter.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use unsweetened cranberry juice or add a splash of club soda.
What’s the best garnish?
Fresh cranberries or an orange twist both work beautifully.
Can I make these ahead of time?
It’s best to mix them fresh to keep the bubbles lively.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Yes! Just swap the champagne for sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
Cranberry Mimosas are a simple yet elegant way to brighten up any brunch or holiday gathering. Play around with different variations and find your favorite! Cheers!
