There’s something about the Poinsettia cocktail that just feels like a celebration. With its sparkling bubbles, bright cranberry hue, and citrusy twist, it’s the kind of drink that instantly sets the mood-whether you’re toasting the holidays, hosting brunch, or simply winding down with friends. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy, elegant, and just a little bit fancy without being fussy.
Poinsettia
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 (scale as needed for a crowd)
Glass: Champagne flute or white wine glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) cranberry juice (100% juice if possible)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
– 3 oz (90 ml) chilled champagne or sparkling wine
– Optional garnish: fresh cranberries, orange peel twist, or a small rosemary sprig
Method
- Start with a chilled glass. Either pop your flute in the freezer for 10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prep.
- Pour the cranberry juice into the glass first. This helps prevent the bubbly from foaming too much.
- Add the orange liqueur.
- Top gently with the champagne. Tilt the glass slightly and pour slowly down the side to keep the bubbles lively but under control.
- Give it a gentle stir-just enough to mix, but not so much you lose the fizz.
- Add a festive garnish if you like. A few floating cranberries or a twist of orange peel look beautiful and add a little extra something.
Make-Ahead Tip
Mix the cranberry juice and orange liqueur up to a day in advance and keep it chilled. When you’re ready to serve, just top each glass with champagne. This is a lifesaver when entertaining!
Storage
Since this cocktail is built with sparkling wine, it’s best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers don’t keep well because the bubbles go flat. But you can store the pre-mixed juice and liqueur combo in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Helpful Tips
– Keep everything cold. Cold ingredients help preserve the fizz and keep your cocktail refreshing.
– Use dry champagne or Prosecco. The cranberry juice adds sweetness, so a brut (dry) bubbly balances it out.
– Don’t over-stir. A quick swirl is enough-too much mixing knocks out the bubbles.
– No orange liqueur? A splash of orange juice works in a pinch, though it’s a little less punchy.
Flavor Profile
The Poinsettia is crisp, lightly sweet, and a little tart. The cranberry juice brings that signature tang, while the orange liqueur adds brightness. Champagne ties it all together with a celebratory sparkle. It smells fresh, feels festive, and goes down easy.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
Appetizers
– Goat cheese crostini
– Shrimp cocktail
– Smoked salmon bites
Salads
– Arugula with citrus vinaigrette
– Mixed greens with cranberries and walnuts
Main Dishes
– Roast turkey or chicken
– Baked ham with a brown sugar glaze
– Quiche or savory tarts for brunch
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner pairings too-this cocktail with a few white chocolate truffles? Pure holiday magic.
Variations
Want to mix it up? Here are some fun twists on the classic:
Rosé Poinsettia
– Use sparkling rosé instead of champagne for a blush-pink version with a touch more fruitiness.
Peach Poinsettia
– Swap the orange liqueur for peach schnapps. It’s sweet, juicy, and perfect for summer brunches.
Elderflower Poinsettia
– Try elderflower liqueur in place of orange liqueur. It adds a delicate floral note that’s lovely and unexpected.
Virgin Poinsettia (Non-Alcoholic)
– Replace champagne with sparkling white grape juice.
– Use a splash of orange juice instead of liqueur.
– Still festive, still delicious-great for kids or anyone skipping alcohol.
Common Questions
Can I use Prosecco instead of champagne?
Yes! Prosecco is a little sweeter, which works nicely if you like a fruitier drink.
What if I don’t have orange liqueur?
No problem-use orange juice, or try a splash of Grand Marnier if you have it on hand.
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely. Mix the cranberry juice and orange liqueur in a pitcher. When guests arrive, pour into glasses and top with chilled champagne individually to keep the fizz.
How do I garnish it?
Try a few fresh cranberries, a curled orange peel, or even a rosemary sprig for a wintery vibe. For extra flair, dip the rim in sugar before pouring.
What kind of cranberry juice is best?
Go for 100% cranberry juice if you like it tart, or use a cranberry cocktail blend if you prefer it a bit sweeter.
Try It With These Dishes
– Cheese boards with brie, sharp cheddar, and dried fruits
– Savory pastries or mini quiches
– Light desserts like lemon bars or cranberry-orange scones
Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want to make an ordinary evening feel special, a Poinsettia cocktail is the perfect pour. It’s festive, simple to make, and always a hit. Cheers to that!
