If you’re looking to add sparkle and seasonal flavor to your holiday mornings, this Cranberry Orange Mimosa is the drink that delivers. A vibrant twist on the traditional mimosa, this cocktail pairs the tangy brightness of fresh orange juice with the tart-sweet depth of homemade cranberry simple syrup—topped off with bubbly champagne or prosecco. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas brunch, a winter bridal shower, or a cozy New Year’s morning with friends, this festive drink brings cheer to every toast. And if you love exploring seasonal sips, don’t miss our Cranberry Orange Muffins Recipe—they pair perfectly with this cocktail!
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Why Cranberry Orange Mimosas Are the Ultimate Holiday Drink
A seasonal twist on a classic
Mimosas have always been a brunch staple, but adding cranberry to the mix gives them a bold seasonal upgrade. The cranberry syrup brings a hint of tartness and sweetness that balances the citrusy orange juice beautifully. This twist doesn’t just taste amazing—it makes the drink feel tailored for winter holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day.
The visual appeal: Sunrise in a glass
One of the standout features of a cranberry orange mimosa is its color. The blend of ruby red syrup and golden orange juice creates a layered look reminiscent of a winter sunrise. When served in a champagne flute and garnished with cranberries and orange slices, it instantly elevates your table’s aesthetic.
Ideal for brunch, parties, and celebrations
From holiday mornings to bridal showers and Sunday brunches, this cocktail fits the bill. It’s easy to batch for a crowd and always garners compliments. Looking for inspiration? Try our Dreamy Cotton Candy Fudge Recipe to serve alongside for a sweet finish.
Ingredients Needed for the Best Cranberry Orange Mimosa
Fresh-squeezed orange juice vs bottled
When it comes to juice, fresh is best. Fresh-squeezed orange juice brings a vibrant citrus note and natural sweetness that bottled juice simply can’t match. However, if you’re in a pinch, opt for a high-quality bottled juice without added sugar or pulp.
Making your own cranberry simple syrup
The heart of this mimosa lies in the cranberry syrup. To make it, simmer 1 ¼ cups of fresh or frozen cranberries with ½ cup sugar and ½ cup water until the berries burst. Then, strain the mixture for a smooth, vibrant syrup. You can chill it ahead of time—it keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cranberries (fresh or frozen) | 1 ¼ cups |
| Sugar | ½ cup |
| Water | ½ cup |
Discover great ideas like our Cranberry Eggnog Bread Recipe to use leftover cranberries and minimize waste.
Choosing the right bubbly: Champagne or Prosecco?
While traditional mimosas call for champagne, prosecco is often a more affordable and equally delicious alternative. Choose a dry (brut) bottle to avoid making the drink overly sweet. And always make sure it’s well chilled—no one enjoys a warm mimosa.
Garnish ideas that elevate the presentation
Presentation matters, especially during the holidays. Top your mimosas with:
- A fresh orange slice on the rim
- A few whole cranberries floating on top
- A sprig of rosemary or thyme for aroma
Don’t miss our Candied Cranberries Holidays Recipe—a perfect edible garnish to make your drinks sparkle.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cranberry Orange Mimosas
How to prep the cranberry syrup ahead of time
One of the easiest ways to streamline your holiday hosting is to make the cranberry syrup in advance. Combine 1 ¼ cups of cranberries with ½ cup sugar and ½ cup water in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat until the cranberries soften and burst—about 10 minutes. Strain and chill. The syrup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to a week, making it the perfect make-ahead component for holiday mornings.
Looking for more cranberry-based ideas? Don’t miss our Cranberry Orange Preserves Recipe—a perfect addition to your breakfast spread.
Balancing sweetness and acidity in the glass
Start with 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice in your flute. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cranberry syrup, depending on how sweet you like it. Then, top it off with cold champagne or prosecco. The key is to pour the bubbly slowly to preserve the fizzy texture and create that gorgeous layered effect.
Here’s a quick reference guide:
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orange Juice | 3 tbsp |
| Cranberry Syrup | 1–2 tbsp |
| Champagne/Prosecco | To top |
| Garnish | Orange slice, cranberries |
Discover great ideas like our Holiday Punch Drink Recipe if you’re making cocktails for a larger crowd.
Presentation tips for a wow factor
Holiday drinks are as much about the look as the taste. Serve your Cranberry Orange Mimosa in a tall, slender champagne flute. Layer the orange juice first, followed by syrup, then top with bubbly. Add garnishes just before serving. A sugar rim or frosted cranberries instantly takes things up a notch. For added flair, chill your glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving.
Check out our Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls Method to serve with your mimosa for an elegant pairing.
Creative Variations You’ll Love
Sparkling cranberry orange mocktail (non-alcoholic)
Want to offer a non-alcoholic mimosa option? Swap out the prosecco with sparkling water, club soda, or even non-alcoholic sparkling wine. This variation keeps all the flavor and festivity, minus the booze—perfect for kids, moms-to-be, or anyone skipping alcohol.
Adding herbs or spices for flavor depth
To bring a unique spin, try infusing the cranberry syrup with warming spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or star anise. You can also add a sprig of rosemary or mint as a garnish for aromatic complexity. These small touches transform a simple drink into a signature cocktail.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Tart Cherry Mulled Drink Recipe for more spice-driven winter beverages.
Holiday punch version for a crowd
Serving a group? Scale the recipe up by mixing the orange juice and cranberry syrup in a pitcher, then top with a full bottle of prosecco right before serving. Add cranberries, orange slices, and ice cubes shaped like snowflakes or stars to create a holiday mimosa punch that’s as stunning as it is simple.
Here’s a batch recipe for 6 guests:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orange Juice | 1½ cups |
| Cranberry Syrup | ¾ cup |
| Prosecco | 1 bottle |
| Garnish | ½ cup cranberries, 1 orange (sliced) |
Pair this punch with our Christmas Cookie Bars Dessert Recipe for the ultimate sweet-and-sip spread.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cranberry Orange Mimosas
How to prep the cranberry syrup ahead of time
One of the easiest ways to streamline your holiday hosting is to make the cranberry syrup in advance. Combine 1 ¼ cups of cranberries with ½ cup sugar and ½ cup water in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat until the cranberries soften and burst—about 10 minutes. Strain and chill. The syrup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to a week, making it the perfect make-ahead component for holiday mornings.
Looking for more cranberry-based ideas? Don’t miss our Cranberry Orange Preserves Recipe—a perfect addition to your breakfast spread.
Balancing sweetness and acidity in the glass
Start with 3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice in your flute. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cranberry syrup, depending on how sweet you like it. Then, top it off with cold champagne or prosecco. The key is to pour the bubbly slowly to preserve the fizzy texture and create that gorgeous layered effect.
Here’s a quick reference guide:
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orange Juice | 3 tbsp |
| Cranberry Syrup | 1–2 tbsp |
| Champagne/Prosecco | To top |
| Garnish | Orange slice, cranberries |
Discover great ideas like our Holiday Punch Drink Recipe if you’re making cocktails for a larger crowd.
Presentation tips for a wow factor
Holiday drinks are as much about the look as the taste. Serve your Cranberry Orange Mimosa in a tall, slender champagne flute. Layer the orange juice first, followed by syrup, then top with bubbly. Add garnishes just before serving. A sugar rim or frosted cranberries instantly takes things up a notch. For added flair, chill your glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving.
Check out our Mini Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls Method to serve with your mimosa for an elegant pairing.
Creative Variations You’ll Love
Sparkling cranberry orange mocktail (non-alcoholic)
Want to offer a non-alcoholic mimosa option? Swap out the prosecco with sparkling water, club soda, or even non-alcoholic sparkling wine. This variation keeps all the flavor and festivity, minus the booze—perfect for kids, moms-to-be, or anyone skipping alcohol.
Adding herbs or spices for flavor depth
To bring a unique spin, try infusing the cranberry syrup with warming spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or star anise. You can also add a sprig of rosemary or mint as a garnish for aromatic complexity. These small touches transform a simple drink into a signature cocktail.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Tart Cherry Mulled Drink Recipe for more spice-driven winter beverages.
Holiday punch version for a crowd
Serving a group? Scale the recipe up by mixing the orange juice and cranberry syrup in a pitcher, then top with a full bottle of prosecco right before serving. Add cranberries, orange slices, and ice cubes shaped like snowflakes or stars to create a holiday mimosa punch that’s as stunning as it is simple.
Here’s a batch recipe for 6 guests:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orange Juice | 1½ cups |
| Cranberry Syrup | ¾ cup |
| Prosecco | 1 bottle |
| Garnish | ½ cup cranberries, 1 orange (sliced) |
Pair this punch with our Christmas Cookie Bars Dessert Recipe for the ultimate sweet-and-sip spread.
FAQs About Cranberry Orange Mimosas
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work just as well for the simple syrup. There’s no need to thaw them—just simmer as directed. They’ll burst and infuse the syrup with the same tart-sweet flavor and deep red color.
How long does cranberry simple syrup last?
When stored in an airtight jar in the fridge, cranberry simple syrup stays fresh for up to one week. For longer shelf life, you can add a splash of vodka as a preservative, or freeze it in an ice cube tray and thaw as needed.
What’s the best ratio of juice to champagne?
A good rule of thumb is 3 parts champagne to 1 part juice, with a tablespoon or two of cranberry syrup. This keeps the cocktail light and bubbly, with enough citrus and berry flavor to shine through.
Can I make them in a pitcher for a party?
Absolutely. Combine orange juice and cranberry syrup in a pitcher, and top it with prosecco right before serving to maintain the fizz. Use a ladle or pour into glasses gently to preserve the bubbles.
Final Thoughts on Making the Best Cranberry Orange Mimosas
Why this drink never fails to impress
From its vibrant color to its balanced flavor, the Cranberry Orange Mimosa brings holiday cheer in every sip. It’s the kind of cocktail that turns a regular brunch into a festive occasion. Whether you’re entertaining family, friends, or just treating yourself, this drink is sure to please.
Make-ahead tips for stress-free entertaining
Make the cranberry syrup a few days in advance, chill your prosecco overnight, and prep garnishes the night before. With just a few steps done ahead, you’ll have more time to mingle and enjoy the moment.
Cheers to flavor and festivity!
So go ahead—raise a glass to joy, flavor, and effortless entertaining. Your holiday table just found its signature drink.
Looking for more festive ideas? Check out our Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash—it’s another bold winter cocktail to try this season.
PrintCranberry Orange Mimosa
A festive twist on the classic mimosa, this Cranberry Orange Mimosa combines fresh orange juice, homemade cranberry simple syrup, and bubbly prosecco or champagne. Perfect for holiday brunches and winter celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop + Mixed
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
- 1 bottle champagne or prosecco, chilled
- Orange slices and cranberries for garnish
- 1 1/4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (for syrup)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for syrup)
- 1/2 cup water (for syrup)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and let cranberries steep for about 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve and discard the cranberries. Chill the syrup until cold.
- To make each mimosa, pour 3 tablespoons of orange juice into a champagne flute.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of cranberry simple syrup, depending on desired sweetness.
- Top with chilled champagne or prosecco.
- Garnish with a slice of orange and a few cranberries.
Notes
- Cranberry syrup can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Use frozen cranberries if fresh aren’t available.
- Prosecco is a great alternative to champagne and is usually more budget-friendly.
- Freeze cranberries or orange juice cubes to keep mimosas cold without dilution.
