This Holly Jolly Mimosa is a cheerful drink for any festive occasion! With bubbly champagne and sweet cranberry juice, it brings a splash of holiday joy to your glass.
Perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy holiday gathering! I love serving it with a slice of orange on the rim. It’s all about spreading good cheer, one sip at a time! 🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Champagne or Sparkling Wine: Use any chilled bubbly you like! Prosecco is a great, budget-friendly option that pairs perfectly. I find that a dry sparkling wine balances the sweetness of the juices well.
Cranberry Juice: For a healthier twist, choose unsweetened cranberry juice. You can also substitute with pomegranate juice for a different flavor. It adds a nice color too!
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice offers the best taste. However, store-bought juice can work if you’re in a rush. If you want more zing, try adding a splash of grapefruit juice.
Garnish: While fresh cranberries and rosemary are festive, you could also use mint leaves or a slice of orange for a different look and flavor.
How Do You Layer the Ingredients for a Beautiful Mimosa?
Layering the juices creates a stunning look! Here’s how:
- Start with a chilled champagne flute to keep your mimosa cool.
- Pour the orange juice first; it’s heavier and will stay at the bottom.
- Gently pour in the cranberry juice over the back of a spoon to avoid mixing too much.
- Finally, add the sparkling wine slowly; it’ll float on top for a lovely layered effect.
Taking your time while pouring makes all the difference in presentation!
Holly Jolly Mimosa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz chilled champagne or sparkling wine
- 2 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 oz orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- 1 fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec) for added depth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Holly Jolly Mimosa takes just about 5-10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and festive drink that will have you celebrating in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill Your Glass:
Before you get started, pop your champagne flute in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This helps keep your mimosa nice and cool!
2. Pour the Orange Juice:
Once your flute is chilled, begin by pouring 1 oz of freshly squeezed orange juice into the glass. This will form the base of your mimosa.
3. Add the Cranberry Juice:
Next, gently add 2 oz of cranberry juice over a spoon or down the side of the glass to create a lovely layered look. This step adds a festive color and flavor combination!
4. Top with Champagne:
Now it’s time to pour in 3 oz of your chilled champagne or sparkling wine. Pour slowly to maintain the layers and avoid mixing the juices.
5. Optional Orange Liqueur:
If you want to elevate your mimosa, carefully pour in 1/2 oz of orange liqueur before adding the champagne. This will add an extra depth of flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
6. Garnish for Festivity:
Add a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of fresh rosemary to the top of your drink for a beautiful and festive garnish that not only looks good but adds a wonderful aroma too!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Holly Jolly Mimosa immediately while it’s bubbly and fresh. Cheers to the holiday season!
Can I Use Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine?
Absolutely! Non-alcoholic sparkling wine or even sparkling cider works great for a festive touch without the alcohol. It keeps the bubbly texture while still allowing everyone to enjoy a celebratory drink.
How Can I Make This Recipe for a Larger Group?
To serve a crowd, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. You can prepare it in a pitcher, mixing the orange juice, cranberry juice, and orange liqueur first, and then add the chilled sparkling wine just before serving to keep it bubbly!
What Can I Substitute for Cranberry Juice?
If you don’t have cranberry juice, you can use pomegranate juice or raspberry juice for a similar tartness. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly!
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
Store any leftover cranberry juice and orange juice in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep your champagne or sparkling wine sealed tightly to prevent it from going flat.