If you’re looking to add some cheerful sparkle to your next brunch or special gathering, the Orange-Cranberry Mimosa is the perfect choice. This vibrant drink combines the sunny sweetness of fresh orange juice with the tart zing of cranberry, all lifted by your favorite bubbles. It’s a breeze to make but looks and tastes delightfully sophisticated, making every toast feel a bit more festive. Whether you’re impressing your friends or simply treating yourself, this Orange-Cranberry Mimosa is a refreshing twist on a classic that you’ll want to share again and again.

Orange-Cranberry Mimosa Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Orange-Cranberry Mimosa is how just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients come together for big, beautiful flavor. Every element has a special role—some for sweetness, some for tartness, and some for that unmistakable party sparkle!

Fresh-squeezed orange juice: The sweetness and bright citrus notes set the tone for the cocktail, so go for freshly squeezed if you can.
Fresh cranberry juice: Look for pure cranberry juice (not cocktail) for that bold, tangy punch and gorgeous ruby color.
Seltzer or sparkling wine: Seltzer keeps things light and alcohol-free, while sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch—pick your favorite bubbly!
Orange pieces: Fresh slices or wedges for serving not only look pretty, but infuse extra zest into every sip.
Fresh cranberries: Float a few in each glass for a festive garnish that wows visually and hints at the cranberry flavor inside.

How to Make Orange-Cranberry Mimosa

Step 1: Mix and Chill the Juices

Start by combining your fresh orange juice and cranberry juice in a pitcher or jar. This not only blends their flavors but also gives those vivid colors time to mingle beautifully. Cover and refrigerate your juice mixture for up to 2 days—an excellent way to get ahead for entertaining or meal prep.

Step 2: Assemble the Mimosas

When it’s time to serve, pour the orange-cranberry blend into glasses, filling each about halfway. This foundation layer lets the subtle gradation of color shine through when you add your bubbles for that classic mimosa look.

Step 3: Top with Bubbles

Ready for the fun part? Gently top each glass with chilled seltzer or sparkling wine (figure about 6 tablespoons per glass). Go slow to preserve that lovely fizz, which lifts the flavors and transforms the drink into a refreshing celebration in a glass.

Step 4: Garnish and Enjoy

To finish, tuck an orange wedge or twist on the rim and drop in a few whole cranberries. These final touches make the Orange-Cranberry Mimosa as gorgeous as it is delicious—snap a pic before the first toast!

How to Serve Orange-Cranberry Mimosa

Garnishes

This drink practically begs for a fun garnish. Try a thin slice of orange perched on the rim or floating in the glass, with a few sparkling fresh cranberries bobbing alongside. For extra flair, add a sprig of mint or a twist of orange peel to highlight the citrus aroma and amplify the color contrast.

Side Dishes

The Orange-Cranberry Mimosa pairs beautifully with brunch favorites like buttery pastries, savory quiches, or crisp bacon. Its sweet-tart flavor also complements fresh fruit salads or creamy cheeses—think a festive brunch board your friends won’t stop talking about.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this mimosa in classic champagne flutes for an elegant feel, or use stemless wine glasses for a modern, relaxed vibe. For a party, try a DIY mimosa bar with bowls of sliced oranges, cranberries, and a pitcher of chilled juice, so everyone can customize their own signature Orange-Cranberry Mimosa.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra juice mix, store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just hold off on adding the seltzer or sparkling wine until you’re ready to serve, to preserve maximum fizz and freshness.

Freezing

Freezing the juice mixture itself is a great trick if you want to prep even further ahead. Pour any leftover juice into an ice cube tray, freeze it, then transfer cubes to a resealable bag. When ready to serve, pop a couple cubes in your glass and top with bubbly for a chilled, flavor-packed mimosa.

Reheating

No reheating needed here—just make sure your juice and bubbles are thoroughly chilled before serving. If your leftover juice has lost a bit of zing, a quick stir and a squeeze of fresh orange will bring it right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use bottled juice instead of fresh?

If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange and cranberry juices will work, but fresh-squeezed really brings out the bright, vibrant flavors and color that make this Orange-Cranberry Mimosa so special.

What type of sparkling wine is best?

Dry sparkling wines like brut Champagne, Prosecco, or Cava are ideal—they balance nicely with the fruit juices and don’t overwhelm the drink’s delicate flavors. Feel free to use any bubbly you love!

Can I make the Orange-Cranberry Mimosa non-alcoholic?

Absolutely! Just stick with seltzer or use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine for a mocktail version that’s every bit as delicious and refreshing.

How can I make this drink sweeter?

Adjust the sweetness to taste by stirring in a touch of simple syrup or honey to the juice blend before serving, or use a sweeter sparkling wine if you prefer.

Will the cranberries add flavor to the drink?

The fresh cranberries are mostly a visual touch—they look gorgeous and festive but won’t add much flavor unless they’re muddled. If you want more cranberry punch, use extra juice or a splash of cranberry liqueur.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply making brunch a little brighter, the Orange-Cranberry Mimosa is an effortless way to bring a touch of sparkle and joy to your table. Give it a try and watch your guests light up with the very first sip—it’s a delightful tradition in the making!