Festive Sparkling Christmas Mimosa Recipe Easy Step by Step Guide

Let me tell you, the sight of crystal-clear flutes filled with bubbly golden liquid, crowned with vibrant red cranberries and sprigs of fresh rosemary, is enough to make anyone’s holiday spirit soar. The first time I made this festive sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. It was a chilly December morning, and as the fizz tickled my nose, I felt that warm, cozy holiday magic settle in my chest.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, Christmas mornings were all about sugary treats and sparkling surprises. This mimosa recipe brings back that nostalgic comfort but with a grown-up twist that’s dangerously easy to whip up. I stumbled upon this blend during a rainy weekend, trying to recreate a festive brunch drink I’d tasted once at a friend’s holiday party. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered it years ago—it’s become a staple for family gatherings, gifting, and those moments when you want something bright and bubbly to brighten up your Pinterest cookie board.

My family couldn’t stop sneaking sips off the counter (and I can’t really blame them). This sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe isn’t just a drink; it’s pure, nostalgic comfort in a glass. Perfect for potlucks, a sweet treat for your kids’ holiday brunch (minus the champagne, of course), or as a dazzling welcome drink at your next festive bash. You’re going to want to bookmark this one for sure.

Why You’ll Love This Festive Sparkling Christmas Mimosa Recipe

Having tested this sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe more times than I’d like to admit (in the name of research, of course), I can say it’s a real crowd-pleaser and a holiday showstopper. Here’s why it’s worth making your go-to festive cocktail:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 10 minutes—perfect for busy holiday mornings or last-minute celebrations.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping trips required; you likely have most of these in your pantry or fridge already.
• Perfect for Holiday Occasions: Great for Christmas brunches, New Year’s Eve toasts, or anytime you want a festive sparkle.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike enjoy it (just skip the champagne for the little ones).
• Unbelievably Delicious: The balance of tart cranberry, aromatic rosemary, and crisp sparkling wine hits all the right notes for holiday cheer.

What makes this mimosa recipe stand out? It’s all about the festive twist—fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs add a burst of color and an herbal note that’s unexpected but totally delightful. Plus, using a quality sparkling wine or champagne (I recommend Veuve Clicquot for best fizz and flavor) makes the whole thing pop. This isn’t just another mimosa; it’s your best version, perfect for impressing guests without any stress.

Close your eyes after the first sip, and you’ll feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy holiday blanket—comfort food, but in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a big family brunch or just treating yourself, this sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe is the festive sparkle you didn’t know you needed.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying sparkle without the fuss. Most are pantry staples or easy to find in any grocery store during the holiday season.

• Chilled Sparkling Wine or Champagne (750 ml bottle) – I prefer brut or extra dry for a crisp finish.
• Fresh Cranberry Juice (1 cup / 240 ml) – Provides tartness and festive color. Look for 100% juice, no added sugars.
• Orange Juice (1 cup / 240 ml) – Freshly squeezed if possible, for that bright citrus zing.
• Fresh Cranberries (a handful) – For garnish; adds a pop of color and a festive touch.
• Fresh Rosemary Sprigs (a few sprigs) – Adds aromatic herbal notes and looks pretty in the glass.
• Simple Syrup (optional, 2 tablespoons) – Use if you like a sweeter mimosa. Can be store-bought or homemade.

If you want to customize, you can swap out the cranberry juice for pomegranate juice for a slightly different tartness, or use a sparkling rosé for a blush hue. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the sparkling wine with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling cider.

Equipment Needed

• Champagne Flutes or Tall Glasses: Essential for that elegant presentation and to keep the bubbles alive longer.
• Measuring Cups: For precise liquid measurements—helps keep the balance perfect.
• Pitcher or Mixing Jug: To combine your juices and simple syrup before topping with sparkling wine.
• Stirrer or Spoon: For gentle mixing without losing the fizz.
• Citrus Juicer: Handy if you’re squeezing fresh oranges (although you can always do this by hand).

Don’t stress if you’re missing a citrus juicer; a fork or reamer works just fine. For budget-friendly options, basic measuring cups and spoons from any kitchen store do the trick. I once used a regular tumbler when I misplaced my flutes—while not ideal, it still tasted wonderful!

Preparation Method

1. Chill All Ingredients: Make sure your sparkling wine, cranberry juice, and orange juice are well chilled before starting. This keeps your mimosa crisp and refreshing. (About 1 hour in the fridge)
2. Prepare Simple Syrup (Optional): If you want a sweeter mimosa, combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat gently until sugar dissolves, then cool. (About 10 minutes)
3. Mix Juices: In a pitcher, combine 1 cup (240 ml) cranberry juice, 1 cup (240 ml) orange juice, and 2 tablespoons simple syrup if using. Stir gently to blend. This mixture is your flavor base.
4. Pour Juices into Flutes: Fill each champagne flute about halfway (roughly 4 ounces / 120 ml). This allows room for the sparkling wine.
5. Add Sparkling Wine: Slowly top off each glass with chilled sparkling wine or champagne, about 4 ounces (120 ml) per flute. Pour gently to keep the bubbles lively.
6. Garnish: Drop 3 to 4 fresh cranberries into each flute and add a small rosemary sprig for that festive aroma and visual pop.
7. Serve Immediately: Mimosa is best enjoyed fresh, so serve right away for maximum fizz and flavor.

Tip: If your mimosa tastes flat or dull, it’s usually because the sparkling wine is warm or poured too fast. Keep everything chilled, and pour slowly down the side of the glass to preserve bubbles.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making the perfect sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe is more about finesse than fancy skills. Here’s what I’ve learned from trial and error:

• Keep It Cold: This is key. Warm sparkling wine loses its fizz fast, so chill everything well ahead of time.
• Pour Slowly: Pouring sparkling wine too fast causes bubbling over. Tilt your glass slightly and pour down the side to keep bubbles intact.
• Don’t Overdo Sweetness: It’s tempting to add lots of simple syrup, but too much can overwhelm the bright citrus and crisp bubbles. Start with less—you can always add more.
• Fresh Over Bottled: Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a huge difference. Bottled juice can taste dull or too sweet.
• Garnish Matters: Rosemary sprigs not only look festive but release wonderful aroma as you sip—don’t skip them!
• Batch Prep: For parties, mix the juices and syrup in a big pitcher ahead of time, then add sparkling wine just before serving to keep fizz fresh.

Variations & Adaptations

If you want to switch things up, this sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe is incredibly flexible. Here are some tried-and-true variations:

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute sparkling wine with sparkling water or sparkling apple cider. Kids and designated drivers will love this bubbly alternative.
• Flavor Swap: Use pomegranate juice instead of cranberry for a deeper, slightly sweeter flavor. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a jewel-like effect.
• Herbal Twist: Try fresh thyme or mint instead of rosemary for a different herbal aroma that pairs beautifully with citrus.
• Spiced Mimosa: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a splash of ginger syrup to the juice mix for a cozy holiday vibe.
• Dietary Adaptation: For a low-sugar option, skip the simple syrup and use unsweetened cranberry juice or dilute with sparkling water.

Personally, I once swapped the rosemary for lavender sprigs—talk about a showstopper! The floral notes paired surprisingly well with the bubbles and citrus. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe chilled in elegant flutes for that festive feel. It pairs wonderfully with light brunch plates—think fluffy scrambled eggs, buttery croissants, or a fresh fruit salad to balance the citrusy tang.

If you have leftovers (though rare!), don’t worry. Store the mixed juice base (without sparkling wine) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add sparkling wine just before serving to keep the fizz intact.

For reheating, mimosa isn’t really designed to be warmed, but if you want a cozy twist, try gently warming the juice base with a cinnamon stick for a mulled flavor (hold the sparkling wine until serving). The flavors also develop nicely if you prepare the juice mixture a day in advance, letting the cranberry and orange mingle.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of this festive sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe (about 8 ounces / 240 ml) contains approximately:

Calories	120-150
Carbohydrates	10-15 grams (mainly from fruit juices)
Sugar	8-12 grams (can be adjusted by skipping simple syrup)
Alcohol	Yes (if using sparkling wine)

Key ingredients like cranberry and orange juice boast antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health during the winter months. Using fresh juices over processed varieties helps keep added sugars lower. For those avoiding gluten or dairy, this recipe is naturally free of both.

Conclusion

This festive sparkling Christmas mimosa recipe is a no-fail way to add sparkle and joy to your holiday celebrations. It’s quick, simple, and adaptable—plus, it looks stunning on any brunch table or holiday party. I love it because it brings together the best of holiday flavors with that fizzy fun everyone adores.

Feel free to tweak the ingredients, garnish with your favorite herbs or fruits, and make this recipe your own signature holiday treat. I’d love to hear how you customize your mimosas—drop a comment or share your variations below! Here’s to bubbly moments and joyful cheers this season.

FAQs About Festive Sparkling Christmas Mimosa Recipe

Can I make this mimosa ahead of time?

Yes! Mix the juice base (cranberry and orange juice, with or without simple syrup) up to 3 days ahead and keep it refrigerated. Add sparkling wine just before serving for the best fizz.

What if I don’t like rosemary?

No problem! You can substitute fresh thyme, mint, or even skip the herb garnish altogether. The mimosa tastes great without it, but herbs add a nice aromatic touch.

Is there a non-alcoholic option?

Absolutely. Replace the sparkling wine with sparkling water, sparkling apple cider, or any non-alcoholic bubbly beverage for a festive mocktail everyone can enjoy.

Can I use frozen cranberries for garnish?

Yes, but thaw them first and pat dry to avoid watering down your mimosa. Fresh cranberries look and taste best, but frozen work in a pinch.

How do I keep the mimosa from going flat?

Keep all ingredients cold and pour sparkling wine slowly down the side of the glass. Serve immediately, as mimosas don’t hold their bubbles well over time.

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