The Christmas Mimosa is a festive twist on the classic mimosa that brings a burst of holiday cheer to your glass. It combines sparkling champagne or prosecco with fresh orange juice, and often includes a splash of cranberry juice or a hint of cranberry garnish to give it that perfect red and green Christmas vibe. The bubbles, bright citrus, and festive colors make it a refreshing and fun drink for holiday gatherings.
I love making Christmas Mimosas because they’re so easy and instantly make the mood feel special. You don’t have to be a mixologist to create something pretty and delicious that guests enjoy. A little tip I use: chill your juices and champagne well ahead of time for the best fizzy experience, and add a few fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary as garnish to make each glass look extra festive.
This drink is one of those perfect holiday starters that pairs well with brunch or a light appetizer. I often serve it during Christmas morning get-togethers, where it sets a joyful and relaxed tone. Sharing mimosas with family and friends is always a highlight of the season for me—it’s simple, cheerful, and a little bit bubbly happiness in a glass!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cranberry Juice
- This gives the drink its beautiful red color and a tart flavor that balances the sweetness. If you want less tartness, use cranberry cocktail or mix with a bit of pomegranate juice for a unique twist.
- Orange Juice
- Freshly squeezed orange juice works best for vibrant flavor and brightness. If fresh is unavailable, a good-quality bottled juice will do just fine.
- Champagne or Prosecco
- Sparkling wine is the heart of a mimosa. Prosecco is a budget-friendly alternative that is light and bubbly. Non-alcoholic sparkling wine or soda water can be used for a mocktail version.
- Fresh Cranberries and Rosemary
- These make the drinks look festive and add subtle aroma. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, frozen ones work well. Rosemary adds a lovely pine note, but mint can be used as a fresh green garnish.
How to Keep Your Mimosa Bubbly and Fresh?
Champagne and sparkling wine can lose bubbles quickly when mixed. To keep your mimosa fizzy and fresh:
- Make sure all liquids are well chilled before mixing to slow down bubble loss.
- Add sparkling wine last and pour gently down the side of your glass to avoid stirring too much.
- Mix juices together in advance, but combine with the sparkling wine just before serving.
- Use flute glasses to help keep the bubbles longer because their narrow shape traps the bubbles better.
Following these steps keeps your Christmas Mimosa festive and refreshing, perfect for your holiday celebrations!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Champagne flutes – They keep the bubbles longer and look elegant for the holiday feel.
- Large pitcher – Makes it easy to mix the juices and sparkling wine smoothly.
- Measuring cup – Helps you pour the right amount of juices every time.
- Long spoon – Perfect for gently stirring without losing the fizz.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try pomegranate juice instead of cranberry for a sweeter, floral twist that’s still festive.
- Add a splash of ginger liqueur or ginger beer for a spicy, warming note.
- Use blood orange juice for a richer color and slightly tangier taste during winter.
- Drop in a few frozen raspberries or blackberries for extra fruity flavor and a pretty garnish.
How to Make a Christmas Mimosa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Drink:
- 1 cup cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 bottle (750ml) chilled champagne or prosecco
For Garnish:
- Fresh cranberries
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Orange peel or dried orange slices (optional garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare. Just make sure to chill your juices and sparkling wine for a few hours beforehand so it’s nice and cold. Then gathering and mixing your ingredients only takes a few minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill Your Ingredients
Place the cranberry juice, orange juice, and champagne or prosecco in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Having everything cold is key for a refreshing, bubbly mimosa.
2. Mix the Juices
In a large pitcher, gently stir together the cranberry juice and fresh orange juice until well combined.
3. Add the Bubbly
Just before serving, slowly pour the chilled champagne or prosecco into the pitcher with the juice mixture. Stir very gently to keep as many bubbles as possible in the drink.
4. Garnish and Serve
Pour the mimosa into champagne flutes. Add a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary to each glass. For a snowy look, lightly dust the cranberries and rosemary with powdered sugar. Finish with an orange peel twist or dried orange slice on the rim if you like.
Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Christmas Mimosa!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for Garnish?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well! Just rinse them briefly under cold water to remove any frost before adding to your glass. They also help keep the drink cool longer.
Can I Prepare the Mimosa Ahead of Time?
You can mix the cranberry and orange juices a few hours in advance and keep them chilled, but add the champagne or prosecco right before serving to preserve the bubbles and freshness.
What Non-Alcoholic Alternatives Can I Use?
For a mocktail version, substitute champagne with sparkling water, soda water, or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. The juices remain the same for that festive color and flavor.
How Should Leftover Mimosa Be Stored?
Store any leftover mixture (without champagne) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Once sparkling wine is added, it’s best enjoyed immediately and not stored, as it will lose some fizz over time.