This Cranberry Orange Prosecco Cocktail is a bubbly delight! The tart cranberry flavor mixes perfectly with the sweet orange for a refreshing drink that sparkles.
It’s perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds. I love serving it at brunch—what a fun way to start the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work perfectly. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, use frozen. They hold up well in the cooking process and still bring that vibrant flavor.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best taste, but store-bought works too. If you’re looking for a fun twist, consider using blood orange juice for a unique color and flavor profile!
Simple Syrup/Honey: I usually go for simple syrup for its smooth sweetness, but honey adds a nice depth. Adjust the amount based on your taste. If you’d like to make it even healthier, agave syrup is also a great option.
Prosecco: Any bubbly wine works, but Prosecco has the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. If you need a non-alcoholic option, consider using sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
How Do You Make the Best Cranberry Mixture?
Getting the cranberry mixture right is essential for a balanced cocktail. Here are some tips:
- Cook the cranberries until they pop; this releases their juices and enhances the flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less syrup or honey based on your preference.
- Let the mixture cool before adding it to the Prosecco; this helps maintain the fizz!
By following these steps, your cocktail will shine with flavor and be a festive highlight at any gathering!
Cranberry Orange Prosecco Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cocktail:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 1-2 tablespoons simple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 bottle Prosecco (chilled)
For Garnish:
- Orange slices
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Ice cubes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to make. You’ll need a few minutes for cooking the cranberries and mixing the ingredients, plus just a little time to assemble it all together and get ready to serve. It’s quick, fun, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, orange juice, and your choice of simple syrup or honey. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, just until the cranberries start to pop and release their lovely juice. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Optional: You can mash some of the cranberries to extract even more flavor.
2. Fill the Glasses:
Take your serving glasses and fill them halfway with the delicious cranberry-orange mixture you just prepared. This will form the flavorful base of your cocktail!
3. Add the Bubbles:
Slowly and gently top off each glass with chilled Prosecco. Make sure to pour it slowly to keep all those lovely bubbles intact. This step adds the bubbly fun to your drink!
4. Garnish for Perfection:
Next, for the finishing touch, drop in a few whole cranberries and a slice of orange into each glass for a pop of color. It makes everything look festive!
5. Add a Herbaceous Touch:
Finally, add a sprig of fresh rosemary into each glass. Not only does it look gorgeous, but it also adds a delightful aroma as you sip your cocktail!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Congratulations! Your sparkling Cranberry Orange Prosecco Cocktail is ready to serve. Enjoy this bright and refreshing drink immediately and revel in the festive flavors!
Can I Use Other Types of Bubbly Instead of Prosecco?
Absolutely! While Prosecco is ideal for its perfect sweetness and effervescence, you can substitute it with other sparkling wines like Cava, Champagne, or even a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage for a mocktail version.
Can I Make the Cranberry Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cranberry mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good mix before adding it to the Prosecco, as some of the ingredients may settle.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
You can definitely tweak the sweetness to your liking! Start with 1 tablespoon of simple syrup and taste before adding more. You can also try using agave syrup or skipping sweeteners altogether for a less sweet cocktail.
What Should I Do with Leftover Cranberries?
If you have leftover cranberries, keep them fresh in the fridge for a week or freeze them for later use! Frozen cranberries are great for smoothies, baking, or even as ice cubes in future cocktails for a seasonal touch.
