This Holly Jolly Mimosa is a fun twist on the classic drink, adding holiday cheer to your brunch! Made with bubbly champagne and sweet cranberry juice, it’s a toast to the season.
You can easily whip up a batch to impress guests or just enjoy a glass while relaxing. Who knew sipping holiday spirit could be so delicious and festive? Cheers to that! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is the best choice for a vibrant flavor. If you’re short on time, store-bought juice works too. You can also use blood orange juice for a twist in color and taste.
Cranberry Juice: This adds a lovely tartness. Opt for 100% cranberry juice rather than sweetened versions to keep it refreshing. If you’re looking for a sweeter flavor, consider using pomegranate juice instead.
Champagne or Sparkling Wine: While champagne is classic, any dry sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Cava, can work well. Look for bottles marked “brut” for less sweetness. If avoiding alcohol, try sparkling water or soda as a non-alcoholic substitution.
Fresh Cranberries: They are perfect for garnish! If they aren’t available, pomegranate seeds make a great alternative for that festive look.
Fresh Rosemary: This adds a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have rosemary, consider using mint for a lighter herbal note.
How Can I Create That Beautiful Layered Effect?
Achieving the lovely gradient in your Holly Jolly Mimosa takes a bit of care but is quite simple. Start by pouring the orange juice first, then gently add the cranberry juice. The key is to pour slowly over the back of a spoon so it sits on top of the orange juice rather than mixing.
- Chill the glass: Cold glasses help keep the drink refreshing.
- Pour slowly: When adding cranberry juice, use the back of a spoon to minimize mixing and create layers.
- Top carefully: Add the champagne or sparkling wine slowly to maintain the layers.
These steps will make your Holly Jolly Mimosa not only taste great but look festive, too! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to admire your creation before sipping!
Holly Jolly Mimosa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 oz cranberry juice (for color and tartness)
- 4 oz chilled champagne or sparkling wine
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing mimosa takes about 5 minutes to prepare. You don’t need any cooking time, just some quick pouring and garnishing. Perfect for a festive brunch or a cozy holiday gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill the Glass:
Start by chilling your champagne flute in the fridge or freezer. This will keep your mimosa refreshing and bubbly when you pour it.
2. Pour the Orange Juice:
Once your glass is chilled, gently pour the orange juice into the flute. Filling it about three-quarters full is a good guideline so you have room for the other ingredients.
3. Add the Cranberry Juice:
Now it’s time to add the cranberry juice. Pour it slowly over the back of a spoon. This will help create that beautiful layered effect from red to orange. Take your time with this step—it’s what makes the mimosa so visually impressive!
4. Top with Champagne:
Carefully top off the flute with chilled champagne or sparkling wine. Again, pour it slowly to maintain those gorgeous layers. Watch the colors blend as you go!
5. Garnish Your Mimosa:
For a festive touch, toss a few fresh cranberries on top of your drink. This adds a pop of color and holiday flair!
6. Add Rosemary:
Finally, place a sprig of fresh rosemary in the drink. Not only does it look great, but it also adds a lovely aroma as you sip your mimosa.
7. Serve Immediately:
Your Holly Jolly Mimosa is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it fresh and feel the holiday spirit in every sip!
Can I Substitute the Orange Juice?
Absolutely! If you want a different flavor profile, try using grapefruit juice or blood orange juice. Just keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the sweetness and color of your mimosa.
Can I Make This Mimosa Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the champagne or sparkling wine with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. It’ll still be festive and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover orange or cranberry juice, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll usually last for about 3-5 days. Just give them a good shake before using, as the juices may separate.
Can I Prepare This Mimosa in Advance?
While the individual juices can be prepared ahead of time and chilled, it’s best to assemble the mimosa just before serving to keep the champagne bubbly and the colors vibrant. Enjoy the mixing experience with your guests!
