This fun Cranberry Prosecco Cocktail is sparkling and fruity! It combines bubbly Prosecco with tart cranberry juice and a twist of lime, making it perfect for celebrations.
Honestly, who can resist that fizz? I love serving these at parties, and they always make everyone smile! Just a few easy steps, and you’ll have a festive drink in no time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prosecco: This sparkling wine is essential for the cocktail’s fizz. If you can’t find Prosecco, you can use any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. Just make sure it’s bubbly and not overly sweet.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend using unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice for a nice tart balance. If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to use regular sweetened cranberry juice, or mix in some pomegranate juice for a unique flavor.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor, but store-bought juice works fine too. Just watch for pulp if you want a smoother drink! For a twist, you can substitute with grapefruit juice.
Syrup/Honey: The optional sweetness can be adjusted based on your taste. If you want a healthier option, try using agave nectar instead. You can also skip sweeteners altogether if you like a more tart drink.
How Do I Get My Glasses Ready with a Sugar Rim?
Rimming your glasses with sugar adds a lovely touch and extra sweetness. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by cutting a lime in half. Rub the cut side along the rim of each glass. This will help the sugar stick.
- Pour some sugar onto a plate, then dip the rim of the glass into the sugar. Twist slightly to coat evenly.
- Set the glasses aside to dry while you prepare your cocktails. This simple step adds a nice visual and flavor boost!
What’s the Best Way to Mix Without Losing Bubbles?
When mixing your cocktail, you want to keep those bubbles intact. Here’s how to do it:
- Make your juice mix, but add the Prosecco last. Pour it gently over the juice. This keeps the carbonation from fizzing away.
- Use a spoon to stir lightly if needed, but be gentle! You don’t want to lose all that lovely fizz.
Cranberry Prosecco Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Prosecco: 1 cup, chilled
- Cranberry Juice: 1/2 cup, unsweetened or lightly sweetened
- Orange Juice: 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed
- Lime Juice: 1 tbsp, freshly squeezed
- Simple Syrup or Honey: 1 tsp, optional for sweetness
- Fresh Cranberries: for garnish
- Rosemary Sprigs: for garnish
- Ice Cubes: enough to fill glasses
- Sugar: for rimming the glass, optional
- Orange Slices: optional, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. With a little assembly and mixing, you’ll have a delightful drink ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glasses:
If you like a sweet sugar rim, rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glasses, then dip each rim into sugar. This simple touch adds flavor and a festive look!
2. Fill the Glasses With Ice:
Take each prepared glass and fill them halfway with ice cubes. This keeps your drink nice and chilled.
3. Mix the Juice:
In a mixing glass, combine the cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, and optional sweetener (simple syrup or honey). Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
4. Pour the Juice Mixture:
Evenly pour the juice mixture over the ice in each glass, filling them about halfway.
5. Add the Bubbly:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Gently top each glass with the chilled Prosecco, pouring slowly to keep the bubbles intact.
6. Garnish Your Cocktails:
Finish off each drink with a sprig of rosemary and a skewer of fresh cranberries for a beautiful touch. If you want, add a slice of orange on the side for extra flair and flavor!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your Cranberry Prosecco Cocktails immediately to keep them fizzy and refreshing. Enjoy your festive drink with friends or at your next celebration!
Can I Use Sparkling Wine Other Than Prosecco?
Absolutely! If you can’t find Prosecco, feel free to substitute it with other dry sparkling wines like Cava or Champagne. Just ensure they are bubbly and not too sweet for the best results!
How Can I Make This Cocktail Less Sweet?
If you’d like a less sweet drink, simply reduce or omit the simple syrup or honey. Using unsweetened cranberry juice and more lime juice can also help balance the sweetness!
Can I Prepare the Juice Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, and sweetener in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add the Prosecco and ice right before serving to keep it bubbly!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cocktail?
It’s best to enjoy the cocktail immediately, as the fizz will fade. However, if you have leftovers without Prosecco, you can store the juice mixture in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just don’t add the sparkling wine until you’re ready to serve!
