The good thing about a mimosa is that there’s almost never an inappropriate time of the day to fire one up. This cranberry orange mimosa is a special weekend or holiday treat. If you are looking for a pretty champagne cocktail to help ring in the New Year, a holiday gathering, or just your average Saturday afternoon, look no further.

Cranberry Orange Mimosa

I just discovered the mimosa a couple of years ago, after I was into my 30’s and should’ve been an expert already. I don’t know if it was because I didn’t have many opportunities for brunch drinking (or much drinking at all), but now with the aid of you all (and my favorite work friend who is always down for one of these when we travel), I’m making up for lost time.

You may remember my Orange Creamsicle Mimosa for a crowd or my Pineapple Prosecco Cocktail. If you don’t remember them, drink less next time. If you’ve never tried them go and check them out. You’re going to want seconds.

I also have a Baby Blue Punch that is perfect for a baby shower. It doesn’t actually include champagne or prosecco or any bubbly wine in the original version of that post, but I’ve definitely subbed sparkling wine for the lemon-lime soda with amazing results. Shhhh.

This cranberry orange mimosa is beautiful. I put the orange juice and the cranberry first, and then gently poured in the prosecco for a layered look. Garnishing with orange slices adds a special little touch, and if it is fresh cranberry season for you I’d definitely throw a few sparkling cranberries on a toothpick for some additional flair.

How far in advance can I make these?

You can make these up to an hour in advance, but I’d save the bubbly and pop the cork immediately before serving for the best results. If you make it too far in advance, there’s always the chance you’ll sample it. Repeatedly. And then you’ll need to make another batch anyway.

How to make the perfect mimosa

• Make sure the ingredients are all WELL CHILLED. You want these cold and refreshing!
• Don’t go too crazy with expensive sparkling wine/champagne/prosecco. Any mid-level variety will do.
• Buy good juice! Or get crazy and fresh squeeze some. It really does make a difference.
• If you have to keep a mixed batch of this chilled, try using frozen berries. They will keep it cold, add some pretty variety to it, and won’t water it down like ice.

Need some food to go with this brunchy treat? I’ve got you covered.

This breakfast crescent ring with sausage and egg feeds a crowd, and is a snap to throw together too.

Need some more awesome mimosa or champagne cocktail ideas? Check out my roundup of the top champagne cocktails from my favorite people, after the jump.