A friend of mine makes this Cranberry Orange Sparkler, and after trying it, I knew I needed the recipe! Made with orange vodka, cranberry juice, and champagne, it is light, bubbly, and so easy to make. The cranberry and orange flavors make it a lovely drink for the holidays or any time you want something fun to sip.
If you enjoy cranberry cocktails, try my Cranberry Margarita next! And don’t stop there; I have plenty of Cranberry Recipes for the holidays and beyond to enjoy all year long.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Orange vodka: Adds a light orange flavor that pairs well with the cranberry juice. Regular vodka can also be used, but the drink will have less orange flavor.
- Cranberry juice: Use 100% cranberry juice for a tart drink or cranberry juice cocktail for a slightly sweeter drink. The sweetness of your juice will make the biggest difference in the finished cocktail.
- Champagne: Adds the bubbles and makes this drink feel festive. Prosecco or another dry sparkling wine can be used instead.
- Ice: Keeps the drink cold. Add it just before serving so it doesn’t water down the cocktail too much.
- Optional garnishes: Fresh cranberries, orange slices or twists, and fresh rosemary sprigs all make pretty additions. Use one or a combination, depending on what you have available.
FAQs
Can I Make This Cocktail Ahead of Time?
You can mix the orange vodka and cranberry juice a few hours ahead of time and keep the mixture covered in the refrigerator. Wait to add the champagne and ice until just before serving so the drink stays bubbly and cold.
Can I Make This Without Alcohol?
Yes! Replace the orange vodka with orange juice and use a nonalcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling cider in place of the champagne. It will still be fruity and bubbly.
Can I Use Prosecco Instead of Champagne?
Absolutely! Prosecco or another dry sparkling wine works well. Use whichever you prefer.
Can I Make a Pitcher of Cranberry Orange Sparklers?
Yes! Multiply the vodka and cranberry juice by the number of drinks you need and mix them in a pitcher. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Pour into ice-filled glasses and top each glass with champagne just before serving.
What If My Drink Is Too Tart?
If you’re using 100% cranberry juice, the drink will be more tart. You can use cranberry juice cocktail for a sweeter flavor or add a small splash of orange juice to soften the tartness.
How To Store Cranberry Orange Sparkler
This cocktail is best enjoyed right after it’s made while the champagne is still bubbly.
Refrigerator: If you have leftover orange vodka and cranberry juice mixed together, store it in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add fresh ice and champagne when ready to serve.
Champagne: Keep champagne sealed and refrigerated until you’re ready to use it. Once opened, reseal it with a sparkling wine stopper and refrigerate. For the best bubbles, enjoy within 1 to 3 days.
Cranberry Orange Sparkler
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces orange vodka
- 3 ounces cranberry juice
- Champagne, to top
- Ice
Optional Garnish
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange slices, or orange twists
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass or cocktail glass with ice.
- Pour in the orange vodka and cranberry juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Top with champagne.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries, an orange slice or twist, or a sprig of fresh rosemary, if desired. Serve immediately.
Did you make this recipe?
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