This jolly Santa Spritz Cocktail is a fun drink that’s perfect for celebrating! It’s a fizzy mix of cranberry juice, sparkling wine, and a splash of lime for a refreshing taste.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want to sip on something that sounds like Christmas cheer in a glass? I love garnishing it with fresh mint—talk about festive flair!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: Look for unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice for a balanced flavor. If you want a different twist, you can use pomegranate juice for a unique taste.
Sparking Wine or Prosecco: I love using Prosecco for its bubbly lightness. If you want a non-alcoholic version, swap it with sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine for fizz.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau is my favorite, but you can easily use Triple Sec or any other orange-flavored liqueur. For a non-alcoholic option, orange juice with a splash of soda might work.
Fresh Herbs: I always add a rosemary sprig for that aromatic touch. If you want something different, mint could also be a refreshing choice!
How Do I Make Sure The Bubbles Last in My Cocktail?
One key part of making the Santa Spritz is to keep those bubbles lively! When mixing, handle your drink gently. Here are a few tips:
- Pour the juice and liqueurs over the ice first. This helps cool them down before adding bubbly.
- After adding the sparkling wine, use a light hand to stir, just enough to mix without disturbing the carbonation.
- Serve it right away to enjoy maximum fizziness.
Santa Spritz Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 3 oz sparkling wine or Prosecco
- 1 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Orange slice, for garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy drink that’s perfect for your holiday gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill Your Glass:
Begin by filling a glass with ice cubes. This will help keep your drink cold and refreshing!
2. Mix the Juices:
Pour the cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and fresh lime juice over the ice. This mixture will give your Santa Spritz a tangy and fruity flavor.
3. Add the Bubbles:
Carefully top your drink with the sparkling wine or Prosecco. This is what brings the festive sparkle to your cocktail!
4. Stir Gently:
Using a spoon, gently stir the mixture to combine everything. Be careful not to stir too hard; you want to keep those lovely bubbles from fizzing away!
5. Garnish Playfully:
Now for the fun part! Add a few fresh cranberries into the drink, place an orange slice on the rim, and finish it off with a sprig of rosemary for a lovely presentation and aroma.
6. Serve Immediately:
Your festive Santa Spritz Cocktail is ready! Serve it right away and enjoy a taste of the holiday spirit!
Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! To create a refreshing non-alcoholic version of the Santa Spritz, simply replace the sparkling wine with sparkling water or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, and omit the orange liqueur. You can add a bit more cranberry juice or a splash of orange juice for flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries for garnish! Just keep in mind they might not have the same visual appeal as fresh ones. If you want to use them in the drink, they can be added directly into the glass as ice substitute.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Ingredients?
To store leftover cranberry juice or lime juice, keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. However, for a fresher taste, try to use them as soon as possible! Sparkling wine and orange liqueur can be kept in their original bottles and stored in a cool, dark place.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cocktail?
If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add a splash of simple syrup or adjust the amount of cranberry juice. A sweeter cranberry juice option or adding more orange liqueur will also increase sweetness. Just be cautious to maintain the balance of flavors!