The Santa Spritz Cocktail is a festive drink that mixes bubbly Prosecco with fruity cranberry juice and a splash of orange liqueur. It’s like a holiday cheer in a glass!
This drink is so easy to make, and it looks fantastic too! I love serving it at parties. Just top it with some fresh cranberries and an orange slice for that extra festive touch! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prosecco: This sparkling wine adds lightness and fizz to the cocktail. If you can’t find Prosecco, any dry sparkling wine works well too, like Cava or Champagne. Just choose one that’s not too sweet!
Cranberry juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice gives a nice tartness. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can use light cranberry juice cocktail. You can also mix in pomegranate juice for a different flavor.
Orange liqueur: Cointreau or Triple Sec bring that citrusy kick. If you want a non-alcoholic version, you could use a splash of orange soda or simply some fresh orange juice for flavor.
Fresh garnishes: Fresh cranberries not only look pretty but also add a little extra flavor. For a fun twist, consider using orange slices or a sprig of mint instead of pine or rosemary.
How Do I Make a Perfectly Balanced Santa Spritz Cocktail?
Getting the right balance in your Santa Spritz is key for a delightful sip. Here are a few tips to make sure your drink comes out just right:
- Always start with chilled ingredients. This keeps your drink refreshing without needing to water it down with ice.
- Pour the orange liqueur first, then the cranberry juice. This way, you’ll get better mixing when you add the Prosecco.
- Remember to pour the Prosecco slowly to avoid too much fizz and spills. It’s all about those beautiful bubbles!
- Garnishes not only make your cocktail look amazing but also add lovely aromas. Don’t skip them!
Finally, serve it up with a smile and enjoy the holiday spirit this cocktail brings!
How to Make a Santa Spritz Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 oz Prosecco (or any sparkling white wine)
- 1.5 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Fresh pine sprig or rosemary, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Time Needed:
This delightful Santa Spritz Cocktail can be made in just about 5 minutes! It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Grab a stemless wine glass or a tumbler and fill it halfway with ice cubes. This will keep your drink nice and chilly!
2. Add the Juices:
Pour in the cranberry juice followed by the orange liqueur. This combination brings a vibrant color and flavor to your drink, making it festive and delicious.
3. Top it Off:
Slowly pour in the Prosecco to fill the glass, about 3 oz. Doing it slowly helps keep those lovely bubbles intact!
4. Give It a Gentle Stir:
With a light hand, stir the cocktail just enough to combine the ingredients without losing the fizz. You want to keep that sparkle!
5. Garnish for Festivity:
Drop a few fresh cranberries on top so they float. They add a pretty touch and a burst of flavor!
6. Add a Final Touch:
Place a fresh pine sprig or a rosemary sprig into the glass for an aromatic finish. It’s the perfect way to enhance the holiday spirit.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your lovely Santa Spritz immediately and toast with friends and family. Cheers to holiday celebrations!
Can I Use Different Types of Sparkling Wine?
Absolutely! While Prosecco is a great choice, you can substitute it with any dry sparkling wine like Cava or Champagne. Just make sure it’s not too sweet for the best flavor balance!
What if I Want a Non-Alcoholic Version?
No problem! You can create a festive mocktail by using sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine instead of Prosecco. For a fruity twist, add a splash of soda or tonic water!
How Do I Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
It’s best to store any leftover cranberry juice and orange liqueur in your fridge with tightly sealed lids. Use the juices within a week for the best freshness, while the liqueur will last much longer. Keep Prosecco chilled and consume it within a few days of opening for optimal fizziness!
Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the cranberry juice and orange liqueur mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just remember to add the Prosecco right before serving to keep those bubbles lively!
