Description
Few drinks capture the festive spirit as effortlessly as a sparkling cranberry mocktail. Bright, bubbly, and beautifully garnished, this alcohol-free drink balances tart cranberry, citrus freshness, and just the right touch of sweetness. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or any celebration.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
2 cups (480 ml) cranberry juice (100% juice, unsweetened or sweetened)
1 cup (240 ml) orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
2 tablespoons simple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
Sparkling Element:
2 cups (480 ml) sparkling water, club soda, or lemon-lime soda (chilled)
Garnishes:
½ cup fresh cranberries (frozen works as edible “ice”)
1 orange, thinly sliced
1 lime, thinly sliced
Fresh mint sprigs (optional)
Optional Glass Rim:
2 tablespoons sugar
Zest of 1 orange or lime
Instructions
Prepare the Glasses – Mix sugar and citrus zest. Rub a lime wedge on glass rims and dip into sugar mixture for a festive look.
Mix the Base – In a pitcher, stir together cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, and sweetener (if using). Adjust sweetness to taste.
Add the Sparkle – Just before serving, pour in chilled sparkling water or soda. Stir gently to preserve bubbles.
Assemble the Drinks – Add ice or frozen cranberries to glasses. Pour mocktail mixture, leaving 1 inch at the top. Garnish with citrus slices and mint.
Serve Immediately – Enjoy while the fizz is fresh and garnishes vibrant.
Notes
Prep the juice base up to 24 hours ahead; add sparkling water only before serving.
Frozen cranberries double as ice cubes without watering down the drink.
Adjust tartness by choosing unsweetened or sweetened cranberry juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Mocktails
- Method: Mixed (no-cook)
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (about 8 oz)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: sparkling cranberry mocktail, holiday mocktail, non-alcoholic drink, festive cranberry recipe