Complete your holiday meal with this sparkling cranberry drink!
This mulled cranberry sparkler adds a festive finish to any holiday gathering. With citrus zest and warming spices, it pairs perfectly with rich Christmas side dishes while keeping things light and refreshing.
Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or a large holiday party, this sparkling drink is easy to make ahead and serves as the perfect finale to your meal.
The combination of sweet cranberry, bright orange zest, and cinnamon creates a balanced flavor profile that complements both savory and sweet dishes.
Pair it with spiced apple cake, maple-glazed ham, or even a rich chocolate tart for a complete festive experience.
Save this recipe to your holiday board for a drink that will impress your guests and add a touch of sparkle to your celebration!
Why This Recipe Works
Effortless Preparation
Ready in 15 minutes with no special equipment. Simply simmer, chill, and serve with sparkling water!
Make-Ahead Friendly
Simmered base keeps for 3 days in the fridge. Add sparkling water just before serving for maximum fizz.
Universal Pairing
Balances sweetness and acidity to complement both meat and dessert courses.
Festive Presentation
Garnish with cinnamon sticks and rosemary for a visually stunning holiday drink.
Mulled Cranberry Sparkler
A sparkling festive finish for your holiday meal
Ingredients
- - 2 cups cranberry juice
- - 1 cup water
- - 1 orange, sliced
- - 3 cinnamon sticks
- - 2 star anise pods
- - 1 tbsp honey
- - 1/2 cup sparkling water
Instructions
Simmer Base: In a saucepan, combine cranberry juice, water, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and honey. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
💡 Reduce heat to maintain a low simmer for 5 minutes. Avoid boiling to preserve flavor.
Chill Mixture: Remove from heat and let cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
💡 For best carbonation, add sparkling water just before serving.
Serve Sparkling: Pour chilled mixture into glasses and top with sparkling water. Garnish with rosemary and cinnamon sticks.
💡 Serve in stemmed glasses to maintain temperature and presentation.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice
Provides tartness and color. Use 100% juice for best flavor - avoid sweetened varieties.
Substitute: Pomegranate juice for a deeper flavor.
Orange Slices
Adds bright citrus notes and natural oils. Use organic oranges for maximum flavor.
Substitute: Lemon slices for a more acidic profile.
Honey
Balances tartness with natural sweetness. Local raw honey adds floral complexity.
Substitute: Maple syrup for a more robust flavor.
Sparkling Water
Creates effervescence for a refreshing finish. Use chilled sparkling water for best results.
Substitute: Prosecco for a festive alcoholic version.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mulled Cranberry Sparkler
Flavor Development
Let the mixture chill for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to fully meld. Overnight refrigeration is ideal.
Serving Temperature
Serve chilled but not icy. Ideal temperature is 40°F (4°C) for optimal flavor balance.
Garnish Tips
Use fresh rosemary sprigs and cinnamon sticks for maximum visual impact. Add just before serving.
Make-Ahead Strategy
Prepare the base up to 3 days in advance. Store in the fridge and add sparkling water just before serving to maintain carbonation.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Version
Add 1/4 tsp ground cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth. Perfect with roasted meats.
Dessert Pairing
Serve with a splash of sparkling wine for a festive cocktail version that pairs with chocolate desserts.
Low-Sugar Option
Use sugar-free cranberry juice and substitute honey with a sugar substitute like stevia.
Citrus Twist
Add grapefruit slices or lime wedges for a more complex citrus flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Spiced Apple Cake: The tartness of the cranberry balances the cake's sweetness.
- Maple-Glazed Ham: The citrus notes complement the ham's richness.
- Chocolate Truffles: A festive dessert pairing that contrasts sweet and tart flavors.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
For non-alcoholic: Serve as is. For adult guests: Add a splash of Prosecco or Champagne.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the base up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Refrigerator Storage
Simmered base keeps for 3-4 days. Add sparkling water just before serving.
Freezer Storage
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before using.
Reheating Instructions
Not recommended - this drink is best served chilled with sparkling water added at serving time.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cranberry juice?
A: Yes, but thaw completely first. Frozen juice may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Q: How to adjust sweetness?
A: Add sugar or honey gradually while tasting. Start with 1 tbsp and add more as needed.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Set on low for 4-6 hours. Avoid using the 'warm' setting as it may not fully infuse the flavors.
Q: What if I don't have star anise?
A: Substitute with 1/4 tsp ground anise or a pinch of nutmeg for similar warming notes.
Final Thoughts
This mulled cranberry sparkler is the perfect festive drink to complete your holiday meal. Its bright flavors and elegant presentation will impress your guests while providing a refreshing contrast to richer dishes.
Try serving it alongside spiced apple cake or a rich chocolate tart for a complete holiday experience. Save this recipe to your holiday board and make it part of your holiday tradition!
