Picture yourself cozied up with friends on a crisp fall morning, a sparkling glass in hand—this Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa is the absolute embodiment of autumn in a flute. The combination of tart cranberry, sweet apple cider, a little fizz, and a whisper of cinnamon creates a festive drink that’s as gorgeous to look at as it is delightfully refreshing. Let’s shake up your brunch game with a cocktail that’s sure to be requested again and again.

Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes the Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa so magical is the way its handful of simple ingredients combine for a truly memorable sip. Each element adds something special, whether it’s flavor, fizz, or that all-important pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cranberry Juice: This brings a festive ruby hue and tangy kick to balance the sweetness in your glass.
Champagne or Sparkling Cider: For bubbles and a touch of sophistication—swap for sparkling cider to make it family-friendly!
Apple Cider: Adds cozy fall sweetness and depth; choose the freshest you can find for the ultimate aroma.
Cinnamon: Just a sprinkle hovers beautifully on the surface and delivers a hint of warming spice.
Fresh Apple Slices: Look for a firm, crisp apple; these become a built-in snack and an edible stir stick.
Fresh Cranberries: These jewels float prettily and lend a burst of tartness that’s so refreshing.
Cinnamon Sticks: Not just a garnish—these really amp up the aroma each time you take a sip.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Start by dropping a couple of crisp apple slices and a good handful of fresh cranberries into your glass. Not only do they look stunning, but they infuse the drink with ever-so-slight hints of tart and sweet as they mingle with the liquid. Using a tall flute or stemmed wine glass works perfectly for presentation and the gentle release of bubbles.

Step 2: Add the Cinnamon

Next, sprinkle in just a dash of cinnamon over the fruit. This is your ticket to that dreamy autumn flavor. Even just a small pinch will perfume the drink from top to bottom and give every sip a slightly spiced warmth without overpowering the freshness.

Step 3: Pour in the Juices

Measure out your cranberry juice and apple cider, then pour both right into the glass. The duo creates a wonderful balance—apple cider for smooth sweetness, cranberry juice for vibrancy and a pop of tartness. It’s already looking and smelling festive at this point!

Step 4: Top with Bubbles

Now for the showstopper: top the glass off with chilled champagne for an elegant sparkle, or grab sparkling cider if you’d like a non-alcoholic option. Either way, pour slowly to let the bubbles dance up through the fruit and stir everything together gently—you want to mix, not fizz out all those precious bubbles.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa by nestling a cinnamon stick into each glass. This makes for a festive presentation and doubles as a fragrant swizzle stick. Serve immediately, while it’s cold and effervescent, ready to enchant your guests at first sip!

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa

Garnishes

The beauty of a Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa lies in those finishing touches. Go big on garnish: think extra apple slices fanned out on the rim, a smattering of whole cranberries bobbing atop the bubbles, and, of course, a cinnamon stick standing tall. Not only do these accents make each glass look utterly inviting, they add aroma and subtle flavor as you sip.

Side Dishes

This sparkling mimosa pairs fabulously with classic brunch dishes—imagine sipping alongside cinnamon French toast, an herby quiche, or buttery croissants. For something a bit heartier, serve with a sharp cheddar cheese board or maple-glazed bacon. The drink’s bold flavors can stand up to a variety of savory and sweet plates, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa into a party showpiece by serving it in a big-batch pitcher or punch bowl if you’re entertaining a crowd. Set up a DIY mimosa bar with bowls of sliced apples, fresh cranberries, and optional cinnamon-sugar for rimming the glasses—let everyone garnish their own for an interactive touch. Adding edible flowers or star anise pods can take your presentation up another festive notch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa after your brunch, don’t fret—you can refrigerate the leftovers. Simply cover the glass or pitcher tightly to keep the fizz as fresh as possible. It’s best enjoyed within a few hours for maximum sparkle, but the flavors will still be delicious even as the bubbles fade.

Freezing

While the mimosa isn’t suited for classic freezing due to the carbonated base, you can get creative: freeze any leftover juice and fruit mixture in ice cube trays. Use those cubes to chill future batches without watering them down, or even blend them for a slushy-style mimosa treat!

Reheating

Since this cocktail is based on bubbly and fresh juice, it’s not meant to be reheated. However, if you love the flavor combination, try gently warming just the apple cider, cranberry juice, and cinnamon together for a cozy, non-alcoholic cider spin—and save the fizz for when you’re sipping cold!

FAQs

Can I make the Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa in advance for a party?

Yes! You can prep the cranberries, apple slices, and the juice mixture up to a day ahead. Store them together in the fridge, then add your champagne or sparkling cider right before serving to keep things nice and bubbly.

What’s the best champagne or sparkling cider to use?

Any dry (brut) champagne or prosecco is wonderful, as it balances the sweetness of the juices. For non-alcoholic celebrations, any good quality sparkling apple cider will work—choose something with natural ingredients and not overly sweet for the most refreshing results.

Can I use bottled apple juice instead of cider for this recipe?

While apple juice can be used in a pinch, true apple cider (especially fresh, unfiltered types) will deliver a deeper, richer flavor and a more authentic autumn feel to your Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa.

How can I make this drink extra special for holidays?

Dress up your mimosa with gold-rimmed glasses, use star-shaped apple slices, or freeze cranberries in ice cubes for a festive look. For a crowd-pleasing punch, float orange slices and a few cloves in the pitcher.

Is there a way to make a sugar-free version?

Absolutely! Opt for unsweetened cranberry juice and apple cider, or check for low-sugar sparkling ciders. The natural sweetness from the apples and fruit should shine through—you can always add a drop of honey or a sugared rim if you miss the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa enough—it’s festive, simple, and brimming with cozy flavors. Whether you’re making brunch extra special or toasting to the holidays, this drink adds sparkle to any occasion. Gather your ingredients, pour yourself a glass, and savor a taste of fall magic with every bubbly sip!