Introduction
Picture this: a crisp autumn morning, leaves crunching underfoot, and the aroma of sweet apple cider mingling with warm cinnamon filling the air. That’s exactly what you get with this Cozy Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa. The first time I made it, I was hosting a casual brunch with friends, and let me tell you, everyone was smitten. One sip, and it was like drinking fall itself—a perfect blend of tart cranberry, spiced apple, and bubbly goodness.
Honestly, this recipe came to me while I was experimenting with some leftover cranberry juice and apple cider from a holiday dinner. I thought, “Why not marry the flavors?”—and boy, was that a good idea. It’s now my go-to drink for autumn gatherings, whether it’s Thanksgiving brunch or just a cozy evening by the fire. My family loves it so much that they’ve started calling it “a hug in a glass.”
You know those recipes that just feel like they were made for Pinterest boards? This mimosa is one of them. It’s festive, easy to make, and the garnishes—frosted cranberries and cinnamon sticks—make it look as stunning as it tastes. Bookmark this recipe, because once you try it, you’ll be making it all season long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients already in your kitchen.
- Festive Flair: The combination of apple, cranberry, and cinnamon screams fall and holiday vibes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with both adults and kids (just swap the champagne for sparkling water for a kid-friendly version).
- Beautiful Presentation: Frosted cranberries and cinnamon sticks make it Instagram and Pinterest-worthy.
What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors—tart cranberry juice, sweet apple cider, and the warm spice of cinnamon. Plus, the bubbly champagne adds a celebratory touch. It’s not just good; it’s the kind of drink that makes you want to slow down and savor the season. Whether you’re hosting brunch, a holiday party, or just want a special treat for yourself, this mimosa delivers joy in every sip.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple, seasonal ingredients to create a cozy and festive drink that’s perfect for fall. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Apple cider: Use fresh, spiced apple cider for the best flavor (store-bought works too).
- Cranberry juice: Opt for 100% cranberry juice for a tart kick.
- Champagne: Choose a dry or semi-sweet champagne. Prosecco works well too.
- Cinnamon sticks: For garnish and a subtle spice infusion.
- Fresh cranberries: Optional, but they make a stunning garnish.
- Sugar: For frosted cranberries (optional, but highly recommended).
- Ice: To keep your mimosa chilled.
If you’re missing any of these ingredients, don’t worry—this recipe is super adaptable. For example, you can swap champagne with sparkling water or ginger ale for a non-alcoholic version, or use pomegranate juice instead of cranberry juice.
Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this festive fall drink:
- Champagne flutes: For serving (or any glassware you love).
- Mixing pitcher: Optional, but handy for combining the juices.
- Measuring cups: To get the perfect ratios.
- Small bowl: For coating the cranberries in sugar.
- Ice cube tray: For chilling the drink.
No fancy equipment is needed, which makes this recipe even more approachable. If you don’t have champagne flutes, wine glasses or mason jars work just as well!
Preparation Method
- Chill the Ingredients: Place the champagne, apple cider, and cranberry juice in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before making the mimosa.
- Prepare Frosted Cranberries: In a small bowl, toss fresh cranberries with a bit of sugar to coat. Set them aside for garnish.
- Combine the Juices: In a mixing pitcher, stir together 1 cup of apple cider and 1 cup of cranberry juice.
- Pour Champagne: Fill each champagne flute about halfway with the juice mixture.
- Top with Champagne: Slowly pour champagne into the flutes, filling them to the brim.
- Add Garnish: Drop a few frosted cranberries into each glass and place a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy, bubbly goodness!
Pro tip: If you’re making these for a crowd, prepare the juice mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just pour and garnish when ready to serve.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
- Chill Everything: Cold ingredients are key to a refreshing mimosa. Don’t skip the chilling step!
- Pour Slowly: When adding champagne, pour slowly to avoid losing the bubbles.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh apple cider and cranberries elevate the flavor and presentation.
- Don’t Overdo the Sugar: While frosted cranberries look gorgeous, too much sugar can overpower the drink’s natural flavors.
- Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the cider-to-juice ratio based on your taste preference—more apple cider for sweetness or more cranberry juice for tartness.
Variations & Adaptations
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace champagne with sparkling water or ginger ale for a kid-friendly and alcohol-free option.
- Seasonal Twist: Swap cranberry juice with pomegranate juice for a festive holiday variation.
- Add a Citrus Kick: Squeeze a bit of fresh orange juice or add an orange slice for extra brightness.
- Spiced Version: Infuse the cider with cloves and star anise for a deeper spice profile.
- Sweeten It Up: Add a splash of maple syrup or honey if you prefer a sweeter drink.
My favorite variation? Adding a dash of vanilla extract to the juice mixture—it gives the drink a dessert-like quality that’s perfect for holiday evenings.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These mimosas are best served chilled, right after preparation. Here are a few tips:
- Serving Temperature: Serve cold for the most refreshing experience. You can add ice to the glasses if needed.
- Presentation: Use clear glasses to show off the beautiful colors and garnishes. Place frosted cranberries and cinnamon sticks in each glass for a seasonal touch.
- Storage: If you have leftover juice mixture, store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Don’t mix with champagne until ready to serve.
- Reheating: This drink doesn’t require reheating, but if you want a warm version, use the juice mixture alone and heat it gently on the stove before serving.
As the flavors sit, they blend beautifully, so the juice mixture can actually taste even better the next day!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 120 per glass.
- Vitamin C: Cranberry juice and apple cider are rich in vitamin C, which supports immunity.
- Low Fat: This drink is naturally low in fat.
- Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free and dairy-free.
- Allergens: None, unless garnishes are cross-contaminated.
Moderation is key with champagne, but the base juices bring a touch of healthy antioxidants to your glass.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a drink that captures the essence of fall in every sip, this Cozy Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa is it. With its warm spices, crisp fruit flavors, and bubbly cheer, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite. Whether served at a holiday brunch or enjoyed on a quiet evening, this recipe is versatile and endlessly delightful.
Cheers to cozy, delicious moments and making fall even more magical!
FAQs
Can I make this mimosa ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix the apple cider and cranberry juice in advance and store it in the fridge. Add champagne and garnishes right before serving.
What can I use instead of champagne?
For a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling water, ginger ale, or even sparkling apple cider.
Can I use bottled apple cider?
Yes, bottled apple cider works perfectly. If you can find a spiced version, it adds even more flavor.
How do I make frosted cranberries?
Toss fresh cranberries in sugar until coated. Let them sit for a few minutes to set, then use them as a garnish.
Can I serve this warm?
Yes, the juice mixture alone can be gently heated on the stove for a warm version of this drink—skip the champagne and serve it in mugs instead.
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Cozy Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Mimosa
A festive fall drink combining tart cranberry juice, sweet apple cider, warm cinnamon, and bubbly champagne for a cozy and refreshing experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Drink
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup cranberry juice (100% cranberry juice)
- Champagne (dry or semi-sweet)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
- Sugar (for frosted cranberries, optional)
- Ice (for chilling)
Instructions
- Chill the champagne, apple cider, and cranberry juice in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare frosted cranberries by tossing fresh cranberries with sugar in a small bowl. Set aside for garnish.
- In a mixing pitcher, stir together 1 cup of apple cider and 1 cup of cranberry juice.
- Fill each champagne flute halfway with the juice mixture.
- Slowly pour champagne into the flutes, filling them to the brim.
- Drop a few frosted cranberries into each glass and place a cinnamon stick for garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
[‘Chill all ingredients for a refreshing mimosa.’, ‘Pour champagne slowly to preserve bubbles.’, ‘Adjust the cider-to-juice ratio based on taste preference.’, ‘For a non-alcoholic version, replace champagne with sparkling water or ginger ale.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 28
Keywords: fall drink, mimosa recipe, apple cranberry mimosa, festive drink, holiday cocktail



