Cranberry Sparkler Recipe

Mix juices and syrup

In a large pitcher, combine 1 cup fresh cranberry juice, 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, 1/4 cup simple syrup, and 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice. Stir briskly until the simple syrup is fully incorporated and the mixture is homogeneous.

Chill base

Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness with up to 1 tablespoon more simple syrup if desired. Chill the base in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes if not serving immediately.

Prepare chilled sparkling and alcohol

Keep your Prosecco (or Champagne) chilled until just before serving. If using vodka, measure 4 tablespoons (about 2 ounces) and chill or keep on ice.

Combine for serving

When ready to serve, fill glasses about halfway with ice (if serving on the rocks). Pour 1/2 cup of the chilled cranberry-orange base into each glass (this recipe makes about 4 servings). Top each glass with 1/2 cup (about 4 ounces) chilled Prosecco. If using vodka, add 1/2 tablespoon (about 3/4 teaspoon) — alternatively stir 1 tablespoon per glass for a noticeable kick — or mix the total vodka into the pitcher before topping with sparkling wine.

Garnish and serve

Garnish each glass with a few fresh cranberries, an orange slice or twist, and a mint sprig. For a festive touch, thread cranberries on a small cocktail pick and rest across the rim. Serve immediately so the sparkling remains bubbly.

Non-alcoholic variation: Replace the Prosecco with an equal amount of chilled sparkling water or ginger ale and omit the vodka. Proceed with the same assembly and garnish.