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This festive Poinsettia Cocktail is the perfect drink for holiday parties or intimate winter gatherings. Its vibrant ruby hue, bright flavors, and sparkling finish make it a joyous way to celebrate. Over the years, it has become a tradition at our family Christmas brunch, always setting the tone for a cheerful day.
The first time I made this was during a snowy New Year’s Eve. It was an instant hit with my friends, who loved its beautiful presentation and the delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- Cranberry juice ½ cup: This gives the cocktail its signature deep red color and tartness. Opt for 100 percent juice for the best flavor.
- Orange juice 2 tablespoons: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the drink and balances the acidity of the cranberry juice.
- Prosecco or champagne: Chilled sparkling wine adds light fruity bubbles for a celebratory feel.
- Fresh cranberries: These make a lovely festive garnish that floats beautifully.
- Orange slice or twist: Optional but adds a fragrant citrus aroma.
How To Make Poinsettia Cocktail
- Chill your glassware:
- Place champagne flutes in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This ensures your drink stays cold and refreshing.
- Add cranberry juice:
- Pour ½ cup cranberry juice into each chilled flute. Be precise, as this creates the cocktail's vibrant base.
- Add orange juice:
- Gently pour 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice into the glass. Take care not to mix, letting the layers form naturally.
- Top with prosecco or champagne:
- Slowly pour chilled Prosecco or champagne into the glass until it reaches the rim. The sparkling bubbles carry the aromas upward.
- Garnish and serve:
- Add a few fresh cranberries and an orange twist for a festive flourish. Serve immediately to enjoy the bubbles at their peak.
Cranberry juice is my personal favorite in this recipe. Its tartness offsets the sweetness of Prosecco perfectly. One Christmas, my grandmother mistook this for regular juice—her reaction was priceless, and we laugh about it every year.
Storage Tips
It’s best to prepare the cocktail fresh to preserve the fizz. However, you can pre-chill the juices and Prosecco ahead of time for easy assembly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap Prosecco with any sparkling wine of your choice or even non-alcoholic sparkling options for a booze-free twist. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, try pomegranate seeds as a garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cocktail alongside a cheese board or light canapés. It also pairs wonderfully with sweet treats like dark chocolate truffles or shortbread cookies.
Cultural Context
The Poinsettia Cocktail, named after the traditional holiday flower, symbolizes celebration and joy. It’s a popular choice at winter events, bringing festive cheer in every glass.
This festive cocktail is sure to become a centerpiece of your holiday memories. Its ease of preparation and striking appearance make it a must-try for your next celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cranberry juice works best?
100% cranberry juice is ideal for its tart and rich flavor, but you can use a blend if you prefer a sweeter note.
- → Can I substitute Prosecco with champagne?
Yes, both Prosecco and champagne work well. Prosecco offers a lighter, fruitier flavor, while champagne provides a more robust profile.
- → Is fresh orange juice necessary?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but store-bought can work in a pinch.
- → What garnishes can I use?
Festive options include fresh cranberries and a twist of orange peel or an orange slice for added color and aroma.
- → Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
It's best to prepare the drink just before serving to maintain the bubbles from the Prosecco or champagne.