Irresistible Cranberry Rosemary Prosecco Cocktail Recipe for Holidays

The sparkle of Prosecco, the tartness of cranberries, and the aromatic hint of rosemary—this cocktail is the ultimate holiday showstopper. Picture this: a bubbly drink that tastes as good as it looks, nestled in a glistening glass adorned with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. It’s festive, refreshing, and ridiculously easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a cozy Christmas dinner or a lively New Year’s bash, this cranberry-rosemary Prosecco cocktail will have your guests raving from the first sip!

I first stumbled upon this flavor combo during a holiday party years ago, and let me tell you, it was love at first sip. Over time, I’ve perfected this recipe to strike the right balance between tart, sweet, and herbal notes. And here’s the kicker: it only takes minutes to make. Trust me, this cocktail will become your go-to for every festive occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Beautiful: This cocktail is a total crowd-pleaser with its vibrant red cranberries and fresh rosemary garnish. It screams holiday cheer!
• Quick and Easy: You don’t need fancy bartending skills to make this drink. It comes together in under 10 minutes.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Serve this at your holiday party, and watch it steal the spotlight. Guests love that it’s both elegant and approachable.
• Versatile: Want to make it non-alcoholic? You can easily swap Prosecco for sparkling water or soda.
• Layers of Flavor: The tart cranberries, sweetened syrup, bubbly Prosecco, and fragrant rosemary create an unforgettable taste profile.

Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or someone who just needs a last-minute drink idea, this recipe is foolproof. It’s not just a beverage—it’s a holiday experience.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cranberry-rosemary Prosecco cocktail features simple, easy-to-source ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Prosecco: Choose a dry Prosecco for the perfect balance with the cranberry syrup. (Don’t worry about spending a fortune; budget-friendly options work beautifully.)
• Cranberry Juice: Opt for 100% cranberry juice for a tangy, natural flavor. Sweetened varieties are fine too if you prefer a sweeter cocktail.
• Fresh Cranberries: These are optional but highly recommended for garnish—they add a festive touch.
• Rosemary Sprigs: Fresh rosemary is key. It provides a subtle herbal aroma that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
• Simple Syrup: You can make your own by stirring equal parts sugar and water over low heat until dissolved. (For added flair, infuse the syrup with rosemary!)
• Ice Cubes: Keep everything chilled and refreshing.

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples or easy to grab during your next grocery run. Plus, you can tweak this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Equipment Needed

• Champagne Flutes: The classic shape of champagne flutes is perfect for showcasing the bubbles and garnishes.
• Cocktail Shaker: If you want to mix the cranberry juice and syrup together for a smoother blend.
• Small Saucepan: Needed if you’re making your own simple syrup.
• Bar Spoon: For gently stirring the ingredients in the glass without disturbing the bubbles.
• Measuring Cup: Precision is key for balancing flavors.

If you’re missing a cocktail shaker, don’t sweat it—just stir the ingredients directly in the glass. And for the saucepan, any small pot will do the trick for making simple syrup.

Preparation Method

1. Make the Simple Syrup: Combine 1 cup (200g) sugar and 1 cup (240ml) water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, about 3-5 minutes. Let it cool completely before using.
2. Optional Rosemary Infusion: For extra flavor, add a sprig of rosemary to the simple syrup while it’s still warm. Let it steep for 10 minutes before removing the rosemary.
3. Prep the Glasses: Place a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary into each champagne flute for garnish.
4. Mix the Base: In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces (60ml) cranberry juice with 1 ounce (30ml) simple syrup. Shake gently to mix.
5. Pour the Prosecco: Divide the cranberry mixture evenly between the glasses. Top each glass with Prosecco, pouring slowly to preserve the bubbles. (You’ll need about 4-5 ounces or 120-150ml per glass.)
6. Final Touch: Stir gently with a bar spoon, being careful not to flatten the bubbles. Add a few ice cubes if desired.

And that’s it—you’ve got a stunning, delicious cocktail ready to impress your guests. Cheers!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Chill Everything: Keep your Prosecco and cranberry juice refrigerated until ready to use. Cold ingredients make for a better cocktail!
• Infused Syrup: Infusing your simple syrup with rosemary adds a deeper, more complex flavor. Don’t skip this step if you have time.
• Pour Slowly: When adding Prosecco, tilt the glass slightly to preserve the bubbles and prevent overflow.
• Garnishes Matter: The cranberries and rosemary sprigs aren’t just for looks—they elevate the aroma and overall experience of the drink.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the simple syrup and cranberry juice mixture in advance to save time during the party.

These tips will help you serve up a cocktail that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious!

Variations & Adaptations

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Swap Prosecco with sparkling water or club soda for a refreshing mocktail.
• Berry Medley: Use a mix of cranberry and pomegranate juice for a sweeter, fruity twist.
• Herbal Switch: Replace rosemary with fresh thyme or mint for a different aromatic profile.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar-free simple syrup or skip it altogether for a tarter drink.
• Seasonal Garnishes: Add a slice of orange or a twist of lemon for a burst of citrus flavor.

I’ve tried swapping rosemary with thyme, and let me tell you—it’s just as delightful, especially if you love earthy flavors. Experiment and make this your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cranberry-rosemary Prosecco cocktail is best served chilled and fresh. Here are some tips:

• Serving Temperature: Keep the Prosecco and cranberry juice cold for maximum refreshment.
• Presentation: Serve in champagne flutes with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a festive touch.
• Pairings: Complement this cocktail with light appetizers like goat cheese crostini, roasted nuts, or a charcuterie board.
• Storage: If you make extra cranberry juice mixture, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Syrup: Leftover simple syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks and used for other cocktails or desserts.

While the cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, the components can be prepped ahead to save time during your holiday gatherings.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for the cranberry-rosemary Prosecco cocktail:

• Calories: Approximately 120 calories per serving.
• Sugar Content: Moderate, depending on the type of cranberry juice and syrup used.
• Low Fat: This drink is naturally fat-free.
• Health Benefits: Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C, making this a relatively guilt-free indulgence.
• Dietary Notes: This recipe can easily be adapted to be low-sugar, gluten-free, or non-alcoholic.

While it’s still a cocktail, it’s nice knowing you’re sipping on something that offers a little boost of antioxidants and festive cheer.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about a drink that’s both easy to make and utterly impressive, and this cranberry-rosemary Prosecco cocktail ticks all the boxes. It’s festive, beautiful, and delicious—a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations.

If you’re looking for a drink that sparks joy and brings a little extra sparkle to your gathering, you’ve found it! Try it out, customize it to your taste, and watch it become the star of your cocktail lineup.

I’d love to hear how your guests react to this recipe! Share your thoughts, tweaks, or even pictures in the comments below. Cheers to a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and incredible cocktails!

FAQs

Can I use champagne instead of Prosecco?

Yes! Champagne works as a great substitute, though it’s typically less sweet than Prosecco. Adjust the simple syrup if needed.

How do I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?

Simply swap out the Prosecco for sparkling water, soda water, or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. It’s just as delicious!

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

You can prep the cranberry juice and simple syrup mixture in advance, but wait to add the Prosecco until you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best way to infuse simple syrup with rosemary?

Add a sprig of rosemary to the syrup while it’s still warm, and let it steep for about 10 minutes before removing it.

What other garnishes can I use?

Try adding orange slices, pomegranate arils, or a twist of lemon peel for extra color and flavor!

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