Cranberry Blush Sparkler Recipe

Name: Cranberry Blush Sparkler
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: ice; 1 fluid ounce vodka; 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce; 1/2 fluid ounce lime juice; 1/2 fluid ounce simple syrup; 4 fluid ounces Rosé Champagne; 3 fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)

This festive cocktail combines tart cranberry sauce with the refreshing taste of champagne, perfect for a celebration or a holiday gathering. Here's how you can make it:

Ingredients

Ice, as needed
1 fluid ounce vodka
2 tablespoons cranberry sauce
1/2 fluid ounce lime juice
1/2 fluid ounce simple syrup
4 fluid ounces rose champagne (or more, to taste)
3 fresh cranberries, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
Add the vodka, cranberry sauce, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10 to 15 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a coupe glass or champagne flute.
Top the drink with rose champagne, adjusting the amount to your taste.
Garnish with fresh cranberries, if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	246
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	10mg
Total Carbohydrate	25g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	19g
Protein	0g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	15mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	114mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available nutrient data.

The Cranberry Blush Sparkler is a delightful cocktail that has quickly become a favorite for celebratory occasions. Combining the tartness of cranberry with the effervescence of champagne, it offers a perfect balance of flavor that appeals to many. Its simple yet elegant presentation makes it ideal for various events, from casual gatherings to more formal festivities.

History of the Cranberry Blush Sparkler

The Cranberry Blush Sparkler is a modern variation of classic festive cocktails that often incorporate cranberry, especially during the holiday season. While cranberry has long been a symbol of fall and winter, particularly in North America, this cocktail blends traditional flavors with the sophistication of sparkling wine. It first gained popularity as bartenders sought to create seasonal drinks that could offer a unique twist on traditional cocktails like the cranberry mojito or champagne cocktails. Today, the Cranberry Blush Sparkler is considered a go-to drink for New Years Eve, Thanksgiving, and Christmas parties.

Regional Variations

As with many cocktails, the Cranberry Blush Sparkler has regional adaptations. In the United States, it's often made with ros champagne, giving it a slight fruity sweetness that complements the cranberry sauce. In other parts of the world, variations may include the use of different sparkling wines or the addition of other fruits like orange or apple to enhance the flavor profile. Some variations also substitute cranberry sauce for cranberry juice for a lighter version of the drink.

How It Differs from Similar Drinks

Compared to similar cocktails, such as the classic cranberry mimosa or the traditional champagne cocktail, the Cranberry Blush Sparkler stands out due to its use of cranberry sauce instead of juice. The sauce adds a richer, more complex cranberry flavor, making the drink feel more like a dessert cocktail. Additionally, the slight tartness from lime juice and the sweetness from simple syrup add a more balanced taste, which is less sugary than other cranberry-based drinks. This makes the Cranberry Blush Sparkler a more sophisticated option for those seeking a refined cocktail experience.

Where It's Typically Served

The Cranberry Blush Sparkler is commonly served at festive events, particularly those during the winter holidays. It's a popular choice for New Years Eve parties, Christmas dinners, Thanksgiving gatherings, and even weddings. The vibrant pink color of the drink and the festive touch of fresh cranberries as garnish make it a visually stunning cocktail, ideal for celebrations. It can be served in champagne flutes, coupe glasses, or even more casual tumblers, depending on the occasion's vibe.

Fun Facts About the Cranberry Blush Sparkler

The combination of cranberry and champagne in cocktails is thought to have originated as early as the 1800s, but the modern twist with cranberry sauce is a more recent invention.
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which is one of the reasons they are so popular in festive cocktails. Aside from their tartness, they are also believed to have health benefits, such as supporting urinary tract health.
The Ros Champagne used in this cocktail adds a touch of elegance. Unlike traditional champagne, which is often more dry, ros champagne offers a fruitier taste that complements the cranberry's tartness.
Although the Cranberry Blush Sparkler is often considered a winter holiday drink, it can easily be enjoyed year-round by substituting fresh cranberries with other seasonal fruits, such as pomegranate or raspberry.

FAQ about Cranberry Blush Sparkler Recipe

This cocktail is best prepared fresh, as the carbonation from the champagne can lose its fizz if stored for too long. However, you can mix the vodka, cranberry sauce, lime juice, and simple syrup ahead of time, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add the champagne and ice just before pouring.

Yes, you can substitute rosé champagne with any sparkling wine or champagne, such as Prosecco, Brut, or even sparkling cider for a non-alcoholic option. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may change depending on the choice of wine.

If you have leftover cranberry sauce, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.

Yes, you can substitute simple syrup with other sweeteners like agave syrup, honey, or maple syrup. Adjust the amount to taste as these alternatives can vary in sweetness.

This cocktail is best served immediately after preparation. The carbonation from the champagne will lose its effervescence if stored. If you must store it, place the drink in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator, but note that the quality may degrade quickly, especially within 1–2 hours.

Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic version by omitting the vodka and champagne. Instead, use a non-alcoholic sparkling wine or club soda. The cranberry sauce and lime juice will still give the drink a deliciously festive flavor.

The cocktail is traditionally garnished with fresh cranberries. You can either drop them directly into the drink or skewer them with a cocktail pick for a decorative touch.

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries for garnish. They can add a chilled effect to the drink, but be aware they won't float as easily as fresh cranberries. For a creative twist, you can freeze them in ice cubes before using them as a garnish.