If you’re searching for a festive, sparkling drink that’s just as gorgeous as it is delicious, let me introduce you to the secret of every great holiday brunch: How to make Cranberry Bellinis. Bursting with vibrant cranberry flavor and adorned with a pop of fizz, this cocktail is the showstopper your next gathering needs. It’s quick to make but nothing short of a conversation starter, blending sweet-tart homemade cranberry puree with bubbly prosecco for a cocktail that’s both classy and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting a party or giving your weekend breakfast a celebratory twist, this one’s guaranteed to put everyone in a bubbly mood.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to unlock the magic of these bellinis. Each component plays a starring role—prosecco for effervescence, cranberry for tart depth, and a little extra zest to round it all out. Fresh, vibrant flavors mean you’ll have a drink that looks as good as it tastes.
- Prosecco: The light, sparkling Italian wine gives your bellini those signature bubbles; go for something dry to keep the cocktail lively and crisp.
- Fresh Cranberries: Using fresh (or frozen!) cranberries for the homemade puree delivers unbeatable tartness and that iconic ruby red hue.
- Sugar: Just enough sugar tames the sharpness of the cranberries while giving your drink a smooth finish.
- Water: A splash is all you need to help the cranberries cook down into a pourable, velvety puree for the bellinis.
- Lime Juice: A squeeze brings brightness and balance, ensuring the bellinis don’t tip into overly sweet territory.
- Orange Zest (optional): For a hint of citrus complexity, fresh orange zest is pure magic swirled into the cranberry.
- Extra cranberries and rosemary sprigs (for garnish): These take your presentation from “nice” to “absolutely stunning” with zero extra effort.
How to Make How to make Cranberry Bellinis
Step 1: Create the Cranberry Puree
To start learning how to make Cranberry Bellinis, set a small saucepan over medium heat. Add your fresh (or frozen) cranberries, sugar, water, and a twist of orange zest if you like. Simmer everything together, stirring often, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Cool slightly, then blend until completely smooth, straining if you want a silkier result.
Step 2: Chill the Ingredients
There’s nothing better than a refreshingly cold bellini! Pop the prosecco and your prepared cranberry puree in the fridge. When both are well-chilled, your drink will hold its bubbles longer and taste extra crisp.
Step 3: Assemble the Bellinis
Now for the fun part—combining everything! Spoon one to two generous tablespoons of cranberry puree into the bottom of each champagne flute. Pour chilled prosecco over the top, letting it bubble and swirl with the cranberry. Gently stir or leave the pretty ombre effect—it’s up to you!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Cranberry Bellinis just before serving. Drop a few fresh cranberries into each glass and tuck in a rosemary sprig for an aromatic finishing touch. The combination is seriously eye-catching and adds a fragrant lift.
How to Serve How to make Cranberry Bellinis
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes for How to make Cranberry Bellinis, think in terms of both flavor and flair. Try a handful of whole cranberries or a delicate twirl of orange or lime peel for a little zing, plus a sprig of rosemary for that almost-piney aroma. These finishing touches not only look gorgeous but also make each sip just a bit more special.
Side Dishes
Pairing is everything—these bellinis are fabulous with brunch classics like smoked salmon toast, mini quiches, or buttery pastries. Their tartness brings a zingy contrast to richer foods, making each bite and sip feel more vibrant. They’re also lovely with a simple cheese board for an evening get-together.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to really wow your guests? Set up a DIY Bellini bar where everyone can assemble their own glass, or freeze a few cranberries in each ice cube for an extra pop of color. Serve in coupe glasses for vintage glamour or keep it classic with champagne flutes—with frosted rims dipped in sugar for a sparkling finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra cranberry puree, stash it in a covered jar or airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep beautifully for up to one week, ready to be mixed with more prosecco whenever the mood strikes.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze leftover cranberry puree! Spoon any extra into ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. When you want a bellini, just let a cube or two thaw in your glass before topping with prosecco.
Reheating
There’s hardly any reheating needed for How to make Cranberry Bellinis, but if your puree has thickened in the fridge, give it a quick zap in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to loosen it up. Be sure it’s cool before mixing into your bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cranberry juice instead of homemade puree?
While juice can work in a pinch, homemade cranberry puree gives these bellinis unmatched color and tangy depth. If substituting juice, pick an unsweetened variety and adjust sweetness to taste for best results.
What’s the best prosecco or sparkling wine to use?
Choose a dry (brut) prosecco or sparkling wine for a refreshing, not-too-sweet finish. The crisp acidity pairs perfectly with the cranberry’s tartness and keeps the cocktail lively.
Can I make How to make Cranberry Bellinis nonalcoholic?
Absolutely! Simply swap prosecco for sparkling water, club soda, or a quality nonalcoholic bubbly wine. You’ll still get all that festive fizz and flavor.
Do I need to strain the cranberry puree?
It’s up to you—straining yields a super-smooth bellini, while unstrained puree adds more rustic texture and extra cranberry goodness. For a refined look, strain before chilling.
How far in advance can I make cranberry puree for bellinis?
You can whip up the cranberry puree 3 to 5 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and well-sealed until you’re ready to shake (or stir) up your bellinis!
Final Thoughts
So if you’re ready to bring a little sparkle to your next occasion, grab your ingredients and dive into How to make Cranberry Bellinis. This simple, crowd-pleasing cocktail is a surefire way to impress—and I can’t wait for you and your friends to experience all the festive, fizzy fun in every glass!
Print
How to make Cranberry Bellinis Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brighten up any celebration with these vibrant and refreshing Cranberry Bellinis. Made with tart cranberry juice and sparkling Prosecco, these festive cocktails are perfect for toasting to special occasions or simply enjoying a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients
For the Cranberry Puree:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Bellinis:
- 1 bottle Prosecco, chilled
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Cranberry Puree: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble the Bellinis: Spoon a tablespoon of cranberry puree into the bottom of each champagne flute. Top with chilled Prosecco and gently stir to combine. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can make the cranberry puree ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the puree to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Bellini
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *