Raise a glass to this simple mimosa recipe—just two classic ingredients: champagne (or sparkling wine) and orange juice. It’s bright, fizzy, and perfect for brunch, holiday gatherings, or any celebration where you want an easy, elegant cocktail.
A Classic Mimosa Recipe
This is a true classic: a light, bubbly mix of sparkling wine and orange juice that comes together in minutes. It’s one of the easiest cocktails to make but feels special enough for a holiday brunch, baby shower, or weekend get-together.
Below you’ll find our straightforward method, professional tips for getting the best flavor and fizz, a handful of tasty variations, and serving suggestions so you can present these with confidence.
Why We Love This Mimosa
Perfect brunch cocktail: Light, refreshing, and universally appealing—mimosas are a brunch staple for a reason.
Balanced sweet and tart: Fresh orange juice provides natural sweetness and acidity while the bubbles add bright lift and a delicate bite.
Simple and elegant for entertaining: When you host, choose easy drinks that look polished—this mimosa fits the bill.
Classic Mimosa Pro Tips
- Choose your bubbly wisely: Authentic Champagne is lovely but can be pricey. Good-quality Prosecco, Cava, or other sparkling wines work beautifully and often cost less.
- Use fresh-squeezed orange juice: Fresh juice makes a noticeable difference in aroma and flavor. If you can, squeeze oranges right before serving for the brightest taste.
- Keep components separate until serving: To preserve the bubbles, keep the sparkling wine chilled on ice and pour it over the orange juice at the last moment. Offer the juice in a pitcher or carafe so guests can mix their own.
- Garnish simply: A thin orange wheel, a twist of peel, or a small sprig of fresh herbs (like rosemary for a holiday touch) makes the glass look finished.
How to Make a Mimosa
Making a mimosa is quick and straightforward—perfect for serving a crowd because each glass only takes seconds to finish.
- Add orange juice to the glass: Pour about 1.5 ounces of freshly squeezed orange juice into a chilled flute or stemless champagne glass.
- Top with sparkling wine: Carefully fill the rest of the glass with chilled champagne or sparkling wine—about 4 ounces—pouring slowly to maintain carbonation.
- Garnish and serve: Add an orange wedge or a twist of peel. Serve immediately while the bubbles are at their best.
Mimosa Variations
Want to offer variety? These simple swaps and additions keep the mimosa format but introduce seasonal or bold flavors:
- Blood Orange Mimosas: Substitute blood orange juice 1:1 for a vibrant, slightly richer citrus flavor.
- Apple Cider Mimosa: In autumn, replace orange juice with apple cider. Dip the rim in cinnamon sugar and garnish with a cinnamon stick for a cozy twist.
- Beermosa: Trade the champagne for a light wheat beer for a casual, lower-proof option.
- Cranberry Mimosa: For the holidays, use cranberry juice in place of orange juice and garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
- Make it boozier: Add an ounce of fruit liqueur—limoncello, triple sec, or pomegranate liqueur—to deepen the flavor and complexity.
Our Favorite
Stemless Flutes
Stemless champagne flutes are practical for casual gatherings: they reduce spills and feel modern while still showcasing the bubbles.
Related Cocktail Ideas
If you like mimosas, consider these other bright, fruit-forward cocktails for your next gathering: festive cranberry-based drinks, blood orange cocktails, rosemary vodka collins, and fruity mule variations. These options pair well with brunch menus and holiday spreads.
Simple Mimosa Recipe
This classic mimosa is made with just two ingredients: sparkling wine and fresh orange juice. It’s easy to scale for a crowd and perfect for special occasions and casual mornings alike.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
- 4 oz champagne or sparkling wine (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Pour the orange juice into a chilled flute or stemless champagne glass.
- Top slowly with chilled champagne or sparkling wine to preserve bubbles.
- Garnish with an orange wedge or peel and serve immediately.
Tips & Notes
- Spring: Try blood orange juice for a seasonal twist.
- Fall: Use apple cider and rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for a warm, comforting version.
- Holidays: Substitute cranberry juice and add a rosemary sprig for a festive presentation.
- Extra flavor: A splash of fruit liqueur—pomegranate liqueur, limoncello, or triple sec—gives more depth and an adult twist.
Nutrition (approximate)
Calories: 101 kcal; Carbohydrates: 5 g; Protein: 0 g; Fat: 0 g; Sugar: 4 g. Nutrition is an estimate and should be used as a guideline only.
Enjoy this simple mimosa for brunches, showers, holidays, or whenever you want an easy, elegant cocktail. Serve chilled and sip right away to enjoy the fresh citrus and lively bubbles at their best.