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This festive Cranberry Sauce Spritz reimagines classic Thanksgiving cranberry sauce as a bright and bubbly cocktail. It strikes the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it a delightful option for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a refreshing drink with a seasonal twist.
I first crafted this spritz at a Friendsgiving, and it quickly became the hit of the night. Now I make it whenever I want a cocktail with a festive flair without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Cranberry juice cocktail: provides the tart base choose a variety with natural cranberry flavor for best taste
- Gin: adds herbal notes to balance the sweetness a classic London dry gin works beautifully here
- Whole berry cranberry sauce: brings texture and rich cranberry flavor store-bought brands work well and save time but homemade is lovely if you have leftovers
- Ice: keeps the drink chilled without diluting the flavors too quickly
- Club soda: adds fizzy lightness without extra sweetness opt for a high-quality brand
- Prosecco: contributes effervescence and subtle fruit notes chilled prosecco makes the spritz feel elegant
- Orange peel: is a bright, citrus garnish that complements cranberry’s tartness
- Freshly grated nutmeg: lends a warm spicy aroma that makes this cocktail holiday-ready
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Spoon and Stir:
- In a wine glass, combine cranberry juice cocktail gin and whole berry cranberry sauce. Use a spoon to stir gently but thoroughly until the sauce is evenly mixed with the liquids. This ensures every sip has consistent flavor. Then add plenty of ice to fill the glass and chill the drink quickly.
- Add the Bubbles:
- Slowly pour club soda and prosecco on top of the cranberry mixture. The gentle fizz should mingle with the tart cranberry notes creating a refreshing spritz. Avoid stirring after adding bubbles to preserve the effervescence.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Finish by twisting an orange peel over the glass to release its oils then dropping it in. Grate a small pinch of fresh nutmeg on top for aroma and a festive touch. Serve immediately while fizzy and cold.
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I love using whole berry cranberry sauce here because the texture adds an interesting mouthfeel. One Thanksgiving, my guests were so surprised by how well the cocktail captured classic holiday flavors they kept requesting refills. It’s a simple yet memorable way to bring cranberry sauce out of the gravy shadow.
Storage Tips
If you want to prep ahead, mix cranberry juice gin and sauce in a sealed container and chill. Add ice club soda prosecco and garnish just before serving for best bubbles. Leftover prepared spritz loses fizz quickly so best enjoyed fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Try vodka instead of gin for a more neutral base
- Use sparkling wine other than prosecco if you prefer; cava or champagnes work well
- Swap orange peel for a lemon twist if you want brighter citrus notes or a cinnamon stick for extra warmth
Serving Suggestions
- This spritz pairs wonderfully with salty appetizers like cheese and crackers or roasted nuts
- Serve it alongside turkey sliders or small bites at your Friendsgiving for a festive drink option
- Garnishing with fresh cranberries or a rosemary sprig can add visual appeal and aroma
Cultural Context
Cranberry sauce has long been a staple of Thanksgiving in the United States, celebrating the autumn harvest. Turning it into a spritz riffs on traditional cocktail trends that highlight seasonal ingredients and local flavors to elevate classic dishes and drinks. This is part of a larger movement to make holiday meals more playful and interactive.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use homemade cranberry sauce for this spritz?
Yes, homemade cranberry sauce works wonderfully and can add a personalized touch to the spritz’s flavor profile.
- → What is the role of prosecco in this spritz?
Prosecco provides a light, bubbly texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the tart cranberry and botanical notes in the gin.
- → How can I garnish this spritz for extra flavor?
Adding fresh orange peel and a sprinkle of grated nutmeg enhances the aroma and introduces warm, citrusy undertones.
- → Is this drink suitable for Thanksgiving celebrations?
Its vibrant cranberry and herbal notes make it a festive and refreshing choice for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering.
- → Can I make this spritz in advance?
Mix the cranberry sauce, juice, and gin ahead of time, but add prosecco, club soda, and garnishes just before serving to maintain fizz and freshness.