Cranberry Orange Prosecco Punch is a festive and refreshing drink that combines bubbly Prosecco with the zesty brightness of fresh oranges and the tart sweetness of cranberries. It’s a sparkling punch that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any celebration where you want something light and fun in a glass.
I love making this punch because it’s so easy and looks beautiful with those floating orange slices and cranberries bobbing on top. The mix of flavors hits just the right balance—fruity, a little tangy, and sparkling all at once. Plus, it’s a great way to make a party feel extra special without spending too much time behind the bar.
My favorite way to serve this punch is in a big glass bowl or pitcher with plenty of ice, so everyone can help themselves. Sometimes I add a sprig of fresh rosemary for a little extra color and aroma, which always gets compliments. It’s one of those drinks that keeps people chatting and smiling, and I find myself coming back for seconds more often than I’d like to admit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Juice: Use pure cranberry juice for a nice tart flavor. If you prefer less tartness, try a cranberry juice cocktail or mix cranberry with apple juice.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a big difference in brightness. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice works fine but may be sweeter.
Simple Syrup: This adds sweetness, but you can use honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup as alternatives. Adjust to your taste.
Prosecco: A dry sparkling wine is best. You can substitute champagne or any sparkling white wine if needed.
Fresh Cranberries & Orange Slices: These add pretty color and a fresh taste. Frozen cranberries work, too, and they can also chill the punch.
How Do I Keep the Punch Fizzy and Fresh When Serving?
The key to keeping your punch bubbly and fresh is when and how you add the Prosecco and the ice.
- Mix all juices and sweetener first, chilling this base well.
- Add Prosecco right before serving to keep bubbles from fading.
- Use ice cubes separately in the punch bowl or individual glasses rather than mixing ice into the whole punch to avoid dilution.
- Gently stir the punch after adding Prosecco—too much stirring will reduce the fizz.
- Keep the punch bowl in the fridge or serve in small batches to maintain freshness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pitcher or punch bowl – I like using a wide bowl so everyone can serve themselves easily.
- Measuring cups – helps get the juice and syrup quantities just right.
- Stirring spoon – for mixing everything smoothly without losing bubbles.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to slice the orange thinly for looks and flavor.
- Glassware – use champagne flutes or wine glasses for a classy touch.
- Ice bucket or tray – keep your ice cold and ready to serve without watering down the punch too early.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Fresh Herbs: Add a sprig of rosemary or mint for a fragrant twist that pairs well with the citrus.
- Other Fruits: Toss in sliced apples, pomegranate seeds, or fresh strawberries for extra color and flavor.
- Different Sparkling Wines: Try sparkling rosé or cava for a different bubbly experience.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of ginger liqueur to warm up the flavors.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Prosecco Punch
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups cranberry juice
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
- 1/2 cup simple syrup (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 1 bottle (750 ml) chilled Prosecco
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This punch comes together in about 10 minutes! You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the juices and syrup, adding fresh fruit, and then just a moment to pour in the Prosecco before serving. Chilling the juices ahead of time is a nice touch but not necessary.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Juices and Sweetener:
In a large pitcher or punch bowl, pour in the cranberry juice, orange juice, and simple syrup. Stir everything together well so the flavors blend nicely.
2. Add Fresh Fruit:
Drop in the fresh cranberries and orange slices to give your punch a festive look and a bit of extra flavor.
3. Pour in the Prosecco:
Right before you’re ready to serve, gently add the chilled Prosecco to the punch. Stir it lightly to mix but try not to stir too much, so the bubbles stay lively.
4. Chill and Serve:
Add ice cubes to help keep your punch cold, or chill the juice mixture beforehand to avoid watering it down. Pour the punch into glasses, making sure each glass gets some cranberries and an orange slice. Cheers to a sparkling, delicious treat!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work great and can help chill the punch too. Just add them straight from the freezer—they’ll add a lovely festive touch as they float and keep the drink cool.
How Can I Make This Punch Non-Alcoholic?
Simply substitute the Prosecco with sparkling water, club soda, or a non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice. This keeps the bubbly feel while making it family-friendly.
Can I Prepare This Punch Ahead of Time?
You can mix the cranberry juice, orange juice, and simple syrup up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Add the Prosecco, fresh fruit, and ice just before serving for best fizz and freshness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover punch (without Prosecco) in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add fresh Prosecco and ice when you’re ready to serve again.