This Cranberry Sunrise Mocktail is a beautiful, layered drink that captures the colors of a sunrise in every glass—deep red cranberry blending into golden-orange juice with a fizzy sparkle on top. It’s tangy, sweet, and refreshing, making it perfect for brunches, festive parties, or cozy evenings when you want something elegant without alcohol. The cranberry gives a tart pop, the orange adds sweetness, and the subtle fizz ties it all together for a perfectly balanced mocktail that tastes as stunning as it looks.
2. Ingredients
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1 cup chilled cranberry juice (100% juice or cranberry blend)
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½ cup chilled orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
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1 tablespoon grenadine syrup (for color and sweetness)
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½ cup sparkling water or club soda
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1 tablespoon honey or simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
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Ice cubes
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Orange slices and fresh cranberries (for garnish)
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Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
3. Instructions
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Prepare the glasses:
Fill each glass with ice cubes. The ice helps create the layered “sunrise” look when the juices are poured in. -
Add the cranberry base:
Pour cranberry juice into the glass first. If you want a slightly sweeter drink, stir in a teaspoon of honey or simple syrup at this stage. -
Add the orange layer:
Slowly pour the orange juice over the back of a spoon so it gently floats on top of the cranberry layer. This creates a beautiful red-to-orange gradient that looks just like a sunrise. -
Add grenadine for color:
Carefully drizzle grenadine syrup along the inside of the glass. It will sink to the bottom and deepen the red layer for that signature sunrise effect. -
Top with fizz:
Add a splash of sparkling water or club soda for a light sparkle. Stir gently if you prefer the colors to blend a little. -
Garnish and serve:
Add a slice of orange, a few fresh cranberries, and a mint leaf on top. Serve immediately while chilled and fizzy.
4. Preparation Time
Total: 10 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
5. Serving
Makes 2 servings
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 95 kcal
Protein: 0.5 g
Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Sugar: 20 g
7. Tips
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Layering trick: Use lots of ice and pour slowly for distinct color layers.
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Make it sparkle: You can replace sparkling water with lemon-lime soda for a sweeter, fizzy touch.
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Fresh juice wins: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor and a richer golden color.
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For parties: Mix the cranberry and orange juices in a pitcher, then pour over grenadine in each glass just before serving for that perfect sunrise look.
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Add flair: Garnish with sugared cranberries or a twist of orange peel for a fancy touch.
8. Final Thought
The Cranberry Sunrise Mocktail is more than just a drink—it’s a visual and flavor experience. With its bright citrus notes, tart cranberry base, and eye-catching color gradient, it’s a cheerful mocktail that fits any occasion. Each sip delivers a burst of freshness and festive flavor, making it a crowd favorite at both casual gatherings and holiday tables.
