Mimosas Recipe: When it comes to brunch cocktails, nothing beats the timeless appeal of a refreshing mimosa. Light, bubbly, and citrusy, it’s the perfect drink to elevate a Sunday brunch, bridal shower, or any celebratory morning gathering.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect mimosa—ingredients, step-by-step instructions, fun variations, and expert tips to wow your guests. Whether you’re a brunch enthusiast or a complete beginner, by the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to create a flawless mimosa every time.
What is a Mimosa?
A mimosa is a simple yet elegant cocktail traditionally made with just two ingredients: sparkling wine and orange juice. It originated in the early 20th century and has since become a brunch staple worldwide. The drink is served in a champagne flute, allowing the bubbles to rise beautifully and giving off an inviting aroma. Its light alcohol content makes it enjoyable for early-day sipping without being overwhelming. Unlike heavier cocktails, mimosas strike the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and effervescent.
The name “mimosa” comes from the mimosa flower, known for its bright yellow color, which resembles the cocktail’s cheerful appearance. Today, the drink is synonymous with relaxation, indulgence, and celebration.
Why Mimosas Are Perfect for Brunch
Brunch is all about combining the best of breakfast and lunch in a leisurely, social setting. Mimosas fit right in because they are refreshing, light, and pair wonderfully with both sweet and savory dishes. Imagine sipping a cold mimosa alongside fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit platter—it just makes the entire experience feel more luxurious.
Another reason mimosas are so loved is their versatility. You can make them in large batches for a party or craft each glass individually for a more personalized touch. Plus, with endless variations, there’s always room to get creative. Whether you prefer a classic orange juice version or something more exotic like pineapple or berry, mimosas can be customized to suit any mood or menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Classic Mimosas
The Best Champagne or Sparkling Wine
The first and most important ingredient in a mimosa is sparkling wine. While many assume you need to splurge on high-end champagne, the truth is you don’t. In fact, the sweetness of orange juice pairs beautifully with affordable sparkling wines like Prosecco or Cava. The key is to choose a bottle that’s dry (brut) rather than overly sweet, as this helps balance the fruitiness of the juice.
- Champagne: Traditional and luxurious, though pricier.
- Prosecco: Light, fruity, and affordable, making it a popular choice.
- Cava: Crisp and refreshing with a great balance of flavor and cost.
When selecting your bottle, aim for something mid-range. Since it’s mixed with juice, you don’t need the finest champagne, but you still want a quality wine that complements rather than overpowers.
Fresh Orange Juice – The Key to Flavor
The second essential ingredient is orange juice. Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a world of difference compared to bottled versions. It adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a touch of tang that elevates the entire drink. If fresh oranges aren’t available, choose a high-quality, pulp-free juice with no added sugars.
For best results:
- Use fresh Valencia or navel oranges for juicing.
- Strain the juice to remove pulp for a smoother drink.
- Chill the juice before mixing to keep your mimosa crisp.
Optional Garnishes and Flavor Twists
While the classic mimosa calls for just champagne and orange juice, you can elevate your cocktail with simple garnishes and flavor twists. A fresh orange slice on the rim of the glass adds a decorative touch, while a sprig of mint brings refreshing aroma. For those who love experimenting, try adding:
- A splash of triple sec or Grand Marnier for depth.
- Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries inside the glass.
- A hint of grenadine for a layered sunrise effect.
These small additions can transform a basic mimosa into something truly special, perfect for impressing guests.
Tools and Glassware You’ll Need
Champagne Flutes vs. Other Glasses
Traditionally, mimosas are served in champagne flutes. These tall, narrow glasses aren’t just for looks—they actually serve a purpose. The shape helps preserve the bubbles, keeping your drink sparkling longer. The flute also allows you to enjoy the aromas of the champagne and orange juice blend more effectively.
That said, if you don’t have champagne flutes, don’t worry. A wine glass or even a regular glass will work in a pinch. The key is presentation—mimosas look and feel more festive in elegant glassware.
Must-Have Tools for Preparing Mimosas
Making mimosas doesn’t require fancy bartending equipment, but a few tools can make the process easier:
- Juicer – Essential if you’re using fresh oranges.
- Strainer – Helps remove pulp for a smoother juice.
- Pitcher – Useful for mixing large batches.
- Bar spoon – For gentle stirring without losing bubbles.
With just these basics, you’ll be ready to create professional-quality mimosas at home.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Mimosa
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and tools, let’s move on to the fun part—actually making the drink! Follow this step-by-step process, and you’ll have a picture-perfect mimosa in no time.
Step 1 – Chill Your Ingredients
Both the champagne and orange juice should be well-chilled before serving. Warm champagne loses its sparkle quickly, and warm juice can make the drink feel flat. Ideally, place your bottle of sparkling wine in the fridge overnight and juice your oranges a couple of hours before brunch.
Step 2 – Choose the Right Glassware
Select champagne flutes if you have them. Not only do they enhance presentation, but they also keep your drink fizzy longer. If serving a crowd, you can pre-chill the glasses in the fridge for an extra refreshing touch.
Step 3 – Pour the Champagne First
This might surprise you, but champagne should always be poured first, not the juice. Why? Because pouring champagne over orange juice can cause excessive foaming, leading to spills and wasted bubbles. Gently tilt the glass and pour about two-thirds full with champagne.
Step 4 – Add Fresh Orange Juice
Next, slowly top off the glass with fresh orange juice. The classic ratio is 1 part orange juice to 2 parts champagne, but you can adjust based on personal preference. Some like it stronger with more wine, while others enjoy a fruitier flavor with extra juice.
Step 5 – Stir Gently and Garnish
Finally, use a bar spoon to give your drink a gentle stir. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, or you’ll lose the bubbles. Add your garnish of choice—perhaps an orange slice, a sprig of mint, or a few fresh berries—and serve immediately.
And just like that, you’ve made the perfect mimosa!
Mimosa Variations You’ll Love
One of the best things about mimosas is how versatile they are. You don’t have to stick to just champagne and orange juice—you can mix and match flavors to create a drink that suits your taste or your occasion. Here are a few variations that will take your mimosa game to the next level.
Tropical Mimosa (Pineapple, Mango, or Passionfruit)
If you’re craving something exotic, swap the orange juice for tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or passionfruit. These fruits bring a sweet, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with bubbly champagne or Prosecco. Imagine sipping a pineapple mimosa at a summer brunch—it feels like you’re on vacation without leaving your home.
For an extra tropical twist, you can even add coconut water or a splash of rum (though this makes it stronger than a classic mimosa). This version is perfect for beach parties, poolside brunches, or summer weddings.
Berry Mimosa (Strawberry, Raspberry, Blueberry)
Berry mimosas are not only delicious but also stunning to look at. By blending strawberry puree or adding fresh raspberries and blueberries into the glass, you get a drink that looks festive and tastes refreshing.
- Strawberry puree gives the drink a vibrant red color.
- Blueberries and raspberries add a burst of flavor and elegance.
- A little bit of simple syrup can sweeten the drink if the berries are tart.
This variation works wonderfully for Valentine’s Day brunches, bridal showers, or any celebration where you want a pretty pink drink that tastes just as good as it looks.
Non-Alcoholic Mimosa (For Kids and Guests Who Don’t Drink)
Not everyone drinks alcohol, and that’s okay—mimosas can easily be adapted into a non-alcoholic version. Simply replace champagne with sparkling water, ginger ale, or non-alcoholic sparkling wine. The result is a fizzy, fruity drink that looks just as festive as the original but is safe for everyone to enjoy.
You can also experiment with flavored sparkling waters, like lime or berry, to add more depth. This is a great way to include kids at family brunches or guests who prefer to avoid alcohol.
Tips for Serving Mimosas at Brunch Parties
When serving mimosas for a group, a little preparation goes a long way. The presentation matters just as much as the taste, especially when entertaining guests.
How to Keep Drinks Cold Without Diluting
One mistake many people make is adding ice to their mimosas. While ice does keep drinks cold, it also waters them down, ruining the delicate balance of flavors. Instead, try these tricks:
- Chill everything ahead of time—bottles, juice, and glasses.
- Use frozen fruit like berries or orange slices instead of ice cubes. They look beautiful and keep your drink cold without diluting it.
- Keep bottles of champagne in an ice bucket filled with ice and water for easy access.
This way, your mimosas stay perfectly crisp and refreshing throughout brunch.
Preparing a Mimosa Bar for Guests
If you’re hosting a larger brunch party, a mimosa bar is a fun and interactive idea. Set up a station where guests can build their own drinks with a variety of juices and garnishes.
Here’s how to set it up:
- Sparkling Wine Options – Have a few bottles of Prosecco, Champagne, or even sparkling cider.
- Juice Variety – Orange, pineapple, cranberry, mango, peach nectar, or mixed berry.
- Fresh Fruit Garnishes – Sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, orange wedges, or mint sprigs.
- Pretty Glassware – Champagne flutes or clear cups so the colorful drinks shine through.
Not only does this give your guests the freedom to customize their drinks, but it also adds a decorative element to your brunch spread.
Pairing Mimosas with Brunch Dishes
The true magic of mimosas lies in how well they complement food. Whether you’re enjoying sweet pastries or savory egg dishes, there’s a mimosa variation that pairs perfectly.
Sweet Pairings (Pancakes, Waffles, Pastries)
Sweet dishes like pancakes, waffles, and croissants taste incredible with a crisp mimosa. The acidity of the orange juice cuts through the richness of syrups, creams, and buttery pastries, creating a balanced flavor.
For example:
- Pancakes topped with berries go beautifully with a berry mimosa.
- A cinnamon roll pairs well with a classic orange mimosa to balance sweetness.
- French toast dusted with powdered sugar tastes heavenly with a tropical pineapple mimosa.
Think of mimosas as a palate cleanser—they refresh your taste buds between bites of sweet indulgence.
Savory Pairings (Eggs, Quiche, Avocado Toast)
Mimosas aren’t just for sweet dishes—they also enhance savory brunch foods. The citrusy sparkle cuts through heavier, salty dishes, making them feel lighter.
Perfect pairings include:
- Eggs Benedict – A rich dish that pairs beautifully with a sharp, crisp mimosa.
- Quiche Lorraine – The bubbly drink refreshes your palate after each creamy, cheesy bite.
- Avocado Toast – A light and trendy brunch item that goes perfectly with fruity mimosas.
No matter what’s on your brunch table, chances are there’s a mimosa that will complement it beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mimosas
Even though mimosas are simple to make, a few common mistakes can ruin their taste and presentation. Let’s go over what to avoid so your drinks come out perfect every time.
Using Cheap Orange Juice
The juice is half the drink, so its quality matters. Avoid using overly processed or artificial orange juice with added sugars, as it can make the mimosa taste too sweet or fake. Always aim for freshly squeezed juice or high-quality store-bought juice.
Pouring the Wrong Ratio
The standard mimosa ratio is 1 part juice to 2 parts sparkling wine. Too much juice can overpower the champagne, while too little makes it too boozy for brunch. Of course, you can adjust to personal taste, but sticking close to this ratio ensures balance.
Serving Warm Champagne
Warm champagne loses its fizz quickly and makes the drink feel flat. Always serve it well-chilled. If possible, keep your champagne in the fridge until just before serving.
By avoiding these pitfalls, your mimosas will always come out crisp, refreshing, and well-balanced.
Health Benefits of Fresh Orange Juice in Mimosas
Sure, mimosas are a fun brunch treat, but did you know they also come with a few health perks—thanks to the fresh orange juice? While we don’t want to pretend mimosas are a “health drink” (they do contain alcohol, after all), the orange juice brings real nutritional benefits that make each sip a little better for you.
Vitamin C Boost
Orange juice is packed with vitamin C, which is essential for supporting your immune system, boosting energy, and helping your body absorb iron. A single glass of orange juice can give you most of your daily vitamin C needs. So while you’re sipping on that bubbly cocktail, you’re also giving your body a refreshing nutrient boost.
Vitamin C is especially great during colder months, as it helps protect against colds and flu. That means a mimosa at winter brunch could actually give you a small health edge—something you can happily mention when you go for a second glass.
Antioxidants and Refreshment
Fresh orange juice also contains antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids, which help fight free radicals in the body. These compounds support heart health, skin glow, and overall wellness. When paired with champagne, the citrusy juice cuts through alcohol’s heaviness, making the drink feel refreshing and light.
Of course, moderation is key. A mimosa should be enjoyed as a treat, but it’s nice to know that every glass carries a touch of natural goodness from the oranges.
FAQs about Mimosas Recipe
1. Can I use flavored sparkling water instead of champagne for a lighter version?
Yes! Flavored sparkling water makes a great non-alcoholic option and keeps the drink bubbly and refreshing.
2. How do I make a frozen mimosa?
Blend frozen orange juice cubes with champagne or sparkling water for a slushy-style mimosa. Perfect for hot summer days.
3. What’s the best way to garnish mimosas for a party?
Fresh fruit slices (oranges, strawberries, raspberries) and herbs like mint or rosemary not only look pretty but also add flavor.
4. Can I make mimosas with blood orange juice?
Definitely! Blood oranges give your mimosa a stunning ruby-red color and a slightly more tart flavor.
5. Are mimosas stronger than they taste?
Yes—they’re deceptively light and fruity, but champagne can sneak up on you. Enjoy responsibly, especially at morning or early afternoon brunches.
Conclusion
Mimosas aren’t just a cocktail—they’re a brunch tradition, a symbol of celebration, and the perfect balance of refreshing citrus and bubbly sparkle. Whether you stick with the classic orange juice and champagne combo or explore tropical and berry variations, mimosas can transform any brunch into a festive occasion.
With just two simple ingredients, you get a drink that’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and universally loved. By using fresh juice, the right ratio, and chilled sparkling wine, you’ll always have a mimosa that impresses.
So the next time you host brunch, remember: all you need is a bottle of bubbly, some fresh oranges, and a few creative touches to serve up joy in a glass. Cheers to that!
