This sparkling little number has become my secret weapon for spreading holiday cheer in a glass! Whether you’re toasting with your in-laws by the fire or clinking glasses during a virtual cocktail hour with friends, this Sparkling Pomegranate Christmas Spritz is equal parts festive and refreshing. And bonus—there’s a kid-friendly version too, so everyone can join the celebration!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spritz quickly became a holiday staple in our house one Christmas Eve when I had a fridge full of juice, a chilled bottle of Prosecco, and zero interest in a fussy cocktail. The colors, the aroma, the fizz—instant holiday magic!
- Festive & Flavorful: Tart pomegranate, citrusy notes, and hints of rosemary evoke all the holiday vibes.
- Two Versions: Boozy or booze-free, both are completely delicious.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the juice base early and finish with a pour of bubbles.
- Easy to Scale: Make it by the glass or build a pitcher for a crowd.
- Gorgeous Garnishes: A sprig of rosemary and a few floating arils make this a real show-off drink.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 cup (240 ml) chilled Prosecco or sparkling grape juice
- 2/3 cup (160 ml) chilled 100% pomegranate juice
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) chilled sparkling water
- Optional: 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses or grenadine (for depth and color)
Pro Tips
- Chill Everything: Cold juice means better fizz. Let your ingredients hang out in the fridge several hours before serving.
- Pomegranate Molasses: Adds rich sweetness and a darker hue—great for dramatic flair!
- Garnishes Matter: Add a rosemary sprig, a handful of pomegranate arils, and a slice of orange to dress it up.
- Sweet Tooth? Add 1–2 teaspoons simple syrup to the non-alcoholic version if your juice is extra tart.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chill all ingredients thoroughly before starting—especially anything fizzy!
- Fill each of four glasses with ice to the brim.
- In each glass, pour 40 ml (about 2 tablespoons) pomegranate juice and 20 ml (about 1 tablespoon) sparkling water. If you’re using pomegranate molasses or grenadine, whisk it into the juice before pouring.
- Top with 60 ml (about 1/4 cup) chilled Prosecco (or sparkling grape juice for the non-alcoholic version).
- Give the drink a gentle stir to combine—you want a swirl, not a stir-fry.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary, a few pomegranate arils, and an orange twist or wheel. Add a star anise pod or cinnamon stick for cozy vibes, if desired.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Premix the Fizz: Always add Prosecco or sparkling juice last to keep the sparkle strong.
- Layer With Care: Pour the bubbly slowly over a spoon to help keep the fizz when building by the glass.
- Garnish Just Before Serving: Citrus and herbs are prettiest (and most fragrant) when freshly added.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Make It a Pitcher: Multiply ingredients for however many people you’re serving. Mix pomegranate juice and optional molasses ahead, then top glasses with fizz before serving.
- Holiday Brunch: Serve with a rosemary-cheddar strata or cranberry-orange scones.
- Mocktail Magic: Swap in blackberry juice or cherry juice for a flavor twist, and sparkling apple cider in place of grape juice.
- Snowy Garnish: Freeze rosemary in ice cubes with pomegranate arils for a frosty finish!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the juice and syrup base up to a day ahead—just don’t add the bubbly until serving to preserve the fizz.
What can I use instead of Prosecco?
Any dry sparkling wine will do, or go for a non-alcoholic sparkling white grape juice or cider for a family-friendly version.
Is this gluten-free and vegan?
Yes! Both versions are naturally gluten-free and vegan—just check your wine bottle or juice label to be sure.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) chilled Prosecco or sparkling grape juice
- 2/3 cup (160 ml) chilled pomegranate juice
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) chilled sparkling water
- Optional: 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses or grenadine
- Ice
- Garnishes: pomegranate arils, fresh rosemary sprigs, orange twist/wheel, star anise or cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Fill 4 glasses with ice. In each, pour 40 ml pomegranate juice and 20 ml sparkling water. Add syrup if using.
- Top each drink with 60 ml Prosecco or sparkling juice, stir gently, and garnish as desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrition: ~60 calories per serving (non-alcoholic version, without syrup)
I’d love to hear how your holiday spritz turned out! Leave a comment if you tried a fun variation or tag @thekitchensaid on social—you know I adore seeing your creations sparkle!
