Orange Cranberry Sangria Mocktail Recipe

Sometimes, you just want a big pitcher of something refreshing. This orange cranberry sangria mocktail recipe embodies festive flavors in a non-alcoholic twist on a classic sangria. Perfect for any occasion!

Made with a combination of zesty oranges and tangy cranberry juice, this zero-proof sangria captures the essence of a traditional sangria while offering a non-alcoholic alternative that everyone can enjoy. It's a true crowd-pleaser with its bright mix of citrus and cranberry flavors, complemented by vibrant apple and fruit garnishes. It's easy to make with just a few common ingredients and comes together in minutes.

The flavors of orange and cranberry combine in a fruity but sophisticated drink that is perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a festive holiday beverage, the orange cranberry sangria mocktail fits the bill.

I love serving this sangria in the winter, as a Christmas sangria mocktail option. I sometimes add star anise for a charming touch!

Why you're going to love this recipe

It's easy to put together juices and call them a mocktail, but we've struck the perfect balance with this cranberry orange sangria mocktail. Here's why you're going to love this recipe:

• Made with fresh ingredients - freshly squeezed juice and whole fresh fruit make the drink taste better and look more appealing.
• Festive - The mix of oranges and cranberry juice, along with other fruits, creates an impressive presentation that is perfect for company.
• Flexible recipe - you can adjust the fruit amounts to suit your flavor preference, make it stronger or milder in taste by changing the proportions, sub soda for ginger ale to make it sweeter, or even omit certain flavors if you're not a fan of apples, for example.
• Easy prep - It's easy to prepare with no complex steps or rare ingredients.
• Make ahead - Just combine everything, chill, and it's ready to serve with little work.

Ingredients

• Cranberry Juice: Provides the base flavor and signature color; can be substituted with pomegranate juice for a different taste.
• Orange Juice: Adds a citrusy sweetness; apple or pineapple juice can be used for a twist.
• Sparkling Water: Gives the mocktail its fizz; you can use club soda or any clear carbonated drink as an alternative.
• Orange: Sliced for a fresh citrus aroma and garnish; mandarins or tangerines could be used for a variation.
• Apple: Cored and sliced for a crisp texture; pears are a suitable substitute for a softer flavor.
• Frozen Cranberries: Offer a tart contrast and keep the drink cold; fresh cranberries or frozen mixed berries work well too.
• Ice: Chills the drink; frozen fruit can also be used to keep the mocktail cold without diluting it as it melts.

Instructions

Garnish the pitcher

Begin by garnishing your pitcher. Fill it with ice, then arrange slices of oranges and apples along the walls of the pitcher. You will have to put your hands in there to get them to stick; that's totally fine! Top the ice with the frozen cranberries.

Mix the base

To begin mixing this non alcoholic sangria mocktail, take a large pitcher and pour in the cranberry juice followed by the orange juice. This forms the base of your mocktail.

Chill

Once all the fruits are in, give your mock sangria pitcher a gentle but thorough stir. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator. Let it sit there for at least an hour, as it allows the flavors from the fruits to infuse into the juice.

Add fizz

When it's time to serve, take the pitcher out of the fridge and add the soda. Stir the mixture gently to distribute the soda without losing too much fizz.

Serve mocktail sangria

Grab your serving glasses and fill them with ice cubes to the brim. Pour the chilled mocktail over the ice in each glass. While pouring, ensure that a few fruit slices from the pitcher make their way into every glass for a full flavor experience and an attractive look.

Garnish with fresh fruit

Garnish each glass with a fresh orange slice or a few additional cranberries. Serve homemade orange cranberry sangria mocktail immediately.

Presentation

To give the drink a holiday touch, include a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to make this into more of a winter sangria.

Use fancy glasses, a stylish straw, and garnish with extra fruit and herbs to impress your guests.

Variations

There are a number of other fruits that go well in this orange cranberry sangria mocktail. Try adding the following to your drink:

• Orange slices
• Lime slices
• Apples
• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Pineapple chunks
• Grapes

Take advantage of seasonal produce and your guests' preferences to make this mocktail even more impressive. If serving this non alcoholic sangria during the summer, then frozen fruit is the best thing to use for a refreshing summer sip.

You may also consider the following substitutions to this virgin sangria recipe:

• Substitute pomegranate juice for cranberry juice to add a deeper red hue and a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, or star anise for a warm, spiced mocktail suitable for holidays and colder months.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or mint to add an extra layer of flavor.

Serving suggestions

This non-alcoholic sangria cocktail is perfect for many occasions.

• Summer gatherings, as the fruity and refreshing flavors make it an ideal beverage for warm weather.
• Holiday or New Year's Eve parties, as it offers a non-alcoholic option for guests who prefer not to consume alcohol.
• Brunch events, where lighter, fruity drinks are often popular and provide a welcome alternative to traditional alcoholic cocktails.

Recipe