Classic Mimosas - Bubbly Brunch Drink Recipes and Tips
The Bubbly Brunch Classic - Mimosas
As we approach the new year, it's time to start planning your celebratory brunches. And what would a festive brunch be without a round of mimosas? The classic combination of fresh orange juice and bubbly prosecco is the perfect drink to ring in the new year. Keep reading for the complete guide to making mimosas, from a simple recipe to tips for keeping the bubbles fresh and making your drink Instagram-worthy!
A Brief History of Mimosas
The mimosa originated in the late 1800s at the Ritz Hotel in Paris. It was originally called a "champagne cocktail" and combined champagne with citrus juice. The name "mimosa" didn't appear until the 1920s or 1930s.
While the exact origins are uncertain, the mimosa rose to popularity in the 1930s during Prohibition in the United States. Without access to regular champagne, people mixed sparkling wines with juice to create a delicious but legal cocktail. The bubbly brunch drink has been a hit ever since!
World Famous Mimosa Recipe
The traditional mimosa recipe is incredibly easy but entirely customizable. The base ingredients are:
- Chilled prosecco or other sparkling wine
- Fresh orange juice (or other citrus juice like grapefruit)
The classic ratio is two parts prosecco to one part orange juice. For a single serving, use:
- 2 ounces prosecco
- 1 ounce orange juice
If making mimosas for a group, simply scale up the quantities while maintaining the 2:1 ratio. Pour the orange juice into a champagne flute first, then gently top with prosecco. Be sure to pour slowly and carefully to maintain the iconic bubbles.
Customizing Your Mimosa Bar
Once you've mastered the classic version, it's easy to customize your mimosas to match the theme of your brunch. Here are some fun ideas:
- Citrus bar - Offer an array of fresh citrus juices like grapefruit, lemon, lime, blood orange, etc. Let guests build their own combo.
- Fruit purees - Blend fresh berries, mangos, peaches, or other fruit into purees. Add a splash to the orange juice.
- Herbal infusions - Steep herbs like basil, rosemary, or lavender in the orange juice for a aromatic twist.
- Spiced rims - Rim glasses with cinnamon-sugar, Tajin seasoning, or red pepper flakes.
- Floaters - Add a few berries, mint leaves, or edible flowers on top for Instagram appeal.
The options are endless for putting your own spin on the classic mimosa. Get creative and craft a signature cocktail menu!
Keeping Mimosas Fresh
Nothing ruins a mimosa more than flat, warm prosecco. Follow these tips to keep your drinks bubbly and refreshing:
- Chill all ingredients ahead of time. Fridges and freezers are your friends!
- Use fresh-squeezed orange juice within 24 hours for peak flavor and acidity.
- Don't prep all your mimosas at once. Pour them in small batches to limit bubble loss.
- Store extra juice and prosecco in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Consider a juice carafe and wine dispenser for easy pouring at parties.
- Drop in a few orange slices or fresh berries to jazz up store-bought juice.
- Swap in a high-quality sparkling wine if you don't have prosecco.
Making mimosas for a holiday brunch? Check out these extra tips:
Special Tips for New Year's Mimosas
- Prep your juice and prosecco ahead of time so it's ready at midnight.
- Keep extras chilled in your fridge to refill glasses.
- Use champagne flutes to really let the bubbles shine.
- Top with a splash of Chambord or other liqueur for a special twist.
- Set up a DIY mimosa bar so guests can customize theirs.
- Infuse your juice with holiday spices like nutmeg, ginger or cinnamon.
- Shake in a bit of gold or silver sugar on the rim for some sparkle.
- Float cranberries or pomegranate seeds on top for a festive flair.
However you choose to mix them, mimosas are the ideal drink for celebrating the new year. The bubbles represent all the excitement and possibilities to come. As you raise your glass, take a moment to reflect on the past year and look forward to new adventures. Cheers to 2023!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an alcohol-free version?
Yes! For an alcohol-free mimosa, replace the prosecco with sparkling water, ginger ale, or non-alcoholic sparkling wine. Top with orange juice just like the original. The refreshing fizz remains without the alcohol.
What drinkware should I use?
For proper presentation, mimosas are best served in tall champagne flutes. The shape helps maintain carbonation. If serving a mimosa bar, have flutes ready along with carafes for juice and prosecco. Mini champagne glasses also make great individual servings.
How long do mimosas last?
Mimosas taste best right after mixing. The bubbles will start to dissipate after about 30 minutes. For parties, encourage guests to drink mimosas soon after pouring. Store extra prosecco and juice separately to make refills easy.
Can I make mimosas ahead of time?
Pre-mixed mimosas should be consumed right away before the bubbles disappear. Instead, premix the juice and chill ahead, then add prosecco just before serving. You can also set up a mimosa bar and let guests assemble their own.
What prosecco should I use?
An Italian prosecco or Spanish cava works best, but any dry sparkling wine will do. Avoid sweet prosecco, which may overpower the juice's flavor. If splurging for Champagne, stick to a brut or extra brut.
The Takeaway
Mimosas are the ultimate brunch cocktail. With fresh orange juice, bubbly prosecco and endless customization options, they're perfect for ringing in the new year. Follow these tips to make your mimosas picture-perfect and keep the fizz alive all season long. Top up those glasses and cheers to a happy and healthy 2023!