Champagne Cocktail with Grand Marnier Soaked Cranberries

What’s Up, Hungry People

‘Tis the season to be holly jolly!

Since we’ve been engaged, we’ve been gifted at least five bottles of champagne. After powering through the first two bottles, we were getting a little tired of the same-old champagne flavor. Some I turned into strawberry champagne Jell-O shots. Another bottle I turned into champagne cupcakes.

But with our nicest bottle of champagne, I decided to class it up a little bit with Grand Marnier soaked cranberries. For about a week, I soaked fresh cranberries in a mason jar filled with Grand Marnier. When the cranberries are plump and sufficiently alcoholic, it’s time to serve them in a glass of champagne (or eat them straight!).

Here’s What You Need:

• Champagne: Adds bubbles and a celebratory touch.
• Grand Marnier: Infuses cranberries with a rich, orange flavor.
• Fresh Cranberries: Provides a tart contrast and festive look.
• Sugar: For rimming the glasses and adding a touch of sweetness.

Let’s Get Toasty!

Start by rinsing the cranberries to remove any debris. Then, place them in a large mason jar and pour in the Grand Marnier until the cranberries are mostly covered. Now, remember, cranberries float, but with enough alcohol, they should start sinking. Let these soak for at least 24 hours or, for the best results, up to one week. The longer they soak, the more flavorful they become.

After the cranberries have soaked sufficiently, strain the remaining Grand Marnier into a second mason jar. This is our syrup, and it’s going to be fantastic.

Now, let’s get the glasses ready. Dip each champagne glass into the Grand Marnier syrup, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, dip the edge into sugar and flip the glass upright. This gives a lovely, sweet rim to your glass.

To serve, add about 2 tablespoons of the cranberry-infused Grand Marnier into each champagne glass. Then, add about 8-10 cranberries to each glass. Finally, fill the glasses three-quarters of the way full with champagne.

Tips and Tricks

• Soaking Time: For the best flavor, soak the cranberries for at least a week. This allows the Grand Marnier to fully infuse.
• Sugar Rim: Make sure to dip the glass edge in the Grand Marnier syrup first to help the sugar stick better.
• Serving Chilled: Keep the champagne and cranberries in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Cold champagne and chilled cranberries make for the perfect holiday drink.
• Glassware: Use fluted glasses to showcase the bubbles and cranberries, adding an elegant touch to your presentation.

‘Tis the season to enjoy festive drinks! This grand champagne cocktail with Grand Marnier-soaked cranberries is the perfect way to make use of those bottles of champagne. It’s a bit fancy and a lot of fun, with just the right balance of tart and sweet. The cranberries add a festive touch and a burst of flavor that’s just irresistible. So, grab a glass and toast to good times and great company!

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