If you’re over apple cider, try this spiced orange spritzer — a bright, seasonal alternative that’s both refreshing and festive.
This drink sits somewhere between an elevated mimosa and an aperol spritz (without the Aperol). It’s bright and sparkling, with warm spice notes that echo the aromas of the season.
I wanted a cocktail that didn’t rely on cranberry, pomegranate, or cider, so this orange-forward spritzer felt perfect. Don’t worry — a cranberry recipe will arrive soon — but for now we’re going full orange and spice.
We are going full blown orange spice.
This flavor combo has been a favorite lately. While I’m not always the biggest orange fan, the blend of allspice and nutmeg changes things — it adds a subtle, warming contrast that makes the drink feel special.
Start with freshly squeezed orange juice and whisk it with grated orange zest, a touch of honey, a pinch of allspice and freshly grated nutmeg. The combination is bright, a little spicy, and surprisingly complex.
If you dislike pulp, you can skip the zest, but the zest contributes a concentrated burst of orange flavor. If a little zest is fine for you, keep it for that extra zing.
This spiced orange base is poured over ice and finished with prosecco — I prefer prosecco here because it’s typically drier and balances the sweet orange — then topped with orange-flavored seltzer or plain seltzer for effervescence.
This spritzer feels less breakfast-like than a typical mimosa and a touch more sophisticated, making it excellent as a pre-dinner cocktail or to serve with a holiday meal. It pairs nicely with Thanksgiving flavors — think turkey, stuffing, sage, cranberry and pomegranate — but it’s flexible enough for brunch or a casual gathering too.
Let’s make it!
Spiced Orange Spritzer
Spiced Orange Spritzer
Yield:
2
, is easily multiplied
20
20
Pin Recipe
Leave a Review »
Ingredients
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
- 1 pinch allspice
- 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon honey
- 2 to 3 ounces prosecco
- 2 ounces orange seltzer
- Orange wedges for garnish
Instructions
-
Fill two wine glasses with ice. In a measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, zest, allspice, nutmeg and honey. Divide the mixture evenly between the glasses.
-
Top each glass with prosecco, then add the seltzer. Garnish with an orange wedge and serve immediately.
Did you make this recipe?
Be sure to follow @howsweeteats on Instagram and tag #howsweeteats. You can also share a photo on the Facebook page.
Thank you — I appreciate you!
Seriously — this is one of my favorites right now. Bright citrus, warm spice, and bubbly — a simple cocktail that feels a little fancy.