Cranberry Aranciata Spritz Cocktail

If you love the classic Aperol Spritz, you’ll adore this Cranberry Aranciata Spritz - a citrusy, ruby-red Italian-inspired cocktail that sparkles with cranberry tartness and orange sweetness. It’s light, effervescent, fruity and perfect for brunch or holiday aperitivo hour.

What is aranciata?

Aranciata is a classic Italian sparkling orange soda made from real orange juice and zest, known for its vibrant citrus flavor and delicate effervescence. The name “aranciata” comes from arancia, the Italian word for orange. It’s bright, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between sweet and lightly bitter, thanks to the natural oils from orange peel.

During my travels to Italy, I'll often see folks enjoying an aranciata as a midday refresher or as a mixer for an aperitivo. Aranciata pairs beautifully with fruits like cranberry or pomegranate for a modern twist on the Italian spritz. I think it tastes like a mature version of an orange soda - think about it as a lighter, fruitier base for drinks like Aperol Spritz.

Why You'll Love This Drink

• Only 3 main ingredients. Easy to find at your local grocery store, too.
• Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart. A perfect marriage of flavors that go together effortlessly.
• Effortless to make for gatherings. No more boring cocktails - this is easy and festive!

Ingredients You'll Need

• Cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened). Provides tartness and that deep red hue.
• Sanpellegrino Aranciata (classic or rossa). Brings sweet orange sparkle.
• Chilled prosecco. Adds that signature spritz fizz.
• Orange slices and fresh cranberries. For a colorful, festive garnish.
• Ice cubes. To keep the drink chilled.

Scroll to the recipe card below to find the remaining ingredients and quantities! 

Substitutions

• Make it a mocktail. Omit the prosecco and swap for a lemon-flavored sparkling water. You'll keep the citrus flavor and Italian flare while cutting out the alcohol.

Variations

• Cran-tastic. With so many flavors and variations of cranberry juice in stores, experiment with your favorite. Maybe it's cran-raspberry for a berry-forward twist or cran-appleto keep the fall flavors true - try your favorite!
• A boozy addition. Add a splash of Aperol or Campari for a classic Italian spritz twist.
• Bonus points for decor. Rim glasses with sugar and orange zest for a touch of extra elegance.

Equipment

• Two wine glasses.
• Bar spoon or regular spoon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Fill two large wine glasses halfway with ice.

Step 2: Pour in the cranberry juice and aranciata.

Step 3: Top with prosecco and stir gently.

Step 4: Garnish with orange slices and cranberries.

Making Ahead

Combine the cranberry juice and aranciata up to 1 day ahead and chill until serving.

What to Pair with this Drink

• Serve this spritz alongside a light yet punchy aglio e olio pasta - bonus points if you enjoy it al fresco to really feel like you're in an Italian terrace enjoying the finer things!
• Pouring these at a dinner party? Make an easy, complimentary dessert like these no-bake lemon truffles.

FAQ

Tips and Tricks

• Chill all ingredients thoroughly before mixing.
• Freeze cranberries and use them as “ice cubes”

Did you try out this recipe? I'd love to know how it went! Leave me a comment and rating below or tag me on Instagram at @AFabulousBite!

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