Why You’ll Love Cranberry Mimosa Cupcakes Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s cheerful, elegant, and great for gatherings or holidays. I like how the orange and cranberry flavors balance sweetness with freshness, and the cupcakes stay moist and tender. They’re eye-catching without being overly complicated, which makes them fun to bake and serve.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Sparkling Cranberries

1 1/2 cups (310g) sugar, divided
1/2 cup (120ml) water
1 cup (120g) fresh cranberries

Cupcakes

6 tbsp (84g) unsalted butter, room temperature
3/4 cup (155g) sugar
1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
1/4 cup (57g) sour cream, room temperature
1 tbsp (15g) grated orange zest
3 large egg whites, room temperature
1 1/4 cups (163g) all purpose flour
2 tsp (8g) baking powder
¼ tsp salt
3 tbsp (45ml) fresh squeezed orange juice, room temperature
7 tbsp (105ml) sparkling orange juice or citrus soda, room temperature

Frosting

1 cup (120g) fresh cranberries
2 tbsp (30ml) water
½ cup (104g) sugar
½ cup (112g) salted butter, room temperature
½ cup (95g) vegetable shortening
3 cups (345g) powdered sugar
2–4 tbsp (30–60ml) sparkling orange juice or citrus soda
1–2 oranges, sliced

Directions

I start by making the sparkling cranberries. I bring 1/2 cup of the sugar and the water to a simmer until the sugar dissolves. I let the syrup cool slightly, then stir in the cranberries until coated. I refrigerate them overnight, stirring occasionally.

When ready to bake, I preheat the oven to 350°F and line a cupcake pan. I cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla, sour cream, and orange zest. I add the egg whites in two additions, mixing well after each.

In separate bowls, I combine the dry ingredients and mix the orange juice with the sparkling citrus juice. I alternate adding the dry ingredients and juice mixture to the batter until smooth. I fill the liners halfway and bake for 15–17 minutes, then cool completely.

I remove the cranberries from the syrup and roll them in the remaining sugar, letting them dry until sparkly.

For the frosting, I cook the cranberries, water, and sugar until the berries burst. I puree and strain the mixture, then beat the butter and shortening until smooth. I add powdered sugar, cranberry puree, and enough sparkling citrus juice to reach a pipeable consistency.

I frost the cooled cupcakes, then top with sparkling cranberries and orange slices.

Servings and Timing

I usually get about 12 to 14 cupcakes. It takes around 40 minutes to prepare, 17 minutes to bake, and just under an hour total.

Variations

I sometimes add extra orange zest to the frosting for a brighter citrus punch. I also enjoy using lemon slices or sugared rosemary for garnish during the holidays.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving. They stay fresh for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I make the cranberries ahead of time?

I usually prepare them a day in advance for best results.

Do these cupcakes taste very citrusy?

I find the orange flavor noticeable but well balanced.

Can I use whole eggs?

I stick with egg whites for a lighter texture.

Is the frosting very sweet?

I think the tart cranberry keeps it from being overly sweet.

Can I skip the sparkling cranberries?

I can, but they add great texture and decoration.

What piping tip works best?

I like using a large round or star tip.

Can I make these as mini cupcakes?

I can, and I reduce the baking time slightly.

Do I need to strain the cranberry puree?

I do, so the frosting stays smooth.

Are these good for holidays?

I think they’re perfect for winter celebrations.

Can I freeze the cupcakes?

I freeze them unfrosted and decorate after thawing.

Conclusion

I keep these Cranberry Mimosa Cupcakes in my festive baking rotation because they’re bright, elegant, and full of fresh flavor. I love how the citrusy cupcakes, tangy cranberry frosting, and sparkling topping come together into a dessert that feels celebratory and memorable every time.