Brilliant Citrus Sparkler
Elevate your brunch experience with our Brilliant Citrus Sparkler, a refreshing and bubbly take on the classic mimosa. This delightful punch combines the rich flavors of brewed tea with the vibrant zing of orange juice concentrate, perfectly balanced with the crispness of chilled champagne or sparkling wine. Perfect for gatherings, this punch offers a beautiful presentation and a citrusy flavor profile that will invigorate your morning. Chill it ahead of time for a convenient and impressive addition to any brunch table.
8
Servings
125
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
boiling water
4 cups (boiled)
tea bags
4 (regular size, steeped)
sugar
1/2 cup (dissolved)
orange juice concentrate
1 (6 ounce) can (thawed)
champagne or sparkling wine
750 milliliters (chilled)
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling 4 cups of water in a large kettle.
2
Once boiling, pour the water over the tea bags in a heat-proof pitcher or bowl. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes.
3
After steeping, remove and discard the tea bags, allowing the brewed tea to cool slightly.
4
Stir in the sugar and thawed orange juice concentrate into the warm tea, mixing until the sugar is fully dissolved.
5
Cover the tea mixture and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.
6
When you’re ready to serve, gently stir the chilled tea mixture and carefully pour in the chilled champagne or sparkling wine. Mix well to combine.
7
Serve immediately over ice, garnished with orange slices or mint leaves if desired.
Nutrition Information
0g
Fat
31g
Carbs
0g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Brilliant Citrus Sparkler?
The Brilliant Citrus Sparkler is a refreshing and bubbly brunch punch that combines brewed tea, orange juice concentrate, sugar, and chilled champagne or sparkling wine.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
You will need boiling water, 4 tea bags, 1/2 cup sugar, a 6-ounce can of orange juice concentrate, and 750 milliliters of champagne or sparkling wine.
How many calories are in one serving of the Brilliant Citrus Sparkler?
Each serving contains approximately 125 calories.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 31 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is there any fat or protein in this drink?
No, this beverage contains 0g of fat and 0g of protein.
How long should the tea steep?
The tea bags should steep in boiling water for 5 minutes.
How long must the tea mixture chill before serving?
The mixture should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to ensure it is properly chilled.
Can I use sparkling wine instead of champagne?
Yes, chilled sparkling wine is a perfect alternative to champagne for this recipe.
What type of tea bags should I use?
The recipe calls for 4 regular size tea bags.
When do I add the sugar and orange juice concentrate?
Stir the sugar and thawed orange juice concentrate into the warm tea after you have removed the tea bags.
Should the orange juice concentrate be frozen when added?
No, the orange juice concentrate should be thawed before being stirred into the tea mixture.
When is the best time to add the champagne?
Add the chilled champagne or sparkling wine right before serving to maintain the carbonation.
How should this drink be served?
It should be served immediately over ice, garnished with orange slices or mint leaves if desired.
Do I need to boil the water first?
Yes, begin by boiling 4 cups of water in a large kettle before pouring it over the tea bags.
Can I make the tea base in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and chill the tea, sugar, and juice mixture ahead of time, then add the bubbles when guests arrive.
What is the preparation for the tea bags?
The tea bags should be steeped in 4 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes and then discarded.
Does this recipe contain any fiber or cholesterol?
Based on the nutritional data provided, fiber and cholesterol levels are null.
How much orange juice concentrate is required?
The recipe requires one 6-ounce can of orange juice concentrate.
How much champagne is used in the recipe?
A standard 750-milliliter bottle of champagne or sparkling wine is used.
Is the sugar content high?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of sugar for 8 servings, contributing to the 31g of carbohydrates per serving.
Should I cover the pitcher while the tea steeps?
Yes, you should cover the pitcher or bowl during the 5-minute steeping process.
What kind of flavor profile does this drink have?
It has a citrusy and refreshing flavor profile with a bubbly finish, similar to a tea-infused mimosa.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of concentrate?
The recipe specifies concentrate for a more vibrant zing, but you could use a high-quality juice if you adjust the liquid ratios.
What happens if I steep the tea for more than 5 minutes?
Steeping longer than 5 minutes may cause the tea to become bitter; 5 minutes is the recommended time for balance.
Can I use a different type of juice?
While the 'Citrus Sparkler' focuses on orange, you could experiment with other citrus concentrates like grapefruit or lemon.
Is this drink suitable for a party?
Absolutely, its presentation and refreshing nature make it an impressive addition to any party or brunch table.
How much boiling water is needed?
You need 4 cups of boiling water.
Do I stir the mixture after adding the champagne?
Yes, gently stir the chilled tea mixture and the champagne to combine them well.
What are some suggested garnishes?
Orange slices and fresh mint leaves are excellent garnish choices for this beverage.