We’re now in a time where, thankfully, non-alcoholic beverage options go far beyond just a glass of soda with a squeeze of lemon or lime. Even if the evolution of tastes in recent years has led hard seltzer, hard kombuchaand yes, even hard waterin the spotlight, there has been a simultaneous shift towards the rise of brands that produce delicious, refreshing and beautifully packaged products. non-alcoholic drinks. And along with that, thankfully, holiday mocktail recipes abound.
10 Holiday Mocktail Recipes to Celebrate the Season
Call it Covid-era fatigue, booze-heavy virtual happy hours, or maybe an increase in sober-curious among us – or any of the many other reasons we might turn down a drink. Whatever the cause, we expect more from the now fashionable mocktail. To help you unleash your creativity, we’ve found the best holiday mocktail recipes that are fruity, sparkling, and meant to be shared with family and friends. Cue the Hallmark Christmas movie vibe. Forget the hangover.
Mint Pomegranate Punch
Why we love it: Pomegranates are the fleeting and ever-elusive ingredient we try to use as much as possible between now and the end of December – and this recipe does the ruby red fruit justice. Mixing the pomegranate seeds with the blueberries and mint leaves balances their tart flavor, giving just enough sweetness to make this taste like the best version of a non-alcoholic mojito you’ve ever had.
Hero ingredient: The bouquet of fresh mint leaves lends a lingering freshness to offset the fruity flavor of this colorful drink.
Savory dog mocktail
Why we love it: Technically, Camille developed this as a cocktail recipe. But because she knows we all like a little variety in our lives, she also included a mocktail twist, and it couldn’t be simpler. Grapefruit serves as the base of this drink and alone gives a delicious and juicy flavor. For this reason, simply swap in lime juice to replace the vodka or gin and add a little more grapefruit sparkling water. The entire recipe requires just three simple steps.
Hero ingredient: I love a little garnish for added color and flavor. A sprig of rosemary is perfectly festive without going overboard.
Mint Green Kombucha Smash Mocktail
Why we love it: If you’re looking for party mocktail recipes that also have significant health benefits, this is the one for you. The base of this recipe is a lightly sweetened green juice that you can make in large quantities. Plus, you don’t even need a juicer to make this: just get out your Vitamix, blend your ingredients, and pass the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Friendly reminder that you don’t have to wait until January to start adopting the habits that help you feel better.
Hero ingredient: Spinach is the base of many green juices, and while you can’t taste it here thanks to the addition of many other ingredients just sweet enough, it gives the juice its beautiful bright green color (not to mention lots of fiber) . and antioxidants).
Olivia Noceda’s Peppermint Espresso Mocktini
Why we love it: We couldn’t call this the definitive list of holiday mocktail recipes without including a favorite Christmas flavor. When the mood calls for a cold, creamy drink (and you’re told eggnog contains rum), this is what you need. Pretty, minty and just as deliciously indulgent as any Christmas cookie that you can find, this drink embodies the pleasure of the holidays.
Hero ingredient: Crushed candy canes on the edge add texture and just enough festive flair.
Pinch of Yum Rosemary Pom Spritzer
Why we love it: If you’ve ever thought that mocktails are a second-rate substitute for the “real deal”, this recipe will change your mind. Shaved to make and suitable for a crowd, this recipe checks all our boxes. You can prepare the drink in individual glasses for a small get-together with friends or mix up an entire pitcher if your plans involve a few extra guests. Either way, everyone will ask you how you did it.
Hero ingredient: Pomegranate juice gives this drink its distinctive color and flavor. Be sure to taste before you go for the rosemary simple syrup.
Sparkling Grapefruit Mocktail from The Grumpy Olive
Why we love it: Grapefruits are a beautiful, but often overlooked, seasonal treat. That’s why during the holidays I aim to incorporate them into everything I eat, including my favorite mocktail recipes. If you can, opt for fresh grapefruit juice. That makes all the difference.
Hero ingredient: A slice of grapefruit as a garnish confirms it: this mocktail is deliciously gathered.
Sparkling apple cider mocktail from What’s Gaby Cooking
Why we love it: If you’ve been led to believe that apple cider only has a place in the fall, this non-alcoholic holiday cocktail is here to convince you otherwise. It’s shiny, sparkly and goes way beyond your glass of Martinelli. Trust me.
Hero ingredient: Pomegranate arils add a welcome tang to this sweet mocktail.
Little Spice Jar Festive Sangria Mocktail
Why we love it: Sangria has the unfortunate, though sometimes deserved, status of being designated the drink of choice at many college parties. This adult, alcohol-free version adds a healthy dose of sophistication with a mix of sliced seasonal fruits and pomegranate arils. The result is a stunning sangria that, when served with a splash of sparkling water, is festive enough for any party.
Hero ingredient: Pomegranate juice is my favorite mixer. Not only for its vibrant and complex flavor, but also for the beautifully deep hue it lends to this mocktail.
1-Minute Mimosa Christmas Mocktails from The Mindful Mocktail
Why we love it: Sign me up for any drink that takes a minute or less to mix. I like this less-is-more approach, especially when it comes to accommodating a crowd. Two ingredients, gorgeous color and simple toppings seal the deal. This might be my ideal mocktail for the holidays.
Hero ingredient: With only two ingredients to choose from, I’ll give this recipe a tie. Non-alcoholic sparkling wine and cranberry go perfectly together.
Cranberry Kombucha Mocktail from Get Inspired Everyday
Why we love it: We’re quietly obsessed with the awesome color of this drink. It’s packed with all of our favorite hues and flavors we’ve come to expect from the holiday season and even incorporates a vibrant pop of orange thanks to the garnish. Too pretty to drink? Take a photo, add it to your Insta story and sip.
Hero ingredient: ICYMI, kombucha isn’t just for hanging poolside in the height of summer. You can use any flavor in this recipe and the result will satisfy your craving for something fizzy. Full of probiotics which are good for your gutthe basis of this drink kombucha makes sure you still feel virtuous even when going for a second drink.
This article was last updated on November 16, 2021.
