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Festive Sparkling Holiday Mocktail

This sparkling mocktail combines fresh herbs, citrus zest, and vibrant fruit juices to create a bright, refreshing drink perfect for holiday gatherings. The process involves muddling, mixing, and gently adding sparkling water to preserve the bubbles, resulting in a visually appealing and aromatic beverage with a crisp, bubbly finish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Festive
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 leaves fresh mint leaves roughly torn for extra aroma
  • 1 zest lemon or orange zest use a microplane for fine zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon or orange juice preferably freshly squeezed
  • 1 cup cranberry juice or choose apple/pear juice for variety
  • 1 cup sparkling water or club soda chilled, added last to preserve fizz
  • 2 tbsp honey or simple syrup adjust sweetness to taste
  • edible flowers for garnish optional, adds a festive touch
  • ice cubes to fill glasses chill the glasses beforehand

Equipment

  • Muddler
  • Large mixing glass
  • Spoon or stirrer
  • Measuring jigger or cups
  • Tall glassware

Method
 

  1. Place fresh mint leaves and citrus zest into a large mixing glass. Gently muddle with a muddler until the herbs release their aroma and the zest is fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  2. Add the fresh citrus juice, cranberry juice, and honey or simple syrup to the muddled mixture. Stir well with a spoon to combine and dissolve the sweetener.
  3. Fill your tall glasses with ice cubes to keep the drink cold and refreshing.
  4. Pour the juice mixture evenly over the ice in each glass, filling about two-thirds full.
  5. Gently pour chilled sparkling water or club soda into each glass, just before serving, to preserve the bubbles. Add slowly to avoid overflowing and losing fizz.
  6. Garnish each drink with a citrus slice and a few edible flowers for a festive, colorful presentation.
  7. Serve immediately with a straw or stirrer, allowing the drink to sparkle and smell vibrant. Enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors!

Notes

Adjust sweetness and citrus levels to taste. Use fresh, vibrant ingredients for the best flavor. Keep sparkling water chilled and add last to maintain fizz.