Description
This refreshing Cranberry Mocktail is a vibrant and fruity beverage perfect for any occasion. Made with a homemade cranberry simple syrup combining fresh cranberries, lemon juice, and pomegranate juice, then mixed with club soda and garnished with fresh fruit and mint, it’s a delightful non-alcoholic drink. For those who prefer a spirited twist, vodka can also be added for a boozy version.
Ingredients
Scale
Cranberry Simple Syrup
- 3 lemons, juiced
- 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 cups cranberry juice (sugar-free)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate juice (sugar-free)
- 1/2 cup water
- 10 mint leaves (optional)
Mocktail
- 5 cups club soda
- Ice, as needed
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- Mint leaves, for garnish
- Lemons, sliced, for garnish
Boozy Version (Optional)
- 200 ml vodka
Instructions
- Make the Cranberry Simple Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, cranberry juice, pomegranate juice, lemon juice, and white granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Cook the Cranberries: Add the fresh cranberries and mint leaves to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until the cranberries soften.
- Cool and Strain: Turn off the heat and allow the syrup mixture to cool completely. Once cooled, discard the mint leaves and cranberries. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to remove any solids, resulting in a smooth cranberry simple syrup.
- Prepare the Mocktail: In a large pitcher, combine the cranberry simple syrup with about 5 cups of chilled club soda. Whisk gently to combine.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Stir in 1/2 cup of fresh cranberries, 1/2 cup of pomegranate seeds, and lemon slices to the pitcher for added flavor and garnish. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours to meld flavors.
- Optional Boozy Version: For an alcoholic version, stir in 200 ml of vodka into the chilled mocktail mixture. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve the Mocktail: Before serving, give the mocktail a gentle stir. Serve over ice cubes with additional cranberries and fresh mint leaves as garnish. Enjoy this refreshing and festive drink!
Notes
- The cranberry simple syrup can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference or substitute with a natural sweetener.
- For a sparkling twist, ensure the club soda is chilled before mixing.
- Mint leaves are optional but add a refreshing aroma and flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic party-friendly drink, omit the vodka and serve as is.
- Fresh cranberries and pomegranate seeds add texture and vibrant color to the drink.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cranberry mocktail, non-alcoholic drink, cranberry simple syrup, festive beverage, summer drink
