Celebrate the Holidays with Festive Christmas Mocktails
The holidays are here, and with them comes the flurry of hosting, gathering, and celebrating. But what about those who aren’t drinking alcohol, whether by choice, for health, or because they’re the designated driver? They deserve a centerpiece drink that’s just as special and festive as the traditional eggnog or mulled wine.
This year, let’s raise a glass to inclusive, delicious, and visually stunning Christmas mocktails! We’ve curated five easy-to-make recipes that will be the star of your holiday table, from a cozy winter spice sipper to a dazzlingly bright cranberry sparkler.
1. The Cozy Spiced Pear Fizz
Think: A warm hug in a glass. This mocktail combines the gentle sweetness of pear with the timeless warmth of Christmas spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz pear nectar (or pureed ripe pear)
- 1 oz freshly pressed apple juice
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick, plus extra for garnish
- 2-3 oz ginger ale or chilled club soda
- Thin pear slice for garnish
Method:
- In a shaker or small saucepan, gently muddle the cloves and cinnamon stick with the pear nectar and apple juice (if using a saucepan, warm gently for 2-3 minutes to infuse, then let cool).
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Add lemon juice and top with ginger ale or club soda.
- Gently stir and garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick and a delicate pear slice.
2. The Ruby Cranberry Sparkler
A tart, vibrant, and utterly beautiful crowd-pleaser. This drink brings the iconic colour and flavour of cranberry to life with festive fizz.
Ingredients:
- 3 oz good-quality cranberry juice (100% juice is best)
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- ½ oz simple syrup or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- Chilled sparkling water or non-alcoholic prosecco
- Fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig for garnish
Method:
- In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, and syrup. Shake well.
- Strain into a beautiful flute or coupe glass.
- Top with sparkling water or NA prosecco.
- Skewer 3-4 fresh cranberries on a rosemary sprig (it looks like a tiny Christmas tree!) and rest it on the rim.
