Versatility is the name of the game with these mocktail recipes. From refreshing spritzes to cozy zero-proof sippers, these nonalcoholic cocktails will keep your taste buds buzzing no matter the occasion.
1/31
Virgin Mojito
From the Recipe Creator:
This alcohol-free version of the classic mojito is delightfully fragrant and refreshing. Keep fresh mint on hand, and it will become your go-to. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
You won’t even miss the rum in this refreshing zero-proof mojito. I recommend crafting a large batch of this mocktail. No matter how much you scale this recipe, it takes only five minutes to make from start to finish. And it takes even less time for everyone to drink it all down.
2/31
Strawberry-Basil Mocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
I love to sip this refreshing blend of strawberries and basil. —Carolyn Turner, Reno, Nevada
This refreshing strawberry mocktail uses basil to add aromatic, slightly peppery notes. The basil complements the sweet-tart strawberries and gives this zero-proof sipper a unique twist.
3/31
Virgin Pina Colada
From the Recipe Creator:
Pina coladas, everyone? Yes, the whole family can sip on these slushy mocktails—like vacation in a glass! The alcohol may be omitted but the bright, juicy tropical flavors are here to stay. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
All the tropical flavors of a pina colada, and none of the rum, are blended into this frozen slushy drink. I like to chill the glasses in the freezer so the pina coladas stay as cold as possible.
4/31
Shirley Temple
From the Recipe Creator:
A classic kids' drink that's been a favorite for decades, a Shirley Temple is a pretty, fizzy, red-hued mocktail served with maraschino cherries. Make the drink extra-special with a red and white paper straw or a little cocktail umbrella. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
No list of mocktail recipes would be complete without the classic Shirley Temple! It’s usually seen as a kids’ drink, but there’s no reason it can’t be enjoyed by adults too. Try fancying it up by making it with excellent Luxardo cherries.
5/31
Espresso Cream Soda
From the Recipe Creator:
This espresso cream soda recipe is my take on the viral internet recipe. It's fizzy, lightly sweet and refreshing. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
This espresso cream soda reminds me of a fizzy white Russian (without the booze, of course). Don’t worry if you don’t have an espresso machine. You can make this recipe with strong-brewed coffee or cold brew concentrate.
6/31
Virgin Margarita
From the Recipe Creator:
You don't need store-bought limeade, alcohol or any fancy ingredients to create a refreshing, thirst-quenching experience. All you need is a few lemons, limes and a touch of sugar; it really is that easy to learn how to make a virgin margarita! —Lindsay Mattison, Hillsboro, Oregon
Fresh lime and lemon juices, superfine sugar and a bit of club soda make this spirit-free margarita shine. If regular margaritas are also on the menu, you can easily scale the recipe to make a large pitcher. Then, set out a bottle of tequila and allow guests to mix it in if they choose to partake.
7/31
Watermelon Spritzer
From the Recipe Creator:
It couldn’t get much easier than this bright spritzer! Watermelon blended with limeade is cool and refreshing. It’s a wonderful thirst-quencher. —Geraldine Saucier, Albuquerque, New Mexico
This spritzer infuses real watermelon juice with limeade concentrate and a bit of fizzy carbonated water. To make it ahead, combine the watermelon and limeade the night before your event. Then, let the flavors meld together in the fridge overnight. Add the carbonated water just before serving so the spritzer stays nice and bubbly.
8/31
Brazilian Lemonade
From the Recipe Creator:
This cool and refreshing lime drink is perfect for sipping. Brazilian lemonade gets its vibrant and punchy yet smooth flavor from whole limes and sweetened condensed milk. —Susan Bronson, Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Upgrade your lemonade game by blending limes, water, sweetened condensed milk and a little sugar in a blender. The condensed milk adds body to the drink, making it just as satisfying as (if not more than!) any boozy lemonade.
9/31
Mock Champagne Punch
From the Recipe Creator:
Of all the punch recipes I've tried, I keep coming back to this mock champagne punch. It's so easy to keep the ingredients in the refrigerator and mix as much as needed. —Betty B. Claycomb, Alverton, Pennsylvania
Champagne is a mainstay at any New Year’s Eve party, especially once the clock strikes midnight. Include your sober guests in the celebration with this mocktail made with fizzy white grape juice and ginger ale.
10/31
Cranberry Cream Whipped Ginger Ale
From the Recipe Creator:
My kids wanted a special festive drink to sip on during the holidays. This cranberry cream whipped ginger ale was the result. It's a little fruity, a little tart and wonderfully sweet. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
This recipe was inspired by the viral TikTok recipe for whipped Dr. Pepper. We made ours festive for fall holidays (hence the cranberries!). You can use the recipe to create any flavor of dirty soda your heart desires. Try using a few pumps of vanilla syrup instead of the homemade cranberry syrup. Or, swap in Dr. Pepper, Coke Zero or the cola of your choice for the ginger ale.
11/31
Blackberry Shrub
From the Recipe Creator:
Making a shrub recipe is a creative way to use up extra fruit all the way through Labor Day. We were inspired by sampling the house-made shrubs at a restaurant in California. Shrubs are as colorful and refreshing as summer drinks should be. —Gina Nistico, Denver, Colorado
A shrub (aka drinking vinegar) takes some time to prepare—this one tastes best after it sits for several weeks. It’s worth the wait, though. Blackberries, cinnamon and vinegar combine to create a flavorful, sweet, tangy base. Then it becomes a homemade soda when topped with sparkling water.
12/31
Tajin Limeade
From the Recipe Creator:
Tajin is a blend of chili peppers, salt and lime. I sprinkle it on a lot of food, but I've found it's really delicious in limeade. —Amanda Phillips, Portland, Oregon
Break out the Tajin to give this refreshing limeade cooler a kick of heat. It gives off major spicy margarita vibes without requiring any expensive tequila.
13/31
Orange Blossom Mint Refresher
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe because I'm not a fan of regular iced tea. This version has the perfect combination of freshness and sweetness, and the orange blossom water gives the tea a distinctive flavor. People always request the recipe. —Juliana Gauss, Centennial, Colorado
Orange blossom water (aka orange flower water) is an aromatic liquid made by distilling the flowers of an orange tree. It’s fragrant and floral, and absolutely perfect for a mocktail.
14/31
Rhubarb Punch
From the Recipe Creator:
Rhubarb is the featured ingredient in this blush-colored punch. A friend passed the recipe on to me, and we enjoy it so much that I thought others might too. —Rebecca Mininger, Jeromesville, Ohio
Perfectly pink, wonderfully fruity and completely alcohol-free, this mocktail is perfect for bachelorettes, birthday parties or baby showers. Strawberry and rhubarb are the power duo flavoring this drink. The pineapple juice and ginger ale create complexity.
15/31
Butterbeer Recipe
From the Recipe Creator:
Butterbeer is a beverage enjoyed by witches and wizards in the famed Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. Mentioned frequently throughout the series when Harry, Hermione and Ron visit the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade Village or celebrate another Gryffindor quidditch win, butterbeer is described by J.K. Rowling as a beverage tasting “a little bit like less-sickly butterscotch” and is served either foaming hot in mugs or cold in a glass bottle. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Witches and wizards in the Harry Potter universe break out this nonalcoholic drink as soon as the air begins to chill. Rightfully so, butterscotch, caramel, vanilla and cream soda are the mainstays of this mocktail. It’s perfect for fall and winter, but honestly I’d drink one anytime.
16/31
Blood Orange Punch
From the Recipe Creator:
This tangy punch is festive, refreshing and easy to prepare. Instead of plain ice cubes, I add frozen orange juice cubes. —Sandy McKenzie, Braham, Minnesota
Cranberry juice, blood orange Italian soda, sugar and lots of fresh lemon juice combine to make this ultra-bright and fizzy bowl of punch. Pro tip: Use large ice cubes. They melt more slowly and won’t dilute the punch’s flavors.
17/31
Copycat Starbucks Pink Drink
From the Recipe Creator:
Whether you've seen it at the beach or on your favorite Instagram account, the Starbucks Pink Drink is still one of the most beautiful beverages we know of. Create your own version of the strawberry refresher at home. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
What is a mocktail if not vibrant, fruity and refreshing? This iconic drink absolutely fits the bill. It was once on the Starbucks secret menu, but you never know when it’ll be pulled, so it is best to learn how to make it at home!
18/31
Kentucky Lemonade
From the Recipe Creator:
Mint gives this drink a bit of a Kentucky kick, and ginger ale makes it a fizzy party punch. —Cathy Justus, Taylor, Michigan
Lemon juice, ginger ale and mint leaves—what could be more refreshing? To make this mocktail even more vibrant, try muddling the mint to release its oils.
19/31
Scarlet Sipper
From the Recipe Creator:
This sweet, tart and slightly fizzy drink is a favorite for gatherings at our church. The bright color sets a festive tone, and the flavors blend seamlessly. —Amber Goolsby, Geneva, Alabama
This scarlet sipper might just be the easiest nonalcoholic cocktail on the list. Break out your pitcher or punch bowl, and pour in cranberry-apple juice, orange juice, fresh lemon juice and ginger ale. Give it a stir, and it’ll be ready to serve!
20/31
Apple Cider Punch
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve shared this recipe with many friends. It never wears out its welcome and is so easy to make. It’s also delicious warm. —Charles Piatt, Little Rock, Akansas
In the winter, we love to warm up with slow-cooker apple cider, but it doesn’t quite hit year-round. This cold version tastes great anytime. Plus, a bottle of ginger ale gives it an effervescent finish.
21/31
Strawberry Drink
From the Recipe Creator:
During the dog days of summer, my family looks for a cold, thirst-quenching drink. I like this strawberry cooler because it's sparkling, refreshing, fast and easy to make. —Judy Robertson, Southington, Connecticut
No one can turn down a booze-free beverage made with summer-fresh strawberries. We blend the berries with water, sugar, lemon juice and zest. Make sure to save some fresh strawberries for a picture-perfect garnish. Even mocktails deserve a presentation!
22/31
Pineapple Coconut Refresher
From the Recipe Creator:
This tropical drink is lower in calories and fat than most smoothie recipes. It's quite refreshing and packed with vitamins and minerals. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
If you want to serve mocktails with all the glamor of tropical cocktails, these pineapple coconut refreshers are for you. Pineapple-flavored coconut water is blended with agave nectar, fresh pineapple, ice and a little bit of avocado oil, giving the drink a smooth finish. Add a pineapple leaf garnish for that tropical island flair.
23/31
Virgin Hurricanes
From the Recipe Creator:
Revelers of all ages can enjoy a nonalcoholic version of the punchlike refresher that’s often called Mardi Gras in a glass. Adults who want a more authentic flavor can mix in rum. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
This bold, tropical mocktail packs all the flavor of the original. Made with a blend of passion fruit, pineapple, orange and lemon juices, it’ll transport you to a sunny paradise (even if you sip it in the dead of winter).
24/31
Sparkling Cider Sangria
From the Recipe Creator:
Adding orange and cranberry juices transforms apple cider into a pretty holiday drink. This quick and easy alcohol-free beverage is absolutely delicious. A friend shared the recipe with me years ago, and I made a few changes. It's a huge hit at holiday brunches! —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Sangria lovers will appreciate this fruit-powered mocktail. Apple cider and juice make the sparkling base. Orange juice, cranberry juice and matching garnishes turn it into a festive drink that resembles sparkling red wine sangria without the alcohol.
25/31
Ocean Punch
From the Recipe Creator:
This ocean water punch is refreshing and not overly sweet. Use your favorite Kool-Aid mix to switch up the flavor for every season and occasion. —Elizabeth LeBlanc, Bourg, Louisiana
How creative is this ocean punch? Besides the Kool-Aid-powered blue mocktail base and the addition of Swedish Fish, the fish bowl-shaped punch bowl really sells it. Check out the recipe for tips on getting the fish gummies to stick to the sides.
26/31
Slush Drink
From the Recipe Creator:
I mix this sweet, fruity slush using juices, berries and soft drink mix. Then I store it in the freezer for unexpected company. Simply pour a little citrus soda over scoops of the colorful mixture for frosty and refreshing beverages. —Darlene White, Hobson, Montana
Whenever I’m planning a get-together, I try to put make-ahead recipes on the menu so I don’t spend all day prepping. This mocktail recipe actually needs to be made at least 12 hours in advance, so it’s a perfect fit!
27/31
Chaider
From the Recipe Creator:
Make magic by combining apple cider and chai tea. It's a match made in heaven! —Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Everyone loves hot apple cider, especially when combined with a homemade chai concentrate. And this version is entirely alcohol-free! Make a big batch for your next fall gathering. Let people add brandy to their cups if they feel so inclined.
28/31
Easy Citrus Slush
From the Recipe Creator:
Our church’s hostess committee has relied on this refreshing drink for bridal and baby showers and other events. We often use different flavors and colors of gelatin to match the decor of the occasion. —Joy Bruce, Welch, Oklahoma
This citrusy slushie captures everything we love about a frozen margarita, but without the tequila. Just make sure to remove it from the freezer about an hour before serving or it’ll be too frozen to enjoy.
29/31
Strawberry Agua Fresca
From the Recipe Creator:
Water, sugar, strawberries and lime juice are all you need to make a refreshing summer drink. —Francine Lizotte, Langley, British Columbia
Agua fresca is one of our favorite Mexican drinks. We recommend serving them right after you blend them, when the flavors are at their most vibrant.
30/31
Irish Cream
From the Recipe Creator:
Add some creamy goodness to your cup of joe with a splash or two of this homemade Irish cream. —Marcia Severson, Hallock, Minnesota
We make our homemade Irish cream without whiskey, but it tastes just as rich as the original. Enjoy the creamy, chocolaty concoction over ice. Or, stir it into coffee to make an Irish coffee.
31/31
Sunshine Lime Rickey
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my re-creation of the lime rickey sodas served at my favorite burger place. I even tried a version using my own homemade bitters. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon
Fizzy and tart, every sip of this classic lime rickey feels like a celebration. You can make the lemon-orange mixture ahead of time, but wait to add the club soda until just before serving so it stays nice and bubbly.
Mocktail Recipes FAQ
What is a mocktail?
A mocktail is a crafted mixed drink that doesn’t contain alcohol. It can be made with all sorts of ingredients, like juice, flavored syrups, soda or fizzy drinks. Some mocktails are crafted to be a spirit-free copy of a classic cocktail. They can also be unique and original creations. Playing around with ratios can make a zero-proof cocktail as sweet or as tart as you like.
What is the most popular mocktail?
The most popular mocktail is the classic Shirley Temple. Made with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda, grenadine and maraschino cherries, it’s been a favorite spirit-free drink since the 1930s.
How can I make a cocktail without alcohol?
To make a cocktail without alcohol (aka a mocktail), try using nonalcoholic wines and nonalcoholic spirits to quickly turn any classic spritz or cocktail into a booze-free concoction. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it will be similar enough to enjoy. But you don’t need nonalcoholic substitutes to craft a really good mocktail. Experiment with juices, flavored waters, sodas and flavored simple syrups to create the ideal homemade mocktail for you.
