Finding cocktail recipes to make at home can be a challenge, especially when you take alcohol out of the equation. So many mocktail recipes can feel overly simple and childish, or way too complicated to make without a planning session and a trip to the grocery store.
Our mission at Raising the Bar is to make zero-proof cocktails accessible to everyone. Drinks should feel sophisticated and enjoyable, regardless of whether or not they include alcohol. That’s why we love crafting our monthly zero-proof cocktail kits. But when you’re looking for something easy to make at home, here are some of our favorite recipes that won’t make you feel like you’re sitting at the kid’s table. Any of these recipes can be enhanced with non-alcoholic spirits, but for the most part, they can all be made with things that might be in your pantry already.
Paloma
If you have grapefruit juice on hand, you need to try a zero-proof paloma. Combine the grapefruit juice with freshly squeezed lime juice, then add a little maple syrup for extra depth and sweetness. Pour over ice, and top with club soda or even a flavored seltzer. If you’re looking to feel extra fancy, salt the rim of your glass and add a grapefruit wheel as garnish.
Bitters & Soda
Bitters and soda might be the simplest option on this list, but it’s also our favorite. You can mix up this drink in seconds, and although it only needs two ingredients, the end result is sophisticated and complex. Just take a glass with ice and club soda, add a few droppers full of NA bitters, and you’re done!
This recipe is also great because of how much you can play with the ingredients. Try experimenting with different seltzers and flavored bitters to find your favorite combo! One note on bitters – many of them do contain alcohol, so if you’re looking for something completely alcohol-free check out All the Bitter!
Mojito
If you want something on the sweeter side, a mojito is always a great option. All you need is 1 tsp of sugar, a few mint leaves, lime juice, and soda water. Muddle the sugar and mint together, then combine it with the juice and soda water for a refreshing pick-me-up. Want to take it a step further? Ritual Rum Alternative will up the flavor!
Moscow Mule
Although a Moscow mule is traditionally served with vodka, it packs just as much of a punch when it’s alcohol-free. All you need is NA ginger beer (or ginger ale, if you’re in a pinch), a squeeze of lime juice, and a splash of club soda. Garnish with lime and enjoy! Extra points for serving in a copper mug 🙂
Hot Toddy
Looking for something to keep you warm during the cold winter months? You can’t go wrong with a hot toddy. Boil some water, then add honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon, and enjoy this cozy classic. Go heavy on the cinnamon if you’re looking to match the burn of whiskey, or keep it mellow and comforting by adding extra honey.
If you’re looking for even more great recipes, check out our monthly subscription options that provide all the ingredients and tutorials to help you make incredible drinks at home!
