Looking for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink? The Cherry Lemon Burst Mocktail combines sweet cherries with tangy lemon for a perfect balance of flavors.
This easy-to-make drink requires just four ingredients and takes less than five minutes to prepare.
This mocktail works well for any occasion—from summer barbecues to fancy dinner parties.
The bright red color and sparkling bubbles make it visually appealing. Guests will appreciate having a fun alcohol-free option that still feels special.
The Cherry Lemon Burst can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It’s also simple to adjust the recipe for larger groups.
Children and adults alike enjoy this tasty beverage that offers a burst of flavor in every sip.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Ice cube tray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Highball glasses
- Cocktail stirrer or long spoon
- Cutting board and knife
- Jigger (optional but helpful for precise measurements)
Ingredients
- 10 fresh cherries pitted (or 1/4 cup frozen cherries, thawed)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 medium lemons
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Mint leaves for garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Cherry for garnish
Optional add-ins:
- 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
- A few drops of cherry or lemon bitters non-alcoholic
- 1-2 tablespoons tart cherry juice for deeper flavor
The quality of cherries matters in this recipe.
Instructions
Prepare the cherries:
- Wash and pit 10 cherries. Reserve one cherry for garnish.
Muddle the fruit:
- Place the pitted cherries in a cocktail shaker or mason jar. Add 5-6 mint leaves. Gently muddle to release the cherry juice and mint oils without completely crushing the cherries.
Add remaining ingredients:
- Pour in the lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker.
Shake well:
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well combined and chilled.
Strain and serve:
- Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
Garnish:
- Add a lemon slice, fresh mint leaves, and the reserved cherry on top.
This recipe makes one serving. For a pitcher, multiply all ingredients by the number of servings needed.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
The Cherry Lemon Burst Mocktail offers a bright and refreshing flavor profile. The first sip delivers a sweet cherry note that quickly transitions to a zesty lemon finish.
This drink presents a perfect balance between sweet and tart.
The cherry syrup provides a fruity sweetness without becoming cloying, while the lemon juice adds a crisp acidity that cleanses the palate.
The carbonation from the soda water creates a light, effervescent mouthfeel.
Tiny bubbles dance on the tongue, enhancing the drink’s refreshing quality.
The vibrant red hue of the drink suggests sweetness, but the actual taste proves less sweet than expected. This makes it suitable for both dessert pairings and standalone refreshment.
Temperature affects the flavor noticeably.
When properly chilled, the mocktail’s fruit flavors become more pronounced and the carbonation more lively.
The garnish of fresh lemon and cherry not only adds visual appeal but contributes subtle aromatic notes that enhance the drinking experience.
Substitutes
Don’t have all the ingredients for a Cherry Lemon Burst Mocktail? No problem! There are many easy swaps you can make.
For the cherry juice, try cranberry juice or pomegranate juice. These options provide similar tartness and beautiful color.
Lemon juice can be replaced with lime juice for a different citrus note. Orange juice works too, but will make the drink sweeter.
Fruit Substitutions:
- Fresh cherries → Frozen cherries or maraschino cherries
- Lemon slices → Lime or orange slices
- Mint leaves → Basil leaves or skip entirely
Sweetener Options:
- Simple syrup → Honey, agave nectar, or maple syrup
- Sugar → Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (use less as they’re stronger)
For the soda water, try flavored sparkling water or ginger ale. Ginger ale adds spice and sweetness to the drink.
If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or almond milk. This creates a different but delicious variation.
Remember that substitutions may change the flavor profile slightly. Start with smaller amounts and adjust to taste.
