Honestly, there’s nothing better than a drink that’s simple, tasty, and super refreshing—especially when the weather’s warm. Mocktails let me keep all those good flavors without the alcohol, which is kind of perfect.
This Citrus Basil Cooler Mocktail is my go-to when I want something fresh, light, and easy enough for anyone to enjoy.
It’s got a pop of citrus and that subtle basil note that just feels right in summer. I can whip it up at home in no time, and I like knowing I’m using fresh stuff.
Sometimes I’ll make it for friends, but honestly, I’ve made it just for myself on a lazy afternoon too.
If you’re after a quick, interesting mocktail, I think this one’s worth a shot.
Citrus Basil Cooler Mocktail Recipe
This is one of those drinks I come back to again and again. The combo of citrus and basil just works, and it’s a great way to skip alcohol without missing out on flavor.
Equipment
- Highball glass: I grab one every time for this drink.
- Muddler: Makes it easy to get all that flavor out of the basil.
- Juicer or reamer: I use a hand juicer for squeezing citrus—gets the job done.
- Jigger or small measuring cup: Helpful for measuring out syrup and juice, though I’ll eyeball it sometimes.
- Bar spoon or long spoon: I like using a long spoon for stirring.
- Fine mesh strainer (optional): If I’m in the mood for less pulp, I’ll use this.
- Ice cubes: Gotta have plenty of ice on hand.
Ingredients
- Fresh basil leaves (about 6–8, plus extra for garnish)
- Lime (1 fresh lime, cut into wedges, plus more for garnish)
- Lemon (optional, for extra tang)
- Orange (optional, for a bit of sweetness)
- Simple syrup (2 tablespoons, or adjust to taste)
- Lime juice (2–3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed is best)
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon, if using)
- Orange juice (2 tablespoons, if using)
- Grapefruit juice (optional, for tartness)
- Sparkling water or club soda (chilled, enough to top off the glass)
- Ice cubes (enough to fill the glass)
Instructions
- Toss the basil leaves and simple syrup into the bottom of your glass.
- Gently muddle the basil—just enough to bruise it and get that aroma going.
- Squeeze in your lime wedges, and if you want, some lemon or orange for extra punch.
- Add the fresh juices—lime, lemon, orange, and maybe grapefruit if you’re feeling it.
- Fill the glass up with ice cubes.
- Pour sparkling water or club soda over everything, nearly to the top.
- Stir it all together with a bar spoon.
- Finish with a basil sprig and a slice of lime or orange on top, if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
When I muddle basil, I go easy—bruised is good, but shredded is not. That way, the flavor stays fresh and doesn’t get bitter.
If I want it sweeter, I’ll add a bit more simple syrup or orange juice. Sometimes I skip grapefruit juice for a gentler flavor, or I’ll use extra lime if I’m after more zing.
Sparkling water or club soda both work, but honestly, club soda’s my pick for a little more body. If I want it extra “smash” style, I just up the basil and citrus.
For a really smooth drink, I’ll strain the mix before adding ice and soda. The fresh basil and citrus make all the difference—so I always try to use the real stuff.
Equipment
- Juicer or reamer
- Jigger or small measuring cup
Ingredients
- 6-8 fresh basil leaves plus extra for garnish
- 1 lime cut into wedges, plus more for garnish
- lemon optional, for extra tang
- orange optional, for a bit of sweetness
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup adjust to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice if using
- 2 tablespoons orange juice if using
- grapefruit juice optional, for tartness
- sparkling water or club soda to top off, chilled
- ice cubes enough to fill the glass
Instructions
- Add basil leaves and simple syrup to the bottom of your glass and gently muddle.
- Squeeze in lime wedges and optional lemon or orange.
- Add fresh juices (lime, lemon, orange, and/or grapefruit).
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour sparkling water or club soda nearly to the top.
- Stir well with a long spoon. Garnish with a basil sprig and citrus slice. Serve immediately.
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I take my first sip of the Citrus Basil Cooler, I’m struck by how crisp and lively it is. The citrus flavors jump out right away—lemon, lime, and orange all mingling together.
Each fruit brings its own punchy, tangy note, so it’s definitely a drink that wakes up your palate. Honestly, it’s perfect for those sticky, hot days when you just want something cold and bright.
The basil is a nice surprise. It adds this clean, almost sweet aroma that just works with all that citrus.
I can pick up the natural oils from the basil leaves. The drink smells and tastes fresh, almost like you’re standing in a garden, you know?
This non-alcoholic beverage is light, easy to drink, and not too much for my taste buds. The balance between sweet and tart is spot on for a summer mocktail.
Some citrus fruits, like lemons and limes, are known for their antioxidants and possible anti-inflammatory properties. While I’m here for the flavor, it’s a little bonus knowing there might be some benefits in every glass.
