Cranberry Lime Agua Fresca Mocktail Recipe

I really enjoy tasty drinks that are simple to whip up and don’t need any alcohol. So, I’m pretty excited to share my Cranberry Lime Agua Fresca Mocktail recipe with you.

This refreshing mocktail brings together tart cranberry, zesty lime, and a bit of sweetness for a drink that’s honestly perfect any time of day. It’s got a nice balance—nothing too fancy, just good flavor.

Maybe you’re at a get-together, chilling at home, or just want something different to sip. This mocktail is quick and straightforward.

It’s a great way to stay cool and hydrated, plus it’s easy to make your own flavorful, alcohol-free drink. Try it out and see if it becomes your new favorite.

Cranberry Lime Agua Fresca Mocktail Recipe

I like making this bright and refreshing drink for parties or family hangouts. It’s a blend of cranberry juice, fresh citrus, and sparkling water—crisp, sweet-tart, and honestly, everyone seems to like it.

Equipment

• Pitcher for mixing and serving
• Citrus juicer or reamer for squeezing lime, orange, and lemon
• Measuring cups and spoons to get the right amounts
• Mixing spoon for stirring everything together
• Strainer (optional) if you want a smoother drink
• Ice tray or ice bucket for plenty of ice cubes
• Glasses for serving
• Knife and cutting board for prepping fruit and garnish
• Muddler (optional) if you want to press cranberries or lime slices for extra flavor

Ingredients

• 1 cup cranberry juice (I go for 100% juice for stronger flavor)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a little extra brightness)
• 2–3 tablespoons simple syrup (sweeten to your taste)
• 2 cups sparkling water (chilled, for bubbles)
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish or muddling)
• Lime slices for garnish
• Orange slices for color and flavor
• Ice cubes to keep things cold

Instructions

• Fill a pitcher halfway with ice cubes.
• Pour in cranberry juice, lime juice, orange juice, and lemon juice.
• Add simple syrup and stir until it dissolves.
• Slowly pour in the sparkling water and gently stir again.
• Taste and add more simple syrup if you want it sweeter.
• Drop in fresh cranberries and lime slices for garnish.
• Serve in glasses over more ice. Toss in some orange slices if you’re feeling fancy.

Notes

I usually reach for unsweetened cranberry juice for a more tart, fresh flavor. If you only have sweetened juice, start with less simple syrup and taste before adding more.

Fresh citrus juice really does make a difference. I always use fresh lime, orange, and lemon—trust me, it’s worth it.

Sometimes I freeze cranberries into the ice cubes for extra color. It keeps the drink cold and looks pretty cool, honestly. Kids seem to love those little pops of color floating around.

If you want it sweeter, just add more simple syrup or a splash of orange juice. Want it less sweet? Skip the syrup and bump up the citrus. You can swap the sparkling water for still water if you like things lighter, but I’m a fan of the bubbles.

Tasting Notes

Taking that first sip of this Cranberry Lime Agua Fresca Mocktail, the flavor hits bright and sharp. The cranberry is definitely front and center—there’s this gentle tartness that sort of wakes up your mouth.

Then the lime sneaks in with a zesty kick at the finish. It’s got that crisp, citrusy thing going on, which just works with the cranberry’s tang.

Honestly, I appreciate that it’s not too sweet. You get the natural fruit sweetness, but it doesn’t smack you over the head. That makes it super easy to drink, whether it’s morning or, I don’t know, late afternoon.

A splash of sparkling water gives it this gentle fizz, kind of making each sip feel a bit more festive. Plus, the red color just looks really inviting, especially poured over ice.

If you serve it cold, it’s extra refreshing. The lime aroma hits you as soon as you pick up the glass—reminds me of those lazy, warm days outside.

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