Cranberry Lime Rickey Mocktail Recipe

I’m always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy drinks without alcohol, and honestly, this Cranberry Lime Rickey Mocktail might be up there with my favorites.

It’s a refreshing, fizzy drink that brings together the tartness of cranberry juice, a punch of zesty lime, and a splash of sparkling water.

It’s really simple to make and honestly tastes great whether it’s summer or, well, whenever.

Whenever I whip up this cranberry mocktail, it never fails to impress friends and family.

The ingredients are super straightforward, but somehow the drink feels a little fancy—without any fuss.

If you’re after something tasty, cool, and totally alcohol-free, you should give this Cranberry Lime Mocktail a try at home.

Cranberry Lime Rickey Mocktail Recipe

I like making this drink because it’s bright, cheerful, and doesn’t require much effort. It’s perfect for a hot day or just when you want something special.

Simple tools and fresh ingredients really make the flavors pop. Plus, the color is gorgeous—kind of hard to resist, honestly.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker (or just use a jar with a lid if that’s what you’ve got)
• Measuring cup
• Spoon or muddler
• Tall glass
• Strainer (optional, if you want it super smooth)
• Knife and cutting board
• Citrus juicer (hand-held is totally fine)
• Ice cube tray (fresh ice is always better)
• Small plate (for rimming the glass with sugar if you’re feeling fancy)

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cranberry juice (either unsweetened or regular works)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup (or honey—just use what you like)
• 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
• Ice cubes
• Fresh or frozen cranberries (for garnish)
• Lime wedges or slices (for garnish)
• Mint leaves (optional, if you want a little freshness)
• Sugared cranberries (optional, for a sweet touch)

Instructions

• Fill your cocktail shaker about halfway with ice cubes.
• Pour in the cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, and either simple syrup or honey.
• Toss in a few cranberries and a slice of lime if you’re feeling it.
• Shake it up for 10-15 seconds—just enough to chill everything.
• Strain the mix into a tall glass packed with fresh ice.
• Top with sparkling water or club soda.
• Give it a gentle stir.
• Finish with a lime wedge, a couple mint leaves, and maybe some sugared cranberries on top.

Notes

Getting the right balance of cranberry and lime juice makes a big difference. If it’s too tart, I’ll throw in a bit more simple syrup or honey. With unsweetened cranberry juice, I usually need a touch more sweetener.

I go for sparkling water when I want a lighter fizz, but club soda gives a bolder bubble. Sometimes, I’ll rim the glass with sugar or add sugared cranberries if I’m in the mood for something extra. When friends are over, I like to set out bowls of lime slices and mint so everyone can customize their drink.

Garnishing with mint, lime, and cranberries really makes the glass pop. Frozen cranberries double as fun “ice cubes,” which I think is a nice touch. And if you don’t have a cocktail shaker, don’t worry—a jar with a tight lid does the job just fine.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the Cranberry Lime Rickey Mocktail really hits with a burst of refreshment. The lime is sharp—almost wakes me up—and then the cranberry slides in with a gentle sweetness.

There’s this balance I keep noticing; it’s not too sour, but not cloying either. The fizz is subtle, just enough to tingle without overwhelming the flavors.

I love how the soda water keeps everything light. Each sip feels crisp, almost like it’s clearing my palate.

The mocktail’s icy chill is honestly perfect for a hot day. Tossing in extra ice? The cranberry and lime mellow out even more, which I actually prefer sometimes.

Adding a few mint leaves gives it a gentle herbal twist. The mint isn’t overpowering, just a cool little finish after each sip.

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