A refreshing lemon thyme cooler mocktail brings together zingy citrus and earthy herbs for a perfect drink on warm spring and summer days.
This simple recipe creates a sweet-tart drink that tastes like sunshine in a glass. It combines fresh lemon juice, thyme simple syrup, and sparkling water.
The natural pairing of lemon and thyme creates an elegant non-alcoholic beverage that works well for garden parties, brunches, or any time you want something special without the alcohol. The herbal notes add depth while keeping the drink light and crisp.
Kids and adults alike enjoy this drink’s balanced flavors. The recipe takes just minutes to make and can be prepared in big batches for gatherings.
The thyme simple syrup stays fresh in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it easy to mix up these mocktails whenever the craving strikes.
Lemon Thyme Cooler Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher or mixing glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Muddler
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ice cube tray
- Collins glasses
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 6-8 lemons
- 1 cup thyme simple syrup
- 2 cups cold sparkling water
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Ice cubes
- Optional: lemon wheels for garnish
For Thyme Simple Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8-10 fresh thyme sprigs
Instructions
- Make the thyme simple syrup: Combine water and sugar in a small pot. Heat until sugar dissolves. Add thyme sprigs and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain and cool.
- Juice the lemons and strain out pulp and seeds.
- In a large pitcher, mix lemon juice with the cooled thyme simple syrup.
- Add sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
- Fill Collins glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the mixture into glasses.
- Garnish each glass with a fresh thyme sprig and lemon wheel.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
This refreshing mocktail has a bright citrus flavor that hits the taste buds first. The lemon notes are crisp and tangy without being too sour.
The thyme adds an earthy, herbal element that complements the citrus perfectly. Its subtle pine-like taste creates depth without being too strong.
When served ice-cold, the drink has a smooth, clean mouthfeel. The bubbles from the sparkling water give it a pleasant effervescence.
The sweetness level is mild and balanced. The simple syrup enhances the natural flavors without making the drink too sugary.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Primary: Fresh lemon, herbal thyme
- Secondary: Light sweetness, mineral bubbles
- Finish: Cool, refreshing, slightly herbaceous
The aroma combines fresh citrus zest with garden-fresh thyme. These scents make the drink more enjoyable and set up expectations for the first sip.
The pale yellow color and floating thyme sprigs make this mocktail look elegant in a tall glass. Small bubbles rising to the surface add visual appeal.
Substitute
You can swap lemon thyme with regular thyme in this recipe. The drink will have a milder herbal taste but remains refreshing.
For a non-alcoholic alternative to sparkling wine, use club soda or sparkling water. Mix it with a splash of white grape juice to create a similar flavor profile.
Replace simple syrup with honey or agave nectar. Add 1-2 teaspoons and stir well until dissolved.
No fresh lemon thyme? Try these options:
- 2-3 sprigs of dried lemon thyme
- 1 sprig regular thyme + 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil + 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
The garnish can be switched too. Fresh mint leaves, lemon wheels, or cucumber ribbons work well as replacements for the lemon thyme sprigs.
For a sugar-free version, use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of simple syrup. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
