Looking for a fresh and bright drink without alcohol? This citrusy mocktail brings together zesty lemons and fragrant thyme in a sparkling combination that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
The Lemon Thyme Sparkler takes just 5 minutes to make and needs only 4 basic ingredients.
The mix of herbs and citrus creates a drink that’s both refreshing and sophisticated. People love serving this at baby showers, garden parties, and weekend brunches.
The pale yellow color and thyme garnish make it look extra special in any glass.
Kids and adults alike enjoy this bubbly drink that’s a nice change from plain water or soda. The natural sweetness of the lemon and subtle thyme notes work together to make something that tastes grown-up yet remains family-friendly.
Lemon Thyme Sparkler Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Glass pitcher or mixing jar
- Wooden spoon or muddler
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
- Tall glasses for serving
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small saucepan (for syrup)
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 6-8 lemons
- 1 cup thyme simple syrup
- 4 cups sparkling water
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Ice cubes
- For Thyme Simple Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8-10 fresh thyme sprigs
Instructions
- Make the thyme simple syrup first. Add water and sugar to a small saucepan. Heat on medium and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add thyme sprigs and let simmer for 5 minutes. Then, remove from heat and cool for 30 minutes.
- Strain the syrup into a container and discard the thyme sprigs.
- Fill glasses with ice. Then, mix lemon juice with thyme simple syrup in a pitcher.
- Pour 2 ounces (1/4 cup) of the lemon-thyme mixture into each glass. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish each glass with a fresh thyme sprig and serve right away.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
The Lemon Thyme Sparkler has a bright, citrusy taste with a gentle herbal note. Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthiness that balances the tart lemon perfectly.
The drink starts crisp and zesty on the tongue. Bubbles from the sparkling water create a light, refreshing feel with each sip.
A sweet honey undertone softens the natural acidity of the lemon juice. This creates a smooth taste that isn’t too sharp or sour.
The aroma combines fresh herbs and citrus. When you lift the glass, you’ll notice the fresh thyme sprigs first, followed by the bright lemon scent.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Primary: Fresh lemon
- Secondary: Garden thyme
- Background: Sweet honey
- Finish: Clean, bubbly
This mocktail tastes best when served very cold. Ice helps maintain the crisp bubbles and keeps the flavors sharp and clean.
The drink leaves a cool, refreshing finish that makes it perfect for warm days. The herbal notes linger pleasantly without being too strong.
Substitute
The Lemon Thyme Sparkler can be made with many different ingredients if the main ones aren’t available. These swaps can create new and tasty versions of this drink.
Instead of fresh lemon thyme, regular thyme works well. Dried thyme can also be used. However, only 1/3 of the amount is needed since dried herbs are stronger than fresh ones.
Fresh lemon juice makes the drink bright and zingy. When needed, lime juice or orange juice can take its place. Store-bought lemon juice works too, but the taste won’t be as fresh.
Sparkling water gives the drink its fizz. Club soda or tonic water make good replacements. For extra flavor, try ginger ale or lemon-lime soda. Just remember to reduce the simple syrup to keep the sweetness balanced.
Simple syrup adds sweetness. Other options include:
- Honey
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
- Sugar-free simple syrup
Note: When using honey or maple syrup, stir well until they dissolve completely in the drink.
