Looking for a refreshing drink without alcohol? This Orange Rosemary Spritzer Mocktail offers a perfect blend of citrus and herb flavors that will impress your guests at any gathering.
This easy-to-make mocktail combines fresh orange juice, aromatic rosemary syrup, and bubbly soda water to create a sophisticated beverage everyone can enjoy.
The recipe takes just minutes to prepare but delivers complex flavors that taste like they came from a high-end cocktail bar.
The bright orange color and rosemary garnish make it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Orange Rosemary Spritzer Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher (at least 32 oz capacity)
- Wooden spoon or muddler
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Cutting board and knife
- Tall glasses for serving
- Ice cube tray (preferably large cubes)
- Vegetable peeler (for orange zest garnish)
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 cups fresh-squeezed orange juice about 6-8 medium oranges
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 cups sparkling water chilled
Optional Garnishes:
- Orange slices or wheels
- Rosemary sprigs
- Orange zest strips
- Ice cubes regular or rosemary-infused
Fresh ingredients make a big difference in this recipe. Use in-season oranges for the best flavor.
For a less sweet version, reduce the honey or maple syrup to 2-3 tablespoons
Instructions
- Prepare the rosemary syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water with the honey or maple syrup. Add 2 rosemary sprigs. Heat on low until the sweetener dissolves completely, then remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.
- Juice the oranges: While the syrup steeps, juice enough oranges to yield 2 cups of fresh juice. Strain to remove pulp if desired.
- Strain and cool the syrup: Remove the rosemary sprigs from the syrup and let it cool to room temperature.
- Mix the base: In a large pitcher, combine the orange juice, cooled rosemary syrup, and lemon juice. Stir well.
- Add bubbles: Just before serving, gently stir in the chilled sparkling water.
- Serve: Pour into ice-filled glasses and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and orange slices.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Orange Rosemary Spritzer offers a bright, refreshing flavor profile that balances sweet and herbal notes perfectly.
Upon first sip, the fresh orange juice provides a sweet yet tangy foundation. The natural sugars in the orange create a pleasant sweetness without being overwhelming.
The rosemary infusion adds an aromatic, woody element that cuts through the citrus. This herbal note lingers gently on the palate, creating depth.
The carbonation from the sparkling water brings a lively effervescence that makes this mocktail feel special and celebratory.
Flavor Balance:
- Primary: Sweet orange with bright acidity
- Secondary: Earthy rosemary
- Finish: Clean, bubbly, slightly herbaceous
The drink has a beautiful color gradient, from pale orange to clear with a slight amber tint from the rosemary infusion.
A subtle orange zest bitterness may be detected in the finish, adding complexity to the overall experience.
This mocktail works well in any season but feels especially appropriate for spring and summer gatherings when served chilled with plenty of ice.
The flavor intensity can be adjusted by allowing the rosemary to steep longer for a stronger herbal presence or shorter for a more subtle touch.
Substitutes
Don’t have all the ingredients for an Orange Rosemary Spritzer? No problem! Here are some easy swaps you can make.
For the orange juice, try grapefruit, tangerine, or blood orange juice. Each brings its own unique flavor while maintaining the citrus base.
If fresh rosemary isn’t available, use dried rosemary. You can also swap in other herbs like thyme or basil.
Missing club soda? Sparkling water works perfectly. In a pinch, tonic water can substitute, but remember it adds sweetness and contains quinine.
For a different taste profile, try adding other fruits like berries or sliced peaches. These add color and new flavor dimensions.
Need an alcohol version? Add 1-2 ounces of vodka, gin, or white rum per serving to turn this mocktail into a cocktail.
Remember that substitutions may slightly change the flavor profile, so adjust sweeteners as needed.