Refresh your spring and summer gatherings with a vibrant Sparkling Basil Orange Tea Mocktail. This refreshing drink combines the bright citrus flavor of orange with the herbal notes of fresh basil and the effervescence of sparkling water.
This easy-to-make mocktail requires just a few simple ingredients and takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. The base is brewed orange tea, which gives the drink a deep flavor without the need for added sugar or artificial ingredients.
The combination of muddled basil and orange slices adds a sophisticated touch to this alcohol-free beverage. Perfect for brunches, baby showers, or just a relaxing afternoon, this mocktail offers all the fun of a cocktail without the alcohol.
Sparkling Basil Orange Tea Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large pitcher (2-quart size)
- Tea kettle or pot for boiling water
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Long-handled spoon for stirring
- Cutting board and knife
- Ice cube trays
- Serving glasses (highball or collins glasses work well)
- Garnish tools (zester, peeler, or small knife)
Ingredients
- 4 cups freshly brewed orange pekoe tea cooled
- 2 cups fresh orange juice about 6-8 oranges
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice about 3-4 lemons
- 1/3 cup honey or simple syrup
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves plus extra for garnish
- 4 cups sparkling water
- 2 oranges sliced into rounds for garnish
- Ice cubes
Optional add-ins:
- 1 tsp orange blossom water
- Orange zest from 1 orange
- Frozen berries as ice cubes
The quality of your tea matters. Use loose leaf orange pekoe tea for the best flavor. Also, fresh-squeezed orange juice creates a brighter taste than store-bought options.
Instructions
- Brew the tea: Steep orange pekoe tea in 4 cups of hot water for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags or strain loose tea. Let cool completely.
- Prepare the citrus: Juice the oranges and lemons. Strain to remove pulp and seeds.
- Make the basil infusion: In the pitcher, muddle the basil leaves gently to release their oils. Don’t over-muddle as this can make the basil bitter.
- Combine base ingredients: Add the cooled tea, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey to the pitcher with the muddled basil. Stir until honey dissolves completely.
- Chill the mixture: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend.
- Finish the mocktail: Just before serving, add sparkling water and stir gently. Add ice to glasses, pour the mocktail, and garnish with orange slices and fresh basil leaves.
This recipe makes about 8-10 servings. For a stronger basil flavor, let the mixture steep longer in the refrigerator.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
This Sparkling Basil Orange Tea Mocktail offers a complex flavor profile that balances sweet, tart, and herbal notes in each sip.
The first taste brings a bright citrus punch from fresh orange juice. This tanginess is quickly followed by the earthy, slightly peppery notes of fresh basil.
The tea base provides a subtle backbone of flavor that ties everything together. Depending on the tea used, you might detect hints of honey, flowers, or mild astringency.
The carbonation adds a lively mouthfeel that makes this mocktail feel special and celebratory. The bubbles help release the aromatic compounds in both the orange and basil.
When properly chilled, this drink has a crisp, clean finish that makes it particularly refreshing on warm days. The temperature affects how prominently you’ll taste the basil notes.
For those who enjoy sweet drinks, adding a touch more honey or simple syrup will enhance the orange flavors. Meanwhile, those who prefer less sweetness can reduce sweeteners for a more tea-forward experience.
Substitutes
If you don’t have all the ingredients for the Sparkling Basil Orange Tea Mocktail, don’t worry! There are many easy swaps you can make.
Herb Options:
- Replace fresh basil with mint leaves for a cool twist
- Try rosemary or thyme for an herbal variation
- Use dried basil (1 teaspoon) if fresh isn’t available
Citrus Alternatives:
- Lemon works well instead of orange
- Grapefruit adds a tart dimension
- Lime creates a more tropical flavor
The tea base can be changed too. Black tea offers a stronger flavor. Meanwhile, green tea provides a lighter taste. Herbal teas like chamomile or hibiscus can create interesting flavor combinations.
For the sparkling element, try these options:
- Tonic water for extra bitterness
- Ginger ale for added sweetness
- Plain seltzer for a neutral bubble
No honey? Use maple syrup, agave nectar, or simple syrup instead. Each sweetener brings its own character to the drink.
For garnishes, orange slices can be swapped with any citrus fruit. Fresh berries make a colorful alternative to the standard garnish.
