Cranberry Mint Julep Mocktail
This minty, tart, and gently sweet mocktail brings together fresh mint leaves, cranberry juice, lime, and a hint of fizz. It’s ultra-refreshing and perfect for parties, hot days, or whenever you need a fun, alcohol-free drink.
Equipment
- Muddler
- Strainer
- Measuring cup
- Spoon or bar spoon
- Chilled glass or julep cup
- Small pitcher
- Knife and cutting board
- Ice cube tray
Ingredients
- 10-12 fresh mint leaves plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup cranberry juice sweetened or unsweetened
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
- 1-2 tablespoons simple syrup, honey, or agave syrup adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- ginger ale optional, swap for club soda if you want it sweeter
- 1-2 tablespoons pomegranate juice optional, for a twist
- ice cubes
- fresh cranberries for garnish
- basil leaves optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Drop fresh mint leaves into the bottom of your glass and add your sweetener of choice.
- Use the muddler to gently press the mint and sweetener together, just until the leaves smell amazing.
- Pour in cranberry juice, lime juice, and pomegranate juice if you’re using it.
- Stir everything together with a spoon.
- Fill your glass all the way up with ice cubes.
- Top with sparkling water or club soda. If you want it sweeter, use ginger ale instead.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix.
- Strain into a chilled glass if you want a smoother drink.
- Garnish with mint, basil, and a few cranberries on top.
Notes
Gently muddle mint to avoid bitterness. Add more honey or syrup if using unsweetened cranberry juice. Basil, lime slices, and club soda keep things bright and light. Garnishes are optional but make the drink feel special.