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–+ servings

Grapefruit Thyme Tonic Mocktail Recipe

Grapefruit Thyme Tonic Mocktail Recipe
This refreshing mocktail combines the tangy flavor of grapefruit with aromatic thyme and fizzy tonic water for a perfect alcohol-free drink option.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Muddler or wooden spoon
  • Citrus juicer
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Highball glasses
  • Measuring jigger or spoons
  • Ice cube tray
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients

  • 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice about 1 medium grapefruit
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz thyme simple syrup recipe below
  • 4-5 oz tonic water
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Grapefruit slice and thyme sprig for garnish
  • Ice cubes

For thyme simple syrup:

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8-10 sprigs fresh thyme

Fresh ingredients make a big difference in this recipe. Pink grapefruits offer a sweeter profile than ruby red varieties.

Instructions

  • Make the thyme simple syrup first. Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
  • Add thyme sprigs to the syrup and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.
  • Strain the syrup into a clean jar and refrigerate. This can be made up to 2 weeks ahead.
  • For the mocktail, place 2 thyme sprigs in a cocktail shaker and gently muddle to release the oils.
  • Add grapefruit juice, lime juice, and thyme simple syrup to the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
  • Fill a highball glass with fresh ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
  • Top with tonic water and stir gently to combine.
  • Garnish with a grapefruit slice and fresh thyme sprig before serving.

Notes

This mocktail can be adapted in several ways to suit different tastes. For a sweeter version, add an extra 1/2 oz of thyme syrup. To make it more tart, increase the lime juice slightly.
For a party, prepare a batch of the grapefruit-thyme base ahead of time. Keep refrigerated and add tonic water just before serving.
The thyme simple syrup works well in other drinks too. Try it in lemonade or iced tea for a herbal twist.
For a different flavor profile, rosemary can replace thyme. Mint also works well with grapefruit for a more summery variation.