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5 Mocktail Recipes That Are Perfect for Summer

A cheers between three glasses of orange, lime, and grapefruit mocktails, with a slice of each fruit in them..

Fact: You don’t need alcohol to have fun. With today’s mocktails offering the same sophistication and refreshing punch as their spirited counterparts, you might find that sipping on an elevated, booze-free beverage is just as enjoyable as any classic craft cocktail. We’ve rounded up five summer mocktail recipes that are fun, festive, and totally liquor-less.

Ginger-Orange Mocktail

Invented in 1941, one of the appeals of a Moscow mule is the powerful kick of ginger. This ginger-orange mocktail includes orange juice and pineapple juice, showcasing citrus summer sweetness in a simple mocktail recipe to complement the fizzy spiciness of a non-alcoholic ginger beer. Ideal for a summer soirée, you can prepare ahead of time and top with ginger beer before serving. Here's how to make it:

  • ice
  • 3 oz orange juice
  • 1.5 oz pineapple juice
  • 2 dashes bitters
  • 2 oz ginger beer
  1. Combine orange juice and pineapple juice in a glass with ice.
  2. Add bitters.
  3. Top with ginger beer, and enjoy! 

ginger orange moscow mule mocktail in a glass

Non-Alcoholic Sangria

While we may not be vacationing in the south of Spain, we can always imagine ourselves there with this great summer mocktail recipe for a refreshing, non-alcoholic sangria. Calling for three different fruits and three different juices, you can customize it to include the produce you love. With plenty of antioxidants, potassium, and flavor, enjoy more of a healthy mocktail recipe with this naturally sweet sipper.

  • 2 cups white grape juice
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 2 oz lime juice
  • 1 orange, chopped
  • 1 peach, chopped 
  • ice
  1. Blend white grape juice and blueberries in a carafe. 
  2. Stir in the orange juice and lime juice.
  3. Add ice and sliced fruits. Refrigerate for 2 hours and serve. 

Berries are a summertime star! Check out the best berries of the season and how to use them now. 

Grapefruit and Rosemary Mocktail

Made with grapefruit juice and vodka, a greyhound often finds itself in the center of summertime fun. But this non-alcoholic grapefruit and rosemary cocktail may give the greyhound a run for its money. Providing just enough sweet and sour, the tartness of the grapefruit juice is nicely balanced with the aromatic rosemary. A crowd-pleaser, this drink pairs well with baby and bridal showers.

  • 2 cups grapefruit juice
  • 1/4 cup rosemary simple syrup
  • 4 cups sparkling water
  • 4 sprigs rosemary 
  1. Combine grapefruit juice and simple syrup in a pitcher. 
  2. Top with sparkling water.
  3. Divide between four glasses and garnish with rosemary sprigs. 

grapefruit mocktail in glass

Virgin Piña Colada

It’s just not summer without a frosty drink. With this virgin piña colada recipe, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy the tropical goodness of blended pineapple and coconut. Spoiler alert: This easy mocktail recipe ups the ante with coconut water ice cubes and a heavy hand on the maraschino cherry syrup drizzle. Savor this tasty beverage in your own backyard, but dress it up with a colorful umbrella and twisty straw for a resort-like feel.

  • 1 1/2 cups frozen pineapple
  • 1 cup coconut water ice cubes
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup coconut cream
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 4 Tbsp lime juice
  • cherry syrup
  • cherries
  1. Combine all ingredients, except the cherry juice and cherries, in a blender. Blend until frosty.
  2. Divide into glasses, swirl cherry throughout, and garnish with cherries. 

Sit back, relax, and enjoy your mocktail and a fantastic summer book. Here are the best summer books to read right now. 

Alcohol-Free Mint Julep

The go-to cocktail for Kentucky Derby festivities, the mint julep is typically heavy on the bourbon and light on the sweetness. But this summer, you can get the same minty satisfaction without feeling the weight of the liquor. Made with a mint simple syrup, this alcohol-free mint julep provides fresh flavor and cool comfort all season long, while also being a good mocktail recipe for kids.

  • 2 cups ice, crushed
  • 1/2 cup lemonade 
  • 1/2 cup mint simple syrup
  • mint leaves
  1. Add crushed ice to two cups. 
  2. Divide lemonade and simple syrup between cups.
  3. Garnish with mint leaves, and enjoy! 

virgin mint julep in glass

Summer Charcuterie Boards & Mocktail Recipes

Once you've whipped up one of these delicious mocktail recipes, you'll probably want a snack. A summer charcuterie board makes the perfect companion! Check out our step-by-step guide to making a summer charcuterie board and learn how to assemble this lovely seasonal favorite now. 

Mocktail FAQs

What is a mocktail? 

A mocktail is a non-alcoholic beverage crafted with ingredients like soda, juices, and herbs. Oftentimes, they're alcohol-free versions of popular classic cocktails. 

How do you make a mocktail?

You make a mocktail just like you would make any cocktail--just without the alcohol. Play around and mix up a combination of tasty juices, sodas, herbs, and mixers for a refreshingly delicious drink! 

How do you order a mocktail?

Simply ask the bartender or server if they have any mocktails or alcohol-free drinks. Most places have pre-batched mocktails or are more than happy to make one for you.