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Relax and refresh with a beautiful mocktail
The holiday season tends to be — for better or worse — a time of excess. If you are feeling the need for a reset, Dry January is here to help.
Started by Emily Robinson in 2011 (with the public first participating in 2013), Dry January is a challenge to abstain from alcohol for one month. In 2023, 175,000 people officially signed up to participate in Dry January, with millions more participating around the world.
Whether you plan to fully participate in Dry January, just want to cut back on your alcohol intake, or are simply looking for some new yummy drinks, say hello to the world of mocktails. Mocktails are similar to cocktails with one significant difference — no alcohol. They are refreshing, look beautiful and can be enjoyed by everyone, kids and adults alike.
Here are a few easy mocktail recipes to try during Dry January.
Easy Mulled Apple Cider
When the temperature drops there is nothing better than wrapping your hands around a warm mug of something delicious. This simple recipe will have you feeling warm and toasty in no time. Head to The Mindful Mocktail for all the details, and warm up the whole family when you come in from the cold.
Cozy Tea Toddy
A traditional hot toddy is often given to someone fighting off a cold or flu. The warm lemon and cinnamon can be very soothing when you find yourself at the mercy of a winter bug. This nonalcoholic version features tulsi, also known as holy basil, as well as immune-boosting spices. Find all the details at Experience Life and kick those sniffles to the curb.
Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine
With the long, cold nights of January, curling up with a warm drink becomes quite enticing. This easy recipe for alcohol-free mulled wine will warm you up and fill your home with comforting scents. Head to The Mindful Mocktail for all the details.
Sunrise Mocktail
A little orange juice, sparkling water (or non-alcoholic sparkling wine) and a dash of grenadine and you’ve got one lovely little drink. I made this one for my son and I and he has since made several on his own. They feel very fancy and it’s fun to watch the red grenadine swirl around the orange juice. Head to The Mindful Mocktail for all the details.
Alcohol-Free Mint Julep
This drink is simple and refreshing. You can make a batch of the simple syrup ahead of time to keep in your refrigerator. Then you’re always ready to pour this relaxing drink whenever the mood strikes. Learn more at All Recipes.
Virgin Piña Colada
If you like piña colada, then you’ll like this! Enjoy the refreshing tastes of coconut and pineapple in this blended drink. Kick back, close your eyes and feel the vacation vibes even if it’s snowing outside. You’ll never even miss the alcohol. Zach and Sarah at High Heels and Grills will give you all the details.
Blueberry Ginger Cooler
If you’re still holding onto frozen berries from your summer picking and you aren’t sure what to do with them, here is one delicious solution. Use some of your blueberries to make the syrup that is the base for this drink. Manali, at Cook with Manali, can show you how to put this lovely drink together.
This one requires some time and planning, but the results are well worth it. You can make a large batch of the syrup, so if guests pop over all you have to do is some quick mixing to impress them with this colorful, refreshing drink.
Margarita Punch
If you need drinks for a crowd, give this mocktail a try. You can mix up a batch ahead of time, put it out in a punch bowl or drink dispenser, sit back and enjoy your gathering. You’ll find all you need to know at All Recipes.
Honey Blackberry Mint Mocktails
This easy mocktail recipe is sweet and refreshing and contains no refined sugar. The simple ingredients come together and make a drink that is great for all ages and is sure to be a hit at your next party. Bonus: You get to use all your fancy bartender tools (though you can make it without) when you muddle the honey, fresh blackberries and fresh mint leaves. Get the details from Elizabeth at Bowl of Delicious.
Virgin Strawberry Daiquiri
This delicious virgin version of the classic blended drink combines fresh and frozen strawberries, resulting in a drink that doesn’t separate as it melts, so you can take your time sipping. This drink is also surprisingly healthy, packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants. Nat at the Mindful Mocktail can show you how to whip one up.
Virgin Mango Margarita with Meyer Lemon
This fruity frozen drink with a (optional) sugar rim is sure to be a crowd pleaser. It’s made with real fruit and packs a lot of flavor. You can make the virgin mango margarita mix ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just mix it with bubbly water and voila! Details on this easy mocktail recipe can be found on An Edible Mosaic.
Pear Ginger Mocktail
The ginger in this drink gives it a little kick, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the pear juice. You can increase the spiciness by adjusting the amount of ginger simple syrup for a drink that tastes as good as it looks. Learn more at The Merry Thought.
Enjoy Dry January!
