These are the best non-alcoholic, zero-proof mocktails for long summer days or hot summer nights! The whole family can enjoy these refreshing libations, so stock up on essential ingredients to make craft mocktails from the comfort of home.
The mocktail trend is here to stay! Many people are exploring sober lifestyles or experimenting with craft mocktails that taste just as fancy as their higher ABV counterparts.
But the key to making the perfect mocktail is to approach it as you would a cocktail. Rather than just splashing some juice or syrup into sparkling water, you can include muddled fruit, fresh or dried citrus, herbs, flavored syrups, and zero-proof spirits into your drink mixes.
This list includes some of the best summer mocktails, plus some frequently asked questions about making the switch to non-alcoholic drinks and nutrition considerations.
Let’s get started!
What’s Included In This Post
Are Mocktails Alcohol-Free?
Yes, for the most part. Mocktails are non-alcoholic cocktails.
But it’s important to note that some mixes call for kombucha, which can have a very low percentage of alcohol due to the fermentation process used to make it. Generally, this is less than 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) at the time of bottling. But additional fermentation can happen once the kombucha is bottled. Pay close attention to the labels as you’re shopping, since this is where you’ll find the exact percentage of alcohol.
Also, watch out for low-ABV liqueurs or cordials in mocktail recipes. If your goal is to avoid alcohol entirely, steer clear of these. Most liqueurs have a lower ABV(15–30%) than spirits but could be as high as 55% ABV.
Why Go Alcohol-Free?
Alcohol is often the first thing to go when you start focusing on a healthier lifestyle. And it’s true, that alcohol doesn’t offer any health benefits and can increase your risk for certain types of cancer. So if you aren’t already drinking alcohol, you certainly don’t have to start.
Street Smart Nutrition Tip: Be an informed consumer by getting to know What Is A Standard Drink? The Measurement That Matters.
And although alcohol can fit into an overall balanced lifestyle, there’s nothing wrong with exploring the sober life or periodically taking a step back from drinking. You can read more about Alcohol and Intuitive Eating if you want to learn more.
Skipping the alcohol can also save money. Mocktails are usually less expensive when you’re dining out or bar hopping. And can usually be made at home with ingredients you already have, with no need to buy a bottle of liquor.
But offering a mocktail option makes any event or gathering, no matter how big or small, more welcoming and inclusive for everyone. And almost everyone loves a fun drink! If you’re hosting a summer party, baby shower, birthday party, potluck, or any other event or corporate function, putting a mocktail on the menu ensures no one is left out or feeling awkward simply because they don’t drink.
Mocktail Nutrition
Don’t be fooled into thinking mocktails are automatically healthier than the alcoholic version.
Although they can be an excellent substitute to avoid alcohol, they still contain added sugar. The current dietary guidelines recommend no more than 10% of your total daily calories (energy) from added sugar.
But on the flip side, you can get a few benefits from the ingredients in mocktail recipes. For example, fruity mocktails using 100% orange juice or blended fruit like berries, watermelon, or mango puree could offer key vitamins and minerals. It’s also a great way to add color and lots of fresh flavor.
Key Ingredients for the Best Mocktail Recipes
Stock your home bar with these essentials to make these delicious non-alcoholic drink recipes:
- Sparkling water, club soda or soda water, tonic water, or flavored seltzers
- Fresh citrus, including lime, lemon, orange, or grapefruit
- You can also use 100% juice but fresh-squeezed offers better flavor and freshness
- Fresh herbs so you can garnish your glass with fresh mint, a sprig of rosemary, or fresh basil
- Simple syrup, flavored syrups, or agave syrup if you want a sweeter drink
- Plenty of ice cubes
And while not required, adding ginger beer, ginger ale, coconut water, coconut milk, or cream of coconut opens up even more options.
Favorite Tools and Barware for Mocktails
While no special equipment is needed to make a great-tasting drink, these tools will help you make your favorite mocktail recipes with ease:
- Hand juicer or citrus squeezer
- Cocktail shaker or shaker set
- Bottle opener
- Fine mesh strainer or Hawthorne strainer
- Muddler
- Ice cube trays (if you prefer large cubes or novelty shapes)
Now you’re ready to mix up the perfect drink! Check out this list of over 30 of the best mocktail recipes!
Best Mocktail Recipes
Browse this list of refreshing mocktails for summer. They’re organized by flavor profile or drink type to help you find what you’re looking for.
Citrus Mocktails for Summer
Stock up on plenty of citrus fruits for these refreshing mocktails featuring lemon juice and lime juice.
Fruity Summer Mocktails and Sparkling Spritzers
Fresh fruit is a summer staple, so it’s no wonder so many mocktails include berries, watermelon, tropical fruits and more.
Summer Mocktails Inspired by Classic Cocktails
Craving something classic that never goes out of style? Try these mocktails that put a non-alcoholic spin on familiar favorites.
Mojito-Style Summer Mocktails
Margarita-Style Summer Mocktails
Blended and Frozen Summer Mocktails
And finally, don’t forget to have fun with frozen drinks! You can easily blend up an alcohol-free version of the classic strawberry daiquiri, pina colada, and more.
I hope you enjoy this collection of the best summer mocktails and non-alcoholic cocktails. Some of mine are featured but I have a few new favorites, too!
As always, thanks for stopping by the Street Smart Nutrition blog. Cheers to more fearlessly nourishing meals!
