Cranberry Orange Smash Mocktail Recipe

Master how to make the best homemade Cranberry Orange Smash Mocktail with this easy alcohol-free recipe. Fresh cranberries muddled with orange and rosemary create a perfectly balanced non-alcoholic drink that's ideal for holiday gatherings. This refreshing virgin cocktail delivers sophisticated flavor without the alcohol!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

5 mins

Cook Time:

Serves:

1 mocktail

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">60g fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium orange, cut into quarters</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml fresh lemon juice</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml cranberry juice (unsweetened)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">20ml maple syrup (or simple syrup)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 sprig rosemary (plus extra for garnish)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120ml sparkling water</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Ice cubes or crushed ice</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Orange peel twist for garnish</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

🔥 Calories:

🥑 Fat:

🧈 Saturated Fat:

🍞 Carbohydrates:

🍭 Sugar:

🍗 Protein:

🫀 Cholesterol:

🧂 Sodium:

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Muddler</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Rocks glass</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Fine mesh strainer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Add the fresh cranberries, two orange quarters (squeezed to release juice), and rosemary sprig to a cocktail shaker. Gently muddle until cranberries are crushed and release their juices, but not completely pulverized. The goal is to extract the essential oils and flavors while maintaining some texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Add the cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and maple syrup to the shaker. Fill halfway with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. This aeration and dilution are crucial for balancing the tart cranberry flavor with the sweet and citrus elements.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Fill your rocks glass with fresh ice (crushed ice works beautifully and creates a more festive look). Fine-strain the mixture into the glass to catch the cranberry solids and rosemary leaves while allowing the vibrant red liquid to pour through.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Top with sparkling water, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. Gently stir once with a bar spoon to integrate flavors without losing the effervescence that lifts the drink's aroma.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Garnish with fresh cranberries, a fresh rosemary sprig, and an orange peel twist. For extra aromatics, gently express the orange peel's oils over the surface of the drink by giving it a quick twist before placing it on the glass. The essential oils will create a delicate citrus aroma that enhances each sip.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Cranberry Orange Smash Mocktail Recipe?

This vibrant mocktail combines fresh cranberries, orange, lemon juice, cranberry juice, maple syrup, rosemary, and sparkling water. Garnished with extra cranberries, rosemary sprigs and an orange peel twist for a festive presentation.

How to make Cranberry Orange Smash Mocktail Recipe at home?

Learn how to make Cranberry Orange Smash Mocktail at home by muddling fresh cranberries with orange and rosemary, then adding citrus juices and maple syrup. Shake with ice, strain into a rocks glass, top with sparkling water and garnish with cranberries, rosemary and an orange twist for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Can I prepare this cranberry mocktail in advance for parties?

Yes! Prepare the base mixture (cranberry, orange, juices and syrup) up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. When serving, simply strain into glasses, add fresh ice and top with sparkling water. Add garnishes just before serving to maintain their freshness.

What's the best technique for muddling cranberries in a mocktail?

Gently crush cranberries just until they burst and release juices, but aren't completely pulverised. Use a wooden muddler with a flat end, applying moderate pressure with a twisting motion. This extracts flavour while maintaining some texture for the perfect balance.

Is there a way to make this festive drink less tart?

Absolutely! Increase the maple syrup to 30ml for more sweetness, use sweetened cranberry juice instead of unsweetened, or add 15ml of orange juice. You could also substitute some cranberries with raspberries for a milder tartness while maintaining the beautiful ruby colour.

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