Candy Cane Mocktail Recipe
Introduction
This Candy Cane Mocktail captures the spirit of the holidays in a refreshing glass. With the bright cranberry juice and a hint of peppermint, it’s a festive and flavorful drink perfect for any holiday gathering. Adding crushed candy canes on the rim gives it a playful, seasonal touch that’s sure to delight your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup lemon-lime soda
- ½ tsp peppermint extract (use sparingly)
- Crushed candy canes for rimming
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the glasses by dipping the rims into water or honey, then coat them with crushed candy canes to create a festive rim.
- Step 2: In a pitcher, combine the cranberry juice and peppermint extract, stirring gently to blend the flavors.
- Step 3: Fill the prepared glasses with ice cubes, then pour the cranberry and peppermint mixture over the ice.
- Step 4: Top each glass with lemon-lime soda and stir gently to mix everything without losing the fizz.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, use sparkling water instead of lemon-lime soda.
- If peppermint extract is too strong, reduce the amount to ¼ tsp and adjust to taste.
- Add a sprig of fresh mint or a few whole cranberries for garnish to enhance the holiday look.
Storage
This mocktail is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its fizzy texture. If necessary, prepare the cranberry and peppermint mixture ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the soda, ice, and crushed candy cane rims just before serving for the best experience.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this mocktail ahead of time?
You can prepare the cranberry and peppermint mixture in advance and refrigerate it, but add the lemon-lime soda and ice right before serving to keep the drink bubbly and fresh.
What if I don’t have candy canes for the rim?
If you don’t have candy canes, crushed peppermint candies or colored sugar sprinkles work well as alternatives. Simply rim the glasses the same way to add a festive touch.
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Candy Cane Mocktail Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Candy Cane Mocktail is a festive holiday drink bursting with cranberry juice’s tartness and a refreshing hint of peppermint. Rimming the glasses with crushed candy canes adds a playful and colorful touch, while the lemon-lime soda provides a delightful fizz, making it a perfect non-alcoholic beverage for Christmas parties and celebrations.
Ingredients
Mocktail Ingredients
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- ½ cup lemon-lime soda
- ½ tsp peppermint extract (use sparingly)
- Ice cubes
Garnish
- Crushed candy canes for rimming
Instructions
- Prepare the Glasses: Dip the rims of two glasses into water or honey to moisten them, then gently press the rims into crushed candy canes to coat evenly, creating a festive and sweet candy cane rim.
- Mix the Mocktail Base: In a pitcher, combine 1 cup cranberry juice with ½ teaspoon peppermint extract. Stir well to blend the flavors thoroughly, ensuring the peppermint isn’t overpowering.
- Add Ice to Glasses: Fill each prepared glass with ice cubes to chill the drink and enhance its refreshment.
- Pour the Base: Distribute the cranberry and peppermint mixture evenly into the glasses over the ice.
- Top with Soda and Serve: Gently pour ½ cup lemon-lime soda into the glasses to add a light fizz. Stir gently to combine, then serve immediately for a refreshing holiday treat.
Notes
- Use peppermint extract sparingly as it is very strong; adjust according to taste.
- For added sweetness, rim the glass with honey before applying crushed candy canes.
- This mocktail is best served immediately to retain the soda’s fizz.
- For a slushy version, blend the cranberry juice and peppermint extract with ice before pouring into glasses.
- Can be adapted for larger servings by scaling ingredients proportionally.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Candy Cane Mocktail, Holiday Drink, Non-Alcoholic Cocktail, Festive Drink, Christmas Beverage, Cranberry Mocktail, Peppermint Drink
