This post was originally published on December 5th, 2016. Updated on December 15th, 2020
‘Tis the Season to Sparkle
Even though this year may not bring big, lavish cocktail hours, office holiday parties, or large gatherings with friends and family, it doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to low-key parties at home complete with cocktails – or in this case, healthy mocktails – and Zoom gatherings. This stunningly refreshing alternative to sugary boozy cocktails is perfect for anyone looking to avoid alcohol or just wants a festive beverage without the fuzzy head. Did we also mention that it comes with the side benefit of being gut-healthy and packed with antioxidants? We think that’s even more reason to raise a glass of this Sparkling Cranberry Kombucha Mocktail this holiday season. This post contains affiliate links that won’t change your price but will share some commission.
Ingredients for Cranberry Kombucha Mocktails
Kombucha – We recommend ginger, cranberry, or ‘original’ flavors but feel free to get creative with other flavors. You’re the boss! Cranberry juice – Choose 100% unsweetened cranberry juice if you want to keep this low in sugar and Whole30-friendly. Most cranberry juices are blends of other juices like apple or grape – some even have added sugar or alternative sweeteners – which means they can pack a sugary punch. Fresh ginger – Fresh ginger gives non-alcoholic cocktails like this a slightly spicy zing that’s reminiscent of the sensation you get at the back of your throat when drinking alcohol. It’s also good for digestion and boosting the immune system Fresh rosemary – The piney flavor of rosemary adds a somewhat savory yet refreshing twist to lightly sweet kombucha mocktails like this one. It also adds a festive little flair that’s perfect for the holiday season Fresh cranberries – Cranberries and their juices are a good source of vitamin C and other potent antioxidants. While you’re not very likely to munch on raw cranberries, they make a beautiful and festive garnish for drinks Ice
What can I substitute for kombucha in mocktail recipes?
If you’re not a fan of kombucha or don’t have any on hand, here are few substitutes you can use:
Ginger Beer – Ginger beer is a non-alcoholic brew made with ginger, sugar, and carbonated water. It’s got a sharper, cleaner flavor than ginger ale soda. Look for it in the beverage aisle of grocery stores or with the mixers at liquor stores. Because ginger beer is sweetened with sugar, it is not Whole30-friendly. Ginger Soda – Think ginger ale here. Sodas are typically flavored with natural or artificial flavors and the sweeteners can range from corn syrup to cane sugar to natural and artificial sweeteners so be sure to read the labels to find the one that suits you. Note: Soda is not Whole30-friendly Water Kefir – Water kefir is a probiotic-rich beverage similar to kombucha but instead of tea, it’s brewed with water, and flavors are added after brewing. Read the label to check for added sweeteners as many are sweetened with stevia which is not Whole30-friendly.
Mocktails are just as cool as cocktails
With this snazzy glass of cranberry kombucha goodness in hand, you’ll look cooler than ever – and you’ll be less likely to do something you might regret later. Besides that, mocktail recipes are also great for guests who are pregnant or otherwise abstain from alcohol but who still want something fun and fizzy to sip. Kids love them too! Let them help by muddling the ginger and fresh rosemary together with a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon and filling the glasses with ice. Garnish with a thin slice of ginger, a few cranberries, and a sprig of fresh rosemary for extra flavor and flair.
Looking for more mocktail recipes? Try one of these!
Low-Sugar Strawberry Kombucha Cocktail (or Mocktail) Cucumber-Basil Kombucha Mule
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